I've just returned from 12 days in Mid November at the Vilabranca site in Lagos. It has to be stated that I alway self cater and I'm not a big one for eating out - so there will be no comments on Dining Out but there's a good Intermarche Supermarket about five minutes away and 'in town' - three excellent markets.

The one bedroomed apartment was extremely reasonably priced and spacious (and at this time of year - well heated) and the staff (particularly Lai at reception) were extremely friendly and helpful (I locked myself out one evening and Lia - because reception closes at five - made the trip from home to resolve the situation).. This is apparently the first year that the apartments have been open during the 'winter' months and I had the place almost to myself (a good spot if you're there to write your first novel). If your looking for lots of amenities during the winter - forget it (there are two outdoors pools but a bit on the chilly side for me) - but if you want a decent, well provided (all the usual - microwave, cable TV, freezer etc - serviced every couple of days) apartment with easy access to the western (and Atlantic) beaches - I can definitely recommend Vilabranca.

Although Vilabranca is on the outskirts of Lagos (a good 15 minute walk into the old town), its in a tasteful area and very close to the 'new ring road' - my sat nav (not recently updated) - didn't know it existed). Just down the road - about a 10 minute walk - is the Porto de Mos beach - probably the best 'walking beach in the area (there are lots of pretty - photo op - beaches/coves on the Porta da Piedade side).

If you're there to see something of the area - there are numerous 'provided' and remote beaches on the stretch between Luz and Sagres (some access roads are graded gravel but most are sealed - occasionally you have to walk the final bit). If you make the journey to the Atlantic Coast - where the beaches are much wilder) - dont miss Castelejo and Cordoama - joined when the tides out - glorious walking - wild seas and stunning views!

Stayed here mid October in two 1 bed apartments for 2 nights at the bargain rate of £24 per night per apartment and we just loved it.

Reception staff were amazing and could not be more helpful and will organise all sorts from airport transfers (Faro is about 45 miles and less than 1 hr), car and scooter rentals, water sports and so on.

The grounds are spacious with outdoor pool and an attractive modern cafe/bar complete with big comfy chairs and and full blown espresso machine.

The apartment rooms were sparsely but adequately furnished and of a good size including the bathroom which being honest was a little dated but perfectly adequate. Did not use the kitchen other than the fridge but it looked fit for purpose. Decent size TV with free English cable channels plus Europsort. The downstairs room had a large patio and the upstairs a decent size balcony. Modern quiet effective air con was little used due to highly effective double glazed windows and shutters. Rooms cleaned and towels/linen changed twice per week. One downside was the noise from adjoining apartments from the chairs being dragged across the stone floors which is a shame as this seems an easy fix.

The delightful old town is a 15-20 minute downhill walk or a 4-5 Euro taxi, or take the free shuttle bus which runs 3-4 times per day to the town and the local beech which looked delightful.

Free spacious car parking right outside the apartment.
There is an excellent grocery store right opposite the entrance selling all the basics including fresh bread and fruit plus a small deli for cheese and meets, not to forget a range of wines and beers. A larger Intermarche a little further afoot.

Lagos is at the end of train line from Faro adding another travel option.
Reminder- The A22 is probably an electronic toll road by now.

This was our first self catering holiday booked as a package.

The bar on site was still open when we arrived and we able to eat and drink before we went to bed.

What can you say about the staff? courteous, ever helpful, nearly always smiling and pleasnt.

The apartment itself was amazing with tiled floos. Large bath room, bed room and a large dining/lounge area plus a balcony.

Just across the road is a mini mart and that had everything we needed at very comparable prices to the rest of europe and some items which to us were a "steal".

There was a regular free bus service to the beach or town or you could walk. It is however quite a climb even if gradual from the town but to the beach it is at points quite steep. Not wholly recommended for people who struggle walking. There is an hourly local bus service as well as the free bus.

There is easy access to other bars and resteraunts in the area and there are loads of them both locally and in the town. Prices are good as well and if you need a taxi back from the town it is about 4 euros.

Enjoyed the apartment, Lagos itself and the baches. Even went on a Dolphin trip. Wow that was fun. Because we went at the end of the season we didn't pay as much as advertised but what an experience. There are loads of companies offering these trips so look around and see who gives the best deal.

The ONLY downsides, besides losing our camera at the end of the holiday, was the trip from the airport to the apartment because it was a trip that went on every back road it could find and we were the 2nd last off the coach.

Also watch out for beggars. They more an annoyance rather than a threat and a polite NO! usually does the trick. One thing I did notice is they seem to meet in teams

The apartments are excellent - recommended

Lagos itself is recommended.

And would we go again?


YES!!!!

We were more than happy to re book Villabranca at a good price, and were delighted with what we got. Went for a 2 bedroomed this time - it was massive ! Huge sitting room, 2 big bathrooms, big kitchen, and best of all 3 big balconies ( I believe most of the 2 bedroomed apts have 2 balconies). The rooms are slightly sparsly furnished for thier size so it can be a bit echo-y but that is really splitting hairs . Yes the tv is a bit basic, and 'crackly' but thats not what we go on holiday for - nice just to catch up with the news ( or , lets be honest 'Strictly')
If anything we thought the complex was better than 2 years ago - all the public spaces are very spic and span - quickly resored after a huge storm. The pools are lovely but a bit chilly , it being October. Apartment cleaned twice during our stay, clean linen etc. Manger and staff very pleasant. We like the location as its quiet and a bit residential, so feels a bit local rather than a tourist zone. Very safe - the teenagers can do thier own thing.
Overall - if you want a good no-frills apartment then it would be hard to beat.