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Summary of reviewsReal Marina Hotel & Spa in Olhao is highly praised for its exceptional location, offering scenic views of the Ria Formosa and close proximity to the marina, town center, various restaurants and ferry terminal for easy excursions to nearby islands. The hotel's convenient location makes it ideal for exploring the charming local area and accessing Faro and its airport efficiently.
The hotel is commended for its clean, spacious rooms featuring comfortable beds, large bathrooms and modern amenities such as Nespresso machines. Guests frequently mention the lovely sea views from the balconies, adding to the overall pleasant stay. Housekeeping is noted for maintaining a high standard of cleanliness throughout the rooms and common areas.
Breakfast at the hotel is often highlighted as a standout experience with an extensive and varied selection of high-quality items including fresh fruits, pastries and cooked options. The breakfast buffet is frequently resupplied, ensuring freshness and the staff's friendliness further enhances the dining experience. Despite a few minor critiques regarding the quality of hot dishes and coffee, the breakfast is generally considered one of the best features of the hotel.
Dinner reviews present a mixed picture. While many guests appreciate the à la carte options and the pleasant dining atmosphere, some express disappointment with the dinner buffet's limited variety and quality. Service in the restaurant receives mixed feedback, though the reception and waitstaff are generally praised for their professionalism and friendliness.
The staff at Real Marina Hotel & Spa are consistently described as friendly, helpful and attentive, contributing significantly to the hotel's positive atmosphere. Guests appreciate the multilingual capabilities of the staff and their dedication to providing excellent customer care, although a few isolated incidents of less favorable service were mentioned.
The hotel's spa receives mixed reviews with praise for its cleanliness, excellent treatments and pleasant facilities, though some guests report overcrowded conditions and additional charges for certain amenities. The gym is well-equipped and generally appreciated for its quality and cleanliness, despite some minor criticisms regarding access times and equipment updates.
Pool facilities garner varied reviews. The outdoor pool area is praised for its relaxing atmosphere and ample sunbeds, while the indoor pool and jacuzzi are noted for their cleanliness and warmth. However, there are critiques about the cold temperature of the outdoor pool and occasional maintenance issues.
Overall, the Real Marina Hotel & Spa is a favored choice for travelers seeking a serene and ideally located hotel with high standards of room comfort, cleanliness and professional service. Minor drawbacks such as WiFi connectivity issues and specific dining and pool area concerns do not significantly detract from the overall positive experience that many guests enjoy during their stay. Show more
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Luxury Hotel
Hotel for Honeymoon
Hotel with Spa
Family Friendly Hotel
Romantic Hotel
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Indoor Pool Rooftop Pool Panoramic View Pool Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Gym
5-Star Hotel
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Hotel with Panoramic View Pool
Hotel with Rooftop Pool
Hotel with Indoor Pool
Room Types
Double or Twin RoomFeaturing either a double or 2 single beds, this air-conditioned room has a flat-screen cable TV, safe deposit box and a balcony. The private bathroom includes a bathtub, slippers and free toiletries.
Extra beds cannot be requested.
This room has a land view.
Double Room with Sea ViewSpacious room with panoramic views of the sea. It comes with a flat-screen cable TV and a private bathroom.
Extra beds cannot be requested.
Suite with Sea ViewFeaturing Atlantic Ocean views, this spacious suite includes 2 bathrooms and 2 balconies. The air conditioned unit includes a safety deposit box, flat-screen cable TV and a minibar.
Maximum capacity for 2 adults and 2 children up to 12 years old. The children are accommodated on a sofa bed.
Junior Suite with Sea ViewThis family room has a balcony, minibar and air conditioning.
Maximum capacity for 2 adults and 2 child up to 12 years old. The child is accommodated on a sofa bed.
Junior Suite with TerraceThis family room features a balcony, minibar and cable TV.
Maximum capacity for 2 adults and 2 children up to 12 years old. The child is accommodated on a sofa bed.
This suite has a land view.
