10/10
It was the perfect holiday for us and our toddler. The booking information we were given was detailed and accurate. The owners were happy to help us with all the queries we had. The apartment is stunning and exceptionally well maintained - it felt as though it was brand new for us! The owners seem to have provided everything you could possibly think of needing on your holiday. The apartment manager offered a very personal service and was friendly and welcoming. Food and drink that we found in the kitchen was much appreciated after our journey was a lovely touch. We loved looking out at the view of the swimming pool with waterfall and quiet gardens, down across the little railway track (our son lived train watching), across the ever changing ria and out to the island beach and sea. The pool was very quiet and we more or less had it to ourselves whenever we used it. The village centre is a short 10 minute walk away over the small train station bridge. In the pretty, fishing village, which feels Portuguese and not overly 'touristy', you find many handy amenities - shops, cafés, restaurants and banks/cash machines. Here you also find play areas, the harbour, sometimes a bric-a-brac market. Plus, you will find the first of two blue flag beaches - the quieter and toddler friendly 'town beach' which has some beach bars and toilets - we were impressed that there was even disabled access into the water. From the harbour area you can catch a small ferry or water taxis to the island beach (great fun for a small child!). The island beach was like paradise to me - I loved swimming in there, watching shoals of small fish. Again there are beach bars and toilets on the beach. We really enjoyed the relaxed seafront cafés for coffees and small meals, the village square has a wonderful tapas restaurant and we found great 'posher' restaurants too. All the Portuguese people we met were brilliant with our son and so friendly. We have already recommended the apartment to friends and some will be visiting soon!