Vila Gaivota - Ferragudo, Portugal 

We have never been to Portugal before, and decided for our 30th Wedding Anniversary, we'd like to spend a week, relaxing in the sun and see another country we have not been to before. Scanning the web, we came upon Ferragudo, and Vila Gaitor, It sounded just what we wanted so booked a One Bedroom Appartment. When we arrived, we were surprised to find we'd been upgraded to a 2 Bedroom Townhouse!! The Patio or balconies never had a sea view - but the gardens were lovely and well looked after, and it was peaceful !! As I am Disabled, with a bad leg, the location was not that great, because it was hilly and away from Ferragudo Village, we did venture into the village by bus on our second day, which was lovely to see the fishermen chatting and bring in the nets, but getting back to the complex was a task, we found out to late, that we had been standing in the wrong place for the bus, so missed it, then found out the next one was in 2 hours, so we had to get a taxi !! So next day we had a Hire car delivered!! A definate must, just to see the West Coast, we'd definately stay that side next time, beautiful bays and small villages, a srfer paradise...if you surf ! The Staff were all friendly, and we'd definately go back to this complex ....but hire a car for pick up a Faro Airport first !!!

Just read, "Double Booking happening!" Jan&Steve, Shepperton, England Sep 19, 2006: and thought I'd add that this happened at Vila Gaivota to my wife and I in Fall 2005. We were in our suite one week when the water failed one morning. We were told it could not be resolved for 2 or 3 days so we would have to move (for our 2nd week). We did move, with no help from the hotel. When I checked out the suite that afternoon others were there, drinking beer and making supper etc. The front desk staff claimed no knowledge and the person who had us move had left for the day and was unavailable all week - I grew tired of looking. This was our second time to Vila Gaivota and will be our last. Have to say its the only rude or annoying behaviour I've experienced in Portugal.