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Review 242: Owner, Villa dos Arcos

www.vilad.com

Not Recommended
Review by Jan from Switzerland

2bed/2bath house in Algarve, Portugal

When

May 2002, 1 week

Location

Villa Dos Arcos was located in the small village of Figueira, about 8 miles West of Lagos. It was in a beautiful area, full of hiking/biking trails. Many fabulous beaches were within very close proximity. The Villa was in the tiny town and you lived like the locals. It was very peaceful and quiet, with the wind blowing and the air smelling of spice.

Nearby Amenities

One could walk to a couple of evening restaurants, but a car is necessary here. You would need a small car though, because the streets in the village are very narrow!

The House/Apartment

The house was in good shape. It was old and you could smell the dampness, but I think that would be unavoidable. It was tidy and everything worked.

Garden

There is a beautiful little outdoor area that was shared with a tiny cottage for 2. You also would share the pool, but the best thing was that the pool could be closed off from the outdoor area --- a must for toddlers! You are allowed to pick the flowers and they were growing in abundance.

Furnishings/Cleanliness/Living Areas

The furniture was in good shape and suited to the apartment. It wasn't anything special, but it was fine.

Bedrooms/Bathrooms

The only complaint we have is that the beds were terrible! Only twins, but also uncomfortable. We left with backaches (and we have good backs!). The two bedrooms were fine otherwise. Cold tile floors so slippers are highly recommended -- but in the heat of summer...it could be nice!

Kitchen

The kitchen was usable and fine for people who are not "foodies". Pans were old and dented, but silverware and eating dishes were adequate.

Problems or Bonuses

There was a babysitter available several evenings. She was English and the daughter of the on-site representative. She did a wonderful job. Daily maid service was also very helpful.

Agency and Representatives (and price)

We were treated well by the person we booked from, as well as the on-site representative. Everyone spoke English. I was not too disappointed with Villa dos Arcos, but if they spent just a little money on improvement, it would be well worthwhile. No one has contacted us to see if we were satisfied. I find that a bit surprising.

Booked through www.holiday-rentals.com .

Do you recommend this vacation rental to others?

I would not stay here again simply because of the beds. I thought that this place was very affordable (at about $600/week), but expected better as far as kitchen equipment and beds. I can't recommend it mainly because of the beds (even for 'non-foodies').

Things to do in this area

This is a beautiful area. Figueira is near Salema, Lagos and Sagres. Fabulous beaches and wonderful hiking/biking trails. Mountain bikes would be a blast here! Also, very child friendly.

This review is the opinion of a Slow Travel member and not of slowtrav.com.

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