Sao Rafael Atlantico is a contemporary four-pearl hotel with a scenic spot overlooking the sea, about a 10-minute drive west of Albufeira's old town. Style is a major step up from much of its Albufeira competition, though fees can add up. The hotel has direct access to Sao Rafael Beach and also features two outdoor pools, a children's pool, kids' club, fitness center, and spa with thermal pools, sauna, and Turkish bath. The hotel also has several restaurants and bars. The 149 upscale rooms have a simple, minimalistic look, though we spotted some wear. They come with minibars, Nespresso machines, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Travelers looking for a less expensive hotel in this area might consider the nearby Baia Grande, though it's more dated.
Sao Rafael Atlantico is a contemporary four-pearl hotel with a scenic spot overlooking the sea, about a 10-minute drive west of Albufeira's old town. Style is a major step up from much of its Albufeira competition, though fees can add up. The hotel has direct access to Sao Rafael Beach and also features two outdoor pools, a children's pool, kids' club, fitness center, and spa with thermal pools, sauna, and Turkish bath. The hotel also has several restaurants and bars. The 149 upscale rooms have a simple, minimalistic look, though we spotted some wear. They come with minibars, Nespresso machines, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Travelers looking for a less expensive hotel in this area might consider the nearby Baia Grande, though it's more dated.
The Baia Grande is a solid upper-middle-range resort hotel overlooking the Atlantic, two miles from the center of Albufeira. Although the hotel is a little off the beaten track, there is a beach within a 10-minute walk, and there's a free bus into town. Facilities are extensive enough, and include two restaurants, bars, and pools (there's no fitness center or spa). Rooms are clean with modern bathrooms and some have ocean views, but they're not particularly large and decor is bland. Guests might also want to consider the similar Vila Gale Atlantico.
The Baia Grande is a solid upper-middle-range resort hotel overlooking the Atlantic, two miles from the center of Albufeira. Although the hotel is a little off the beaten track, there is a beach within a 10-minute walk, and there's a free bus into town. Facilities are extensive enough, and include two restaurants, bars, and pools (there's no fitness center or spa). Rooms are clean with modern bathrooms and some have ocean views, but they're not particularly large and decor is bland. Guests might also want to consider the similar Vila Gale Atlantico.
