Hôtel AmarilisAll Inclusive in Algarve

Claire Vasseur

JustRelax travel writer · 5 min read

The Algarve has a rare gift for making everyday life feel luminous. In Portimão, just 350 metres from the long sandy stretch of Praia da Rocha, Hotel Amarilis plays the role of the no-fuss family residence: generous apartments, a leafy garden, a waiting pool and the beach within sandal-reach. No over-promising, no unnecessary extras. Just a reliable, well-located base where you quickly feel at home.

Arrival

The residence presents itself as a 13-storey building overlooking its surrounding gardens. The tone is set immediately upon arrival: a relaxed atmosphere, an attentive team and a representative available every day to answer questions or help organise excursions. The 180 apartments are spread across all floors, each with a balcony facing either the gardens or the surrounding area. The interiors are well thought out: a separate bedroom, a lounge area with a sofa bed, a bathroom with a bathtub, and a kitchenette equipped with a kettle, toaster, fridge and microwave. Air conditioning, cable TV and wifi are included in every apartment. A one-bedroom apartment sleeps up to four people, making it comfortable for families or two couples travelling together. Practical note: the safe and telephone are available in rooms but are charged separately. Linen and towel changes are carried out once a week. The hotel is not suitable for guests with reduced mobility.

Dining, all included

Dining is centred around the Grand Caffé, the hotel's main restaurant, which serves buffet-style meals with regional Portuguese and international influences. The flavours of the coastal Algarve blend with broader international options to keep all tastes satisfied. Meals are included in the all-inclusive package, along with a selection of local alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks served in the restaurant during meal times. For snacks between meals, the pool bar steps in with a service running from 10:30 to 12:00 and 15:30 to 17:30. Local drinks, with or without alcohol, are available at the pool bar from 10:00 to 19:00. From 19:00 to 23:00, the hotel bar takes over with the same included selection of local beverages. The all-inclusive formula is valid until 11:00 on departure day. Please note: opening hours and the exact content of the all-inclusive offer may vary by season. We recommend confirming the details directly with the hotel or your tour operator, as inclusions may differ depending on the period and room type booked.

Days by the water

The heart of the residence is its garden and large outdoor pool, complete with a dedicated children's paddling pool. Sun loungers and parasols line the solarium for soaking up the Algarve sunshine at a relaxed pace. A small play area is also available for younger guests. For those seeking more activity or wellness options, billiards, a heated indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath, fitness room and massages are all available on site. However, these facilities are managed externally and are accessible for an additional fee. Beyond the pool, Praia da Rocha beach is just 350 metres away on foot. Sun loungers and parasols are available on the beach at local rates. Water sports and excursions can also be arranged, though these are external services and are offered at an extra cost.

Evening vibes

After 19:00, the hotel bar becomes the natural gathering point for residents. The included selection of local drinks means you can start your evening without reaching for your wallet. For those who want to extend the night or explore the area, Portimão marina with its bars and restaurants is just 1.5 kilometres away. A short walk is all it takes to find yourself alongside the pleasure port, enjoying the lively atmosphere of a typical Algarvian evening.

Who is it for?

The Amarilis is built for families who want a practical, well-placed base for exploring the beaches of the Algarve without paying for facilities they won't use. The apartments with kitchenettes and sofa beds are designed for the everyday logistics of travelling with children. Couples and groups of friends will also appreciate the proximity to the marina and the beach. That said, those looking for a premium hotel experience, an integrated spa or lively evening entertainment should look elsewhere. The Amarilis fully owns its three-star positioning: solid comfort, ideal location, honest value.