Albergaria Vila Lido

Just south of Portimão is Praia da Rocha, a gorgeous expanse of broad beach flanked by colorful rocky cliffs. Just across the road from the beach, with lovely views and easy access to the sea, is Vila Lido, a bed and breakfast that offers one of the best values along the Algarve. Resident managers, Julia and Frank, are lovely and with a strong restaurant background are able to offer guests delicious local and international dishes. The bright-blue-shuttered villa is whitewashed, with quaintly carved chimneys jutting from its red-tile roof. Broad stone steps lead to the arched entryway where a tiny plaque gives the only indication that this is other than a private residence. A sunny sitting room with polished parquet floors opens onto a verandah at the front of the house, where you enjoy a sumptuous breakfast. French doors lead from there into a charming breakfast room with hand-painted tile walls, carved ceiling, massive fireplace, and delicate furniture. A few of the bedrooms have decorative fireplaces, and although the furnishings are modern, all retain a genuine old-world flavor with their sculpted ceilings, tall windows, spacious dimensions, and solid chestnut doors. Some premium rooms have terraces and ocean views, though for a seaside vacation we prefer rooms 1 and 2 with their private garden access and little patios.