Standard Double or Twin RoomThis air-conditioned twin/double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a balcony.
Standard Double or Twin Room with Sea ViewThis air-conditioned twin/double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a balcony.
Junior SuiteThe air-conditioned suite has 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom with a bath and a hairdryer. Boasting a terrace, this suite also features soundproof walls, a minibar and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit has 3 beds.
About Real Marina Hotel & Spa
License: 847
Guest Reviews
8.5
Very Good
Location
Nestled in the charming town of Olhao, Real Marina Hotel & Spa is renowned for its exceptional location, offering a serene and picturesque setting. The hotel boasts stunning views of the Ria Formosa and marina, perfect for those seeking a relaxing stay with beautiful landscapes.
Travelers appreciate its close proximity to the town center and a variety of restaurants and bars, making it a convenient spot for food enthusiasts and those looking to explore local flavors. The central location facilitates easy access to the historic old town, various shops and the bustling covered market. Walking along the waterfront promenade directly from the hotel is a delightful experience for guests.
The hotel is ideally situated for those looking to embark on excursions to nearby islands such as Armona, Culatra and Farol with the ferry terminal just a short stroll away. Its strategic position also provides quick access to Faro and its airport, enhancing the convenience for travelers.
Beyond its prime location, guests consistently praise the hotel’s clean, spacious rooms and its well-maintained facilities. With free parking and excellent staff service, the Real Marina Hotel & Spa ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Whether visiting to soak in the scenic views or to explore the vibrant local life, this hotel offers an ideal base for uncovering the best of Olhao and its surroundings.
Breakfast
Real Marina Hotel & Spa offers a breakfast experience that's frequently lauded for its variety and quality. Guests consistently praise the wide selection of breakfast items available, from fresh fruits and pastries to cooked options and hearty continental choices. Many find the breakfast to be a highlight of their stay, noting its abundance and excellent quality. Freshly squeezed orange juice and a variety of breads and cheeses often receive special mentions.
The hotel's breakfast spread caters to most dietary preferences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. A noteworthy aspect is the frequent resupply of food, keeping the buffet well-stocked and fresh throughout the morning. The staff's friendliness and attentiveness further enhance the dining experience.
However, some reviews suggest areas for improvement, mentioning instances of lukewarm hot dishes, average coffee and repetitive offerings. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall impression is overwhelmingly positive with many guests considering the breakfast to be exceptional, varied and one of the best in the Algarve. The combination of quality food, a well-maintained breakfast room and helpful staff contributes to making breakfast at Real Marina Hotel & Spa an integral part of a memorable stay.
Dinner
Dinner experiences at Real Marina Hotel & Spa present a mixed picture. Many guests highlighted positives such as exceptional food quality, delightful desserts and an overall enjoyable dining atmosphere with occasional live music. Particularly notable were the varied and tasty meals provided during breakfast and lunch with many guests praising the à la carte dinner options that were both delicious and fairly priced.
However, a significant number of reviews pointed out several downsides. A common critique was the lack of variety and repetitive menu, especially for those not keen on seafood or pork. The dinner buffet often featured limited choices and some guests found the quality to be subpar for a 5-star establishment. Several reviews mentioned that the meals were overpriced and not worth the cost. The canned fruit in the fruit salad and the use of buffets over fresh food also disappointed some diners.
Service in the restaurant received mixed feedback. While some guests appreciated the friendly reception and professional waiters, others noted slow service and a lack of personal touch. Moreover, during periods when the main restaurant was closed, guests had to resort to the lobby bar for their meals, which didn't meet their expectations for a high-end dining experience.
Overall, while some visitors had a memorable culinary experience with great views and pleasant outdoor dining, others felt the need to explore nearby town center restaurants for better and more reasonably priced options.
Rooms
The guest reviews for Real Marina Hotel & Spa highlight several strong points about the rooms. A consistent theme across the feedback is the spaciousness and comfort of the accommodations with many noting the large, well-appointed rooms and suites that often come with sea views and balconies. Guests appreciated features such as big, comfortable beds, spacious bathrooms and modern amenities that include Nespresso machines and luxuriously furnished interiors.
