Prainha Clube

Renovated in 2010, Prainha Clube is a self-contained upscale apartment complex within a larger resort that includes the sprawling Prainha Village. The hotel takes it's name from the small but interesting Prainha Beach, sheltered between rocky coves below the picturesque cliffs. Above the beach, wide manicured lawns spread out between the villas and terra-cotta roofs of the village facilities toward the more modern, blocky white Clube building, which is studded with south-facing balconies. Most guests are tourists, and the property attracts families and couples alike. All the rooms have kitchenettes, making this a solid option for those looking to self-cater; the Pestana Alvor Park Hotel also has kitchenette-equipped, apartment-style rooms, but it's farther from the beach and more dated. The beachfront, modern Pestana Dom Joao Villas (part of Pestana Dom Joao II) are worth considering, but they're typically pricier. Families should note that the Pestana Alvor Praia and Pestana Dom Joao II both have a kids' club, which is lacking here. 

Prainha Clube is set back from the cliffs above Prainha Beach, closer to the road that leads into Alvor. It's about an eight-minute drive (or half-hour walk) into downtown Alvor, where seafood restaurants, shops, and nightlife cater to tourists. The old fishing town also has historic attractions such as Alvor Castle and the 16th-­century Matriz Church. It's about an eight-minute drive east to Praia da Rocha, where bars, restaurants, and craft shops line a strip off the beach. There are several popular golf courses in the area within a 20-minute drive, and downtown Portimao is about a 15-minute drive away.  Expect a 50-minute drive to Faro Airport.

The hotel's 61 Studios and One- and Two-Bedroom Apartments are all set far back on the property from the cliffs, but most still have views of the sea from their furnished balconies. Other units and lower-level apartments with terraces have views of the pool or village grounds. The sparkling white-on-white decor has color accents with pinstriped chairs, and some units have splashes of red or blue wall tiles. One- and Two-Bedroom Apartments have sitting areas with white couches and tables in airy rooms with gauzy curtains. Flat-screen TVs come standard, but Wi-Fi costs extra. The kitchenettes have white-marble counters with stovetops, microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers. Bathrooms come with bidets and shower/tub combos. Note that there are extra fees for amenities such as hairdryers and safes, and the hotel even tacks on a fee for leaving unwashed dishes/utensils. 

Guests can access the unique Prainha beach via a walking path from the hotel or by taking an elevator that's built into the cliff. Up above, the idyllic saltwater Atlantic Pool looks out over the ocean and is surrounded by a sundeck and a massive sunbathing lawn. Lounge chairs around this pool can be rented out and there's a seasonal snack bar. There's another large outdoor pool near the main building along with a kids' pool. It's free to access the indoor pool and hot tub within the Thalgo Prainha Health Club, but there are fees to use the rest of the facilities, including the huge attached fitness center, The space has two rooms full of cardio machines, weight-training machines, and free weights, and a third room that's set up as an open studio with space to move. There are outdoor tennis courts that can be accessed for a fee. The large spa has numerous treatment rooms for the usual range of massages and body pampering, along with a Turkish bath and sauna. For dining, the Beach Bar Canico Restaurant is open seasonally and has fantastic views over the sheltered beach, serving grilled fish and cocktails. Covering Italian favorites, Pizzaria Miss Pasta is also seasonal, while the main Prainha Clube Restaurant stays open year-round (breakfast not included, though half- and full-board rates are available). Other amenities across the property and throughout the Prainha Village include a small grocery market, two playgrounds, a volleyball field, and another outdoor pool.