If you're in the market for a vacation that involves little beyond eating, drinking, and relaxing (and, really, who isn't?), then take a look at our favorite all-inclusive resorts in the Portuguese beach town of Alvor.
The Alvor Baia Hotel Apartamento is probably the best option in the area for those seeking an all-inclusive vacation, though it must be said that the 402-room hotel doesn't set the bar particularly high, since its food options can get repetitive and drinks are only available during bar hours, not around the clock. All of the apartment-style rooms have kitchenettes and large furnished balconies with views of the neighborhood or the pool. The hotel also has a huge outdoor pool and kiddy pool and a sleek spa with an indoor pool, Turkish bath, and sauna.
The all-inclusive, mid-range Pestana Delfim Hotel sits off the beach near a stretch of coast that's crowded with other Pestana Hotel Group properties. This one is just behind the upscale Pestana Alvor Praia, giving guests relatively easy beach access, even though the hotel isn't on the water. Facilities abound, including a large outdoor pool, tennis courts, game room, and a kids' club, but the whole property is thoroughly dated. Most of the 312 rooms have private balconies with sea views, but the garish old decor and tube TVs aren't up to advertised four-star standards.
There's a relaxed vibe at this mid-range hotel, where guests can make use of two pools as well as all-inclusive food and drink at the restaurant and two bars. The common areas are colorful and airy, but signs of age are apparent everywhere, from the lobby's worn orange armchairs to the old tube TVs in the rooms. All of the 155 rooms come with private balconies, but extra fees for the use of safes and minibars are a downside.
The value-oriented, 107-room Luna Clube Brisamar is the most affordable all-inclusive option in the area. For families on a budget, the price may be right, but the dated one-bedroom apartments are the only type available. They have kitchenettes and balconies, but also old tube TVs; the air conditioners are mounted in the living rooms where they can't cool the bedrooms in hot weather. The outdoor pool has a big sundeck with a bar, and the all-inclusive rates make meals easy with kids, but with just the one buffet restaurant and lounge bar, there aren't many choices.