About Solar de Sao Joao
Located centrally in the resort area of Albufeira, Solar de Sao Joao is a complex of self-catering apartments with an outdoor pool area.
Each self-catering apartment features a kitchenette equipped with a microwave and kettle, as well as a private balcony. Satellite TV is also provided.
The hotel's 24 front desk offers car and bicycle rental, and free onsite parking is available. Guests can enjoy a stroll in the gardens or relaxing by the pool.
Solar de Sao Joao offers a poolside bar which serves snacks and drinks, while there's a separate breakfast room. Guests also have self-catering facilities.
Albufeira Strip, with its restaurants and bars, is located 250 yards from the hotel, while the Praia da Oura beach is a 5-minute walk away.
Positive Reviews
positive:
Central location in Albufeira.
You'd be hard-pressed to find a more convenient spot in Albufeira - the complex is located a very short walk from both the main Strip and beach. You can reach the Old Town in 5 minutes by car, though guests recommend the cute tourist train.
positive:
Attractive and relaxing pool area.
Guests say that the pool is kept well-maintained and clean, and there are plenty of loungers and seating on the surrounding terrace. It's a nice area for children to play too, and you can keep an eye on them while relaxing.
positive:
Surprisingly quiet for the location.
You may think that since it's located just yards from the Strip, there would be lots of street noise. However, the hotel is set back from the road, so noise is limited, and most guests seem to enjoy a quiet stay.
Negative Reviews
negative:
Apartments are in need of a revamp.
While the apartments are spacious and reasonably comfortable, some guests say that they're outdated and shabby. The beds are pretty basic, and guests who ask for a double room seem to get two single beds pushed together.
negative:
Some amenities are missing.
In the heat of an Algarve summer, you'll really notice the lack of air con, which might be more of an issue than the lack of Wi-Fi. You can't get either in the apartments, though Wi-Fi is available in some public areas, and you can rent fans.
negative:
Hefty deposits on check-in.
Guests report having to stump up hefty deposits in addition to payment when they check in. This money is returnable, as long as no damage is done to the room, but it doesn't make for the best start to a holiday.