Cleanliness is another recurring positive aspect, as many reviews mention that the rooms are well-maintained and spotless. The comfort level in the rooms is high with attention to detail in providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The staff’s attention to the needs of the guests is noteworthy, including thoughtful touches like providing a room for early check-in when traveling with young children.
Views from the rooms, especially those overlooking the marina or the Ria Formosa, are frequently highlighted as lovely and contributing to a pleasant stay. Many guests also found the breakfast to be excellent, complementing the overall room experience with good quality and variety.
However, some reviews note that certain rooms show signs of wear and tear, suggesting that the furniture and decor in a few instances might benefit from updates or maintenance. Issues like noise from adjacent rooms, external construction and average sound insulation also appeared in some feedback. Despite these minor drawbacks, the general consensus remains positive owing to the room size, cleanliness and comfort, making Real Marina Hotel & Spa a favorable choice for many travelers.
Beds
The guest reviews highlighted a mix of opinions regarding the beds at 'Real Marina Hotel & Spa.' A significant number of guests praised the beds for their comfort, describing them as fluffy, cozy and large with many noting a preference for the super-wide and queen-size options. The bedding quality received commendation with mentions of clean and comfortable linens contributing to a pleasant sleeping experience. However, there were also recurring mentions of twin beds pushed together to form a double, which some guests found unsatisfactory due to discomfort and unevenness.
Additionally, while many guests found the mattresses to be very comfortable, some raised concerns about the need for replacements, citing issues like springs being too squeaky, flattened mattresses and the presence of waterproof or plastic protectors that detracted from comfort. The pillows also received mixed feedback; a few guests were unhappy with their height and synthetic texture.
On the whole, while the spacious and comfortable beds enhanced the overall guest experience for many, there were consistent notes suggesting room for improvement, particularly concerning mattress quality and bed configurations.
Cleanliness
The Real Marina Hotel & Spa generally receives high praise for its cleanliness. Guests frequently note that the hotel is "spotlessly clean" and "very clean," with rooms described as "clean, comfortable and spacious." Many reviews highlight the excellent room cleaning services, mentioning that rooms are "cleaned to a very high standard" and "well-maintained." Common areas, including the lobby and pool, are also commended for their cleanliness.
The hotel’s modern facilities and clean environment add to the positive experience, suggesting that the cleanliness of the establishment adheres to high standards, possibly surpassing expectations for a hotel in its category. Additionally, guests appreciate the spaciousness of the rooms and the diligence of the cleaning staff, which includes the regular replacement of towels and adherence to hygiene measures.
Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some guests reported specific issues such as dirty sunbeds and a lack of towel replacement. However, these instances appear to be exceptions rather than the rule. Overall, the Real Marina Hotel & Spa is well-regarded for its clean, comfortable and well-maintained facilities, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a hygienic and pleasant stay.
Staff
Visitors to Real Marina Hotel & Spa consistently highlight the exceptional quality of the staff. Guests frequently describe the staff as friendly, attentive and incredibly helpful. From reception to the bar, the employees are noted for their professionalism, politeness and efficiency. Many visitors appreciate the multilingual capabilities of the staff, which enhances their overall experience.
Guests also remark on the warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the hotel’s team. Staff members go above and beyond to assist with requests, ensuring that guests feel comfortable and well-cared-for throughout their stay. Additionally, the service is described as impeccable and characterized by a genuine friendliness that makes interactions pleasant.
Despite a few mentions of less favorable experiences related to specific incidents at the reception and breakfast service, the overwhelming sentiment is positive. Numerous reviews commend staff members for their kindness and dedication with several citing superb treatment and exceptional customer care.
Overall, the staff at Real Marina Hotel & Spa contribute significantly to the hotel's appeal, making it a preferred choice for many travelers seeking a hospitable and efficiently managed stay.
