Vila Petra - Albufeira, Portugal 

We stayed at the Vila Petra hotel on a self-catering basis via First Choice. Having stayed in 5 different hotels in Albufeira, I can confirm that this is simply the best in every meaning of the word. Don't miss out on Mr Menu - drink in Stones Bar where you will be plied with free alcohol. One thing you must not miss is the 'Sizzling Stone' - turn left at 'Wild & Co' and you will find this restaurant where you are given a slab of raw meat on a heated stone, which you then cook yourself - it is not only a phenomenal taste sensation, but is also reasonably priced. As far as Vila Petra is concerned, the place itself is immaculate, everything looks brand new, all mod-cons - dishwasher is a god-send, tv, dvd player, cannot fault the place. Seriously, it's that good, I wouldn't stay anywhere else in Albufeira.

My husband and 9 year old daughter booked almost a year ago for this resort but our accomodation was changed less than a week before departure to the Vila Petra. The apartments themselves were fab. I've never stayed anywhere with such a well equipt kitchen and good storage space. Found the reception staff very good, one day we stayed in the room and hung the 'do not disturb' sign on the door as my daughter was asleep and they phoned straight away to check we were ok and if we needed anything. Cannot comment on the restaurant as we did not use it. The bar staff were also good and the maids did a great job. The pool rules are a bit strict for kids as they can't play with inflatables and there is no other entertainment so I would say it's not ideal for kids over 3 or under 16. It was amusing to watch the towels being removed from loungers but this soon tailed off and there were a few chancers back to claiming loungers and not turning up for hours. Very annoying but seems to be the done thing everywhere. Restaurants on the strip are plentiful and I'd recommend Mary Annes for traditional British food. The steak pie is unbeatable. If you like a pizza, try Senhor Frogs. Loved the resort but probably wouldn't return to Vila Petra unless I was going without a child.