Jupiter Albufeira Hotel

Open since 1978, this hotel is looking every bit its age. That impression starts right away, in the hotel's huge lobby, which feels empty, with the long white front desk along one wall and a tile floor stretching out in front. A couple of potted trees sit in front of the reception desk, but that's about it for decoration and there's little atmosphere at all. Upholstered stools surround the big square columns, and guests could perch there, but it isn't particularly inviting. A few white sofas and chairs provide seating along the white walls. The style is Moroccan and has a distinct 1980s edge that's not ironic or pleasant, In fact, the entire hotel is in need of an update. On the plus side, the views from the terrace out back overlook the colorful town and the sea in the distance, providing a spectacular view. The hotel currently draws mostly non-fussy couples and families looking for low rates in a decent location. The hotel was promising renovations in 2016, so check ahead to see if those have materialized. 

This hotel is situated in a quiet residential area about a 10-minute drive outside the center of Albufeira. In addition to a few hotels around it, there is also a nearby supermarket and a lively Irish pub. There isn't much to see or do in the immediate area, so plan on having a car or availing the free shuttle if you want to explore the area. Zoomarine Algarve marine park is about a 15-minute drive. Faro Airport is about 40 minutes southeast by car, and it will take about two hours and 15 minutes to reach Lisbon.

From a style perspective, there's not much to like here and the rooms are entirely dated. Furniture, fabrics and upholstery all look tired, and color schemes of orange and pink are past their prime. Decor is minimal, which doesn't help the atmosphere, and there's no artwork on the plain white walls. In some rooms, flat-screen TVs are awkwardly placed on desks in front of the mirror. Other rooms still have tube-style TVs. Bathrooms feature double sinks with ample counter space, but they need to be updated as well. White tiled shower/tub combos and walk-in showers had mildew stains when we visited, and fixtures are dated, but bathrooms do offer hairdryers, bidets, and toiletries. Suites are larger with separate bedrooms and living spaces, but they have the same dated issues as the rooms. The best feature of the rooms are balconies or terraces, and some have beautiful views of the city and the sea, or mountains in the distance. Some also overlook the pool. Sadly, however, they are furnished with cheap plastic chairs and small tables. Safes and mini-fridges can be requested in rooms for a fee. There is no Wi-Fi in rooms. 

Restaurante Montechoro serves buffet breakfasts and dinners daily, with a focus on Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine that gets mixed reviews. Breakfast is included in all rates, and half-board and all-inclusive plans are available (though there are restrictions). The space features high ceilings and arches, white walls and ceilings, tile floors, and wooden tables. Bar Bambu, by the pool, is a bright, airy space that's open year-round. Bar Almohade is a Moorish-style space with sofas for seating and a billiards table and flat-screen TVs for entertainment. In high season, live entertainment performs there. 

A round outdoor pool is surrounded by a wide pool deck lined with lounge chairs shaded by umbrellas and cabanas. A grassy lawn and tall trees beyond the deck add atmosphere. A smaller kids' pool is adjacent. There's also an indoor kids' club with activities for the little ones. The health center has its own reception area and offers eight tennis courts, a squash court, and a massage room. Unfortunately, there's a fee to use any of the fitness features.

Events space on the top floor can accommodate up to 1,100 people for business meetings or social events. An internet corner provides two computers for guests to use, and there's free Wi-Fi in the lobby and and ground-floor bars. While there is a shuttle to town and the beach, it doesn't run on Sundays.