Wi-Fi
Guest reviews about the WiFi at Real Marina Hotel & Spa highlight several issues. Many guests find the internet weak, especially in the rooms and on the higher floors with frequent disconnections and slow speeds. Complaints include poor WiFi signals that often do not extend to the balcony, some rooms or even the entire floor. Although there were mentions of strong and fast WiFi by a few guests, these positive experiences seem to be exceptions rather than the norm. Overall, the consensus suggests that the hotel could greatly benefit from improvements and more investment in their WiFi infrastructure to ensure a more reliable and consistent experience for guests.
Spa
The Real Marina Hotel & Spa features a spa that receives mixed reviews from guests. While some reviewers find the spa area pleasant and well-maintained with excellent treatments and accommodating staff, others highlight certain drawbacks. The spa facilities include an indoor pool, sauna and bubble bath, though some amenities require additional fees, such as the sauna and steam room. Positive remarks often emphasize the clean and easy-to-use facilities, the lovely massage treatments and a generally enjoyable spa and pool experience. The spa is described as fantastic and world-class by some guests, who also appreciate the beautiful design centered around a small waterfall and the lovely terrace.
However, the spa has also faced criticism for being crowded and not private, diminishing the relaxation experience. There were mentions of the spa area needing updates with a particularly small bubble bath that disappointed some visitors. Guests also reported occasional closures and limited access, which led to frustration, especially for those who chose the hotel specifically for its spa services. Lastly, the spa's schedule and access to facilities like the gym were described as restricted or complicated by some.
In summary, while the Real Marina Hotel & Spa offers a range of spa services and a relaxing atmosphere for many guests, potential visitors should be aware of additional charges for certain amenities and the possibility of overcrowded conditions.
Gym
The Real Marina Hotel & Spa offers a range of fitness amenities that generally receive positive feedback from guests. The gym is frequently described as well-equipped, spacious and of high quality, providing good facilities for guests. The fitness room is highlighted for being modern and in great condition with some guests noting the addition of new gym equipment. Many find the gym and pool areas to be very clean and welcoming and the central location of the gym within the hotel is also appreciated.
However, there are some mixed reviews about the gym with a few guests mentioning outdated equipment and restricted access times. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment leans towards satisfaction with the gym facilities, complemented by the broader amenities of the hotel's spa and indoor pool areas.
Pool
The Real Marina Hotel & Spa's pool facilities garner varied reviews from guests, albeit leaning towards a positive experience. Many highlight the lovely pool area, which is noted for being clean, relaxing and equipped with plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas. The rooftop pool receives accolades for its pleasant atmosphere and stunning views over Ria Formosa, while the heated outdoor pool is particularly appreciated for its ideal temperature and comfort, especially during cooler times of the year.
Indoor pool amenities also garner praise with mentions of well-maintained facilities, warm water and a relaxing jacuzzi corner. Guests appreciate the accessibility and cleanliness, though there are occasional critiques regarding the indoor pool’s small size and the necessity of wearing swimming caps.
Conversely, the outdoor pool's cold temperature seems to be a recurring issue, potentially deterring some guests during colder seasons. Moreover, the construction work on the pool area and maintenance concerns, like missing tiles and unclean spots, have been noted less favorably.
Additionally, both indoor and outdoor pools occasionally witness a high volume of users, making it hard to find a spot. There's also feedback on the small size of the outdoor pool, especially for a five-star hotel and the temporary closures due to ongoing work, which have been a source of disappointment for some guests.
Despite minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment towards the pool facilities at Real Marina Hotel & Spa remains positive, thanks to the pleasant ambiance, good maintenance and scenic views, creating an enjoyable experience for many visitors.
Parking
The Real Marina Hotel & Spa offers a variety of convenient parking options that cater to guests' needs. The hotel provides free parking, both outside and in an underground garage, making it easy for guests to find a spot right in front of the hotel or within its premises. An added benefit is the spacious and accessible indoor parking, which includes designated handicapped spaces and charging stations for electric vehicles. The on-site parking facilities are ample, allowing for easy and secure vehicle storage. Overall, the parking situation is efficient and hassle-free, enhancing the overall convenience of staying at this centrally located hotel.
