Staying at the Rochavau Hotel in Portimão was a pleasant surprise for us, not least because of its ideal location just a few meters from magnificent golden beaches. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city’s ultra-touristy areas, the establishment offers a more peaceful and relaxing setting.
In this article, we share with you our experience of our stay. And, of course, we’ve taken plenty of photos to give you the full picture.
This review is completely independent, we stayed anonymously and paid our bill in full.
Why stay at the Rochavau Hotel?
When you stay at the Rochavau Hotel, you’re staying in one of Portimão’s finest establishments! Here are its 3 main assets, in our opinion:
- Location: although slightly removed from the tourist hustle and bustle, it’s in the immediate vicinity of splendid beaches such as Praia dos Careanos and Praia dos Três Castelos.
- Decoration: the refined ambience, both elegant and warm, creates a pleasant setting in which to relax. We really enjoyed the handicrafts on display in the reception area, including works woven from Algarve palm leaves and handmade ceramics.
- Prices: rates are reasonable for the services on offer and, above all, competitive with local hotels.
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OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN THE Algarve
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
Is the Rochavau Hotel worth it? Our review
Absolutely! Located just a few minutes’ walk from magnificent beaches, you can take full advantage of the sunsets from the top of the ochre cliffs. We were particularly impressed by its meticulous decor, inspired by local craftsmanship, which gives the place a real authenticity. Budget-wise, it offers more affordable rates than other similar establishments in the region.
Decoration and atmosphere
The Rochavau Hotel’s decor charmed us with its simple elegance and local roots. You’ll discover handcrafted objects such as vases and pitchers created by a local artist, as well as photographs featuring the Algarve’s landscapes. A few woven pieces and wooden elements complete the warm, authentic ambience. This attention to local detail helps create a welcoming environment, far removed from standardized settings.
FUN in the Algarve: activities
Caves and cliffs by boat
Kayak Tours
Dolphin watching
Jeep tour
The room
Our room exuded tranquility. We loved the mix of blue and brown tones, the wooden headboard and elegant furniture, not forgetting the cosy armchair and Art Deco lighting. Sheets embroidered with the hotel’s name added a refined touch. The office area was discreet but practical. In terms of facilities, everything was there to make our stay a pleasant one: minibar, safe, coffee machine with pods, tea bags and bottled water for refreshment. The room even had a small balcony overlooking the street, revealing the ocean on the horizon.
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The bathroom
Our bathroom combined a bathtub and a shower, making it easy to alternate between relaxation and speed. Toiletries were provided, as well as a comfortable bathrobe and slippers. Even the towels, embroidered with the hotel’s name, testified to our attention to detail. Compact but functional, the bathroom met our needs without superfluity.
The breakfast
The buffet breakfast was varied and generous, with a wide choice of sweet and savory products. We enjoyed the fluffy pancakes, fresh bread, cut-up fruit, crisp pastries and squeezed orange juice. On the savory side, the offer was equally complete: cold cuts, cheeses, cooked vegetables, scrambled or hard-boiled eggs, bacon and sausages. The pretty blue crockery added a touch of elegance to the meal. Weather permitting, breakfast on the outdoor terrace is a real plus.
Swimming pool and beach access
The Rochavau Hotel has a pleasant outdoor swimming pool, although it was not heated in October during our stay. But the real strength of this establishment lies in its immediate proximity to several of Portimão’s iconic beaches:
- 2min walk from Praia do Amado
- 7min walk from Praia dos Careanos
- 8min walk from Praia dos Três Castelos
The restoration
The hotel does not have a restaurant on site, but is a partner of Restaurant F, located in Praia da Rocha, about 15 minutes’ walk away. In fact, it’s one of our favorite addresses in Portimão, where we appreciate both the quality of the food and the oceanfront setting.
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Practical information about the Rochavau Hotel in Portimão
Type
The Rochavau Hotel is a 4-star establishment conveniently located in Portimão, close to several of the Algarve’s iconic beaches.
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Where is the hotel?
The establishment is located on Avenida São Lourenço da Barrosa in Portimão. Here are a few pointers to get you started:
- 10min drive from Portimão city center,
- Between Praia da Rocha and Praia do Vau,
- 2min walk from Praia do Amado,
- 7-minute walk from Praia dos Careanos,
- 8-minute walk from Praia dos Três Castelos,
- 50min from Faro Airport.
How to get there?
We recommend you use a car to reach this hotel and better visit the Algarve, which includes many must-see sites and beaches that are quite far away. Especially as this hotel is not located in the heart of the city, but a little way from the more touristy areas. From Faro Airport, the establishment is easily reached by car by taking the A22 main road westwards, then exiting at the N124.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN THE Algarve
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Don’t take a car that’s too wide, as old towns have narrow streets and small parking spaces.
- For more choice, book early.
Read our tips (coming soon)
Parking
L’hôtel propose un parking privé payant sur place, pratique pour plus de tranquillité. Il est aussi possible de se garer gratuitement dans les rues alentours, même si les places y sont limitées.
For people with reduced mobility
The Rochavau Hotel is accessible to people with reduced mobility, with elevators serving all floors. A ramp facilitates wheelchair access to the main entrance. These facilities allow all travelers to enjoy a serene and comfortable stay.
Is the Rochavau Hotel family-friendly?
Yes, the Rochavau Hotel welcomes families. On request, you can add an extra bed or crib in your room for your children. The outdoor pool is ideal for relaxing together after a day of exploring. And of course, the immediate proximity of the beaches means you can share some great family moments, with your feet in the sand or facing the ocean!
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO THE algarve
- Best of
Things to do in the Algarve
Most beautiful landscapes (coming soon)
Most beautiful towns and villages (coming soon)
Algarve’s most beautiful beaches
- Practical advice
When to go? (coming soon)
How to rent a car in the Algarve (coming soon)
Driving tips (coming soon)
Itineraries (coming soon)
- The must-dos
Ponta da Piedade (coming soon)
Benagil cave (coming soon)
Praia da Marinha
Dolphin watching (coming soon)
What to do in Lagos
What to do in Portimao
What to do in Albufeira
What to do in Faro
