This was a very relaxing and peaceful holiday. Tom and Eithne (hope I spelt that right) couldn't have been more helpful, both before and during our 11 days there. Communications were great, directions and key instructions perfect - having had stress elsewhere with keys and access, at this villa there were no worries, just as it should be! The villa is situated on a very quiet cul-de-sac halfway up a hill a few hundred yards to the west of Vale de Parra, with plenty of parking, one other villa behind it up the hill, and a few more below it. Sea views over Salgados from the pool and the upstairs balcony, a good breeze due to the height, and so peaceful. The main road from Albufeira towards Armacao de Pera is well screened, over 100 yards away, and not exactly a busy road anyway so minimal traffic noise by the pool or at night. There's loads of shade on the patio, and plenty of space for sunbathing. Villa is large, split level, with a bathroom for each bedroom and a huge lounge/dining room, although we ate out of doors in the shaded part of the patio. Beds are comfortable, air conditioning in bedrooms and lounge enough to turn the rooms into freezers - top tip - set the AC to run on low speed at about 27 degrees if it's boiling hot and the room will actually be a comfortable 21 overnight. Good plentiful solar hot water, well equipped kitchen, lounge and good wifi and a wide TV channel selection. Eithne came in to clean twice over the 11 days - it's very clean and well cared for. Pool man was there twice a week, gardener likewise. Pool was great, large and clean, with lights at night, and is very securely gated from the villa if you have small children. Villa itself is secure and well fenced, with an alarm system with remote monitoring which does work - I set it off by mistake. Villa downsides : I'm struggling to be honest - no orange juicer is all I can think of! Nearest beaches are Gale area and Salgados - you'll need a car. Our favourite beach is Arrifes, ideal for swimming as the waves are subdued by rocks further out to sea. Armacao is nice, old town Albufeira likewise - Shalom 2 ribs are the best I've found anywhere, plus they just keep on coming - all you can eat for under ÂŁ15. V-D-P is a quiet village, with a small but varied selection of bars and restaurants from cheap to high end. Really enjoyed it here - we haven't often said this but we would definitely return to this villa. Recommended - a big thank you to Tom and Eithne! A&D, 7/17