Family
Real Marina Hotel & Spa is praised for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for a family vacation. Guests appreciate the spacious and clean rooms with specific mentions of large family rooms and suites that provide ample space for comfort. The hotel offers thoughtful amenities such as baby gear upon request and has facilities dedicated to families, including a small kids club and a play area. Several reviewers highlighted the hotel's focus on family-oriented activities and the engaging entertainment options for children, enhancing the overall family experience.
The hotel's convenient location and well-maintained facilities also contribute to its suitability for family stays. Guests have noted the presence of an indoor pool that is perfect for children and the outdoor family facilities add to the variety of activities available. Additionally, babysitting services and family-friendly meals further accommodate the needs of families with young children.
Despite a few isolated complaints, the overall sentiment indicates that Real Marina Hotel & Spa is an ideal destination for families looking for a relaxed and enjoyable stay, whether for a short break or a longer holiday. Providing a welcoming environment for both parents and children, the hotel ensures that families feel comfortable and entertained throughout their visit.
5 Star
The Real Marina Hotel & Spa in Olhão presents itself as a five-star establishment, but numerous guests feel it falls short of this prestigious rating. While some praise its luxuriously furnished interiors and the peaceful, well-maintained spa, which offers a comforting and quiet retreat, many reviews highlight concerns about the hotel's overall status and maintenance.
Issues such as torn curtains, poor quality faucets, basic room amenities and outdated facilities detract significantly from the five-star experience expected by visitors. Reviews frequently mention the need for room renovations and improved cleanliness, underlining that the hotel's upkeep does not align with five-star standards. Guests also reported noise disturbances from ongoing facade refurbishment work and poor service quality, including long waits at the restaurant and a cold reception.
On a positive note, the rich breakfast options and the serene atmosphere of the spa stand out as strong points. However, these aspects are often overshadowed by complaints about the hotel's organization and maintenance. The general sentiment reflects that Real Marina Hotel & Spa is more accurately described as a four-star hotel with aspirations that are not quite fulfilled to justify its five-star classification.
Business
Real Marina Hotel & Spa has garnered mixed but generally positive feedback from business travelers. The hotel is praised for its large and clean rooms, ideal for those looking to rest comfortably after a long day of meetings. Both indoor and outdoor pools are noted as great places to unwind.
Conference facilities at the hotel earn high marks with excellent views adding to the appeal for business-related events. The location is considered very good for business purposes and the efficient check-in and check-out procedures enhance the overall experience.
However, the internet quality has been a common concern among guests, indicating that it may not always meet the high demands of business travelers. While the hotel meets basic business needs, some reviews mention that it lacks a broader range of business facilities. Additionally, some guests noted minor inconveniences such as coffee not being replenished.
Overall, Real Marina Hotel & Spa stands out as a solid option for business trips, offering good conference features and a convenient location. Those in need of reliable internet might want to plan accordingly, but the hotel generally meets the expectations for business stays.
Accessible
The Real Marina Hotel & Spa receives positive remarks for its accessibility features, catering well to guests with disabilities. The facilities are described as very accessible, including the entrance, spa and rooms, some of which are specially equipped for wheelchair use with accessible showers and chairs. The hotel's central location adds to its convenience, being within close proximity to various points of interest. Parking is comfortably covered, including a free parking garage beneath the hotel. Staff attentively address accessibility needs, ensuring guests feel supported throughout their stay. Overall, the hotel offers easy accessibility across its amenities, making it a suitable choice for guests with disabilities.
Outdoor Pool
The outdoor pool at the Real Marina Hotel & Spa has received mixed reviews from its guests. A predominant number of visitors found the pool to be a superb highlight of their stay, describing it as fabulous, modern, clean and well-maintained. It’s worth noting that many appreciated the relaxing atmosphere around the pool and the ample availability of sunbeds.
