John S
29. elokuuta 2024
Let’s start with the good bits. Vale d’Oliveiras is based out in the country which makes it a good spot if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, and it’s just a 5-10 min taxi from nearby beaches (taxis are very cheap here - I spent usually only 5/6 euro to go to the beach). The staff were very friendly and helpful on arrival. The standard double room I was allocated was a very good size, very clean, and was equipped with a balcony, a widescreen tv, and a very powerful power shower. The bathroom itself was a bit dated, but perfectly adequate. The air con was extremely good (which is a must in August!). In terms of the facilities, the spa is nice (albeit a bit basic in terms of extras such as relaxation rooms). Great selection of treatments and the staff are fantastic. One of the best massages I have ever had! Now the bad bits… 1. The food was extremely basic and bland. Not 5 star by any stretch of the imagination. Kicking off with breakfast, I would compare it to a Premier Inn breakfast - virtually the same buffet every morning, with only minor changes. The eggs, sausages and bacon lacked flavour, and some of the pastries/cakes they served were virtually inedible/very dry. If I was paying for a basic hotel, it would have been OK - but when they call it ‘five star’ it’s very disappointing The evening food was disgraceful. On the website they make it look like it is a la carte - it’s not. It’s a basic buffet just like at breakfast. Again the food lacked flavour and the selection was not good. The ‘waiters’ seem very unhappy in their jobs, some of them looked downright miserable. It’s difficult to get served as they’re rushing around collecting plates to make room for other guests. I felt like I was in a cheap ‘all you can eat’ restaurant down the back alley of some busy city…I would advise against dressing up too, I felt most out of place in a shirt and chinos…! 2. The facilities were very disappointing, save for the spa I mentioned above. The main pool simply does not have enough sun loungers, so unless you are willing to get up at the crack of dawn and throw your towel down to ‘reserve’ a spot, you will not find a spot. Very disappointing that I couldnt find a lounger. For a 5 star hotel I would expect at least one more pool outside (perhaps for adults only) Luckily I had the money for taxis out to the nearby beaches, if not I wold have had to go to the rather sorry looking inside pool or I’d be in my bedroom reading..! The tennis courts are very outdated and need some love. The gym is small and basic. 3. Apart from the lobby and restaurant, the whole hotel needs a face lift. It looks tired. The paint is coming off, there are damp patches, everything looks tired and in need of a spruce. Not great for a ‘five star’ hotel…! 4. There were a few niggles with the staff. For example in my room there was complimentary water available. Which is good considering there isnt a nearby shop for miles (you would have to get a cab for 5-
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