Monte Santo Resort

Have stayed here many times with the kids…can’t be faulted

We had the most wonderful and relaxing stay at Monte Santo Resort. The staff are so lovely, facilities are great, this includes a very well stocked kitchen in our apartment (I have to cook all my meals due to dietary requirements. I avoid gluten, dairy, soy, corn and grains- tricky!). However, breakfast was included, and i was able to have a few things for breakfast, which I was very grateful for. (Gluten-free options available) We loved everything from the moment we stepped in and had a very warm welcome to the minute we left. Parking wasn't an issue. The resort is nice and quiet. (We did visit out of season, which worked for us well) Our apartment view was amazing. We enjoyed the beautiful pool outside as well as the steam room, sauna, and indoor pool on those less sunny days. It was my husbands birthday whilst there, and he received a complimentary bday cake as well as a bottle of bubbles. That's a very thoughtful and kind touch (maybe a gluten-free option could be considered). Our housekeeping ladies were brilliant - we really are so appreciative to EVERYONE here. Numerous grocery shops are nearby. We had a car, so it was easy to get around. We walked to Carvoeiro a few times (approx 20 mins at pace but it is not flat!), but, beautiful views once you're near. I do think we will be back! If I was to make a couple of comments/ observations, these would be: - the only thing I would have loved to have in the kitchen is a non stick pan (everything else was there and of good quality) - some areas of the resort, including the rooms, look little tired in places - this wasn't an issue for us, but a refresh might be a good idea in the future - the resort isn't too accessible for those with moderate to severe mobility issues. Speaking to one of the guests who was in a wheelchair, he really struggled to enjoy his holiday fully due to lack of accessibility.

The suite I stayed in was perfect. I could have used the catering facilities to be self-catered if I'd really wanted to. But why would you? Carvoeiro is 25 mins or so down the road and has a wonderful range of eateries. There was enough space in my room to focus on truly relaxing, but the hotel's facilities meant I didn't spend a lot of time in it! The pool area was to die for, catching the sun throughout the whole day, and the indoor facilities (gym, sauna and pool) were great on the one day when the weather wasn't so good. I can't write a review without mentioning the staff! José Boto and team were just wonderful. They were very kind and welcoming to a solo traveller like me - offering local recommendations and a smile at every stage. It was my birthday during the stay and the team went an extra mile by wishing me the best and delivering a special gift to my room. This was very thoughtful and left a lovely impression.

We loved Monte Santo, it's classy & calm but still has all amenities like kids club, poolside waiter service, room service, daily cleaning. You could probably let the location put you off as it's about 20 minute walk to the beach but its actually so much nicer than the streets off from the beach. Taxi's generally cost under 5 euro & arrived within minutes of booking on Uber (we travelled in mid may so I'm sure its busier in peak seasons) before we arrived I had read some reviews that the place needed some minor redecoration or fixing up - I can say it was all done & everything was perfect. Obviously its not a chef standard kitchen in the suites and townhouses but everything you could possibly need, a functioning washing machine, dishwasher, hob & cutlery etc. Staff couldn't be more attentive & friendly. The pool is luxurious, the pool restaurant and bar is elegant & the gym is spacious. All the changing areas and restrooms are really nice too - A higher standard than what you'd expect from resorts similarly priced / located. Spa looked (and smelled) great, we didn't find the time to use it this time but would next time! We had a 2 bed suite & it's really spacious for a family of 3/4. We did a local pirate ship tour from Portimao, got a Taxi which was cheap & it was one of the best things we've done, the staff were so friendly, it wasn't cheesy but still great fun, took us into the local caves on smaller boats & the surroundings were incredible. Would highly recommend.

Comfortable beds. Good showers. Has indoor pool and tennis court. Location - Carvoeiro short walk away (bear in mind steep climb back which is fine for those who are able/have average fitness). Really friendly staff.