However, some guests reported that the outdoor pool was freezing, leaving them disappointed, especially since they expected it to be heated. There were occasions when the outdoor pool was closed due to construction or renovations, which understandably caused some frustration among visitors who were looking forward to enjoying it. Additionally, the presence of seagulls bathing in the pool early in the morning was observed by a few guests.
Despite these issues, the pool area and bar were often mentioned positively, offering a nice place to relax with a beer. The decor around the pool was also highlighted as a beautiful aspect of the stay. Nevertheless, those looking for a consistently warm and comfortable outdoor swimming experience might want to consider these mixed reviews when planning their visit.
In conclusion, while the pool is often a high point for many guests at the Real Marina Hotel & Spa, its temperature control and occasional closures can be a drawback.
Indoor Pool
The Real Marina Hotel & Spa offers a range of amenities, including a delightful heated indoor pool. Many guests appreciate the pool for its cleanliness and well-maintained condition, describing it as lovely and magnificent. Families especially find the indoor pool accommodating with children enjoying the spacious area. The spa facilities, including both indoor and outdoor pools, are well-regarded and available without extra cost. The presence of the indoor pool adds significant value to guests’ experiences, even during restricted times.
However, there are some areas for improvement. Some guests reported that the indoor pool water was too cold and occasional maintenance issues such as tiles popping up have been noted, which caused injuries and cleanliness concerns. The requirement to wear a swimming cap and make a booking for use could be inconvenient for some visitors. Despite these drawbacks, the majority of the feedback highlights the indoor pool as a pleasant and appreciated feature of the hotel.
Luxury
Nestled in a scenic location perfect for bird watching and enjoying nearby attractions, Real Marina Hotel & Spa offers a blend of opulence and comfort. Guests appreciated the beautiful, luxurious rooms often highlighted by stunning sea views and modern amenities. The hotel’s facilities are plentiful and generous, contributing to an overall sense of relaxation and tranquility. Despite some comments about dated decor and the need for renovations, many found the staff lovely and the overall experience to be luxurious and of exceptional quality. The setting itself was often described as both beautiful and tranquil, perfect for a quiet, restful stay.
While some guests questioned its five-star rating and noted issues such as low-end room equipment and the need for updates to certain areas, others still felt it delivered value for money. The luxurious touches, such as a gift basket upon arrival, added to the appeal, making it feel more like a high-end retreat.
Ultimately, despite mixed reviews regarding its five-star status, the Real Marina Hotel & Spa is recognized for its relaxing atmosphere, great facilities and a location that adds to the luxury experience.
Romantic
The Real Marina Hotel & Spa offers an idyllic setting for couples seeking a romantic escape. Guests have frequently praised the hotel for being a luxurious, romantic haven, perfect for special occasions like anniversaries, honeymoons or just a peaceful weekend away. The hotel’s location next to the Marina adds to the charm, providing beautiful views and a serene atmosphere.
Couples have highlighted the thoughtful gestures such as rose petals on the bed, trays of desert and complimentary champagne and chocolates, which add a personal touch to their stays. These details, along with the romantic decorations in the rooms, contribute to a cozy and intimate environment. Guests also appreciate the romantic meals and breakfast options that enhance the overall experience.
For those looking for relaxation, the hotel’s romantic spa nights have been well-received, making it an ideal place to unwind with a partner. The dreamy setup and cosiness permeate throughout, making it a highly recommended destination for romantic getaways.
Whether celebrating a significant event or simply wanting to enjoy pleasant days with a partner, the Real Marina Hotel & Spa’s ambiance and dedicated service make it a perfect choice. The beautiful weather, welcoming atmosphere and tranquil setting ensure that many guests would gladly return to relive their romantic experiences.
Yes, Real Marina Hotel & Spa has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Indoor Pool, Rooftop Pool, Panoramic View Pool, Outdoor Pool.
Yes, a spa is available at Real Marina Hotel & Spa.
No, Real Marina Hotel & Spa doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Real Marina Hotel & Spa.