F.A.Q.
F.A.Q. Algarve.nu. Algarve.NU – Algarve Holiday rental from Private to Private.
One detached villa, called Algarve Vila Maria, two apartments Aurora Mar in Praia do Carvoeiro, and one apartment near Praia da Rocha on the edge of the city of Portimão called Vila Arade. Many of your questions are also answered in our General Terms and Conditions, which form the basis of the rental agreement and are listed per property on this site.
Questions about arrival and departure.
Questions about rental price, payment, costs, what is included.
Questions about the residences.
Questions about transport, parking, distances
Questions about the surroundings
Answer not found? Please email Info@Algarve.NU
1.Arrival and departure.
What are the arrival and departure times when I book with Algarve.NU holiday homes?
To give the cleaner enough time to clean and prepare the property for you, the homes are generally available from 3:00 p.m. Unless otherwise agreed, you are expected to leave the property neatly by 10:00 a.m..
What if the time of arrival at the Algarve property is very early or late?
After receiving the full rental amount, you will be sent the key or access codes by regular post or email. This means you can arrive outside the stated times at Algarve Vila Maria or the Aurora Mar and Vila Arade apartments whenever it suits you best.
What do we do if there are problems with the rented holiday home from Algarve.NU?
Accidents happen, even when you are on holiday in the Algarve Holiday Rentals homes.Something may break in the home. Please report this immediately to the landlord or hostess. A solution can always be found.
Can we park (free) at Aurora Mar, Vila Arade, and Algarve Vila Maria?Parking at all homes is (currently) completely free. Parking on the large private grounds of the Algarve Vila Maria is ideal, free and easy. The apartment in Portimao has its own free parking garage and you can also park safely in the closed area of the flat. Parking close to the apartments in Praia do Carvoeiro is not always easy in high season and sometimes requires some patience or a short walk. It is also free parking.
Where can I do my shopping when we rent Algarve Vila Maria or the Algarve Holiday Rentals apartments?
There are several small shops near the apartments, but most people take the car and drive in a few minutes to Intermarché, Apolónia, Aldi, or Pingo Doce. In Portimão there is also a small Lidl.
Is there a fixed day of arrival or departure at Algarve.NU?
There is no fixed day of arrival or departure. You are free to book days that suit you best.
How do I get the keys to the rented property?
When the full rental amount has been received, the access codes and details for Algarve Vila Maria or the apartments will be sent to you by email.
Do I need to give you my arrival time?
For planning the cleaners’ schedule, it is necessary to know approximately what time you expect to arrive at the holiday home. It is about 45 minutes by car from Faro. The cleaner must ensure everything is properly ready when you arrive.
2.Rental price, payment, costs, what is included.
Why does the Dutch owner-landlord of the holiday homes in the Algarve not charge a breakage deposit?
A matter of trust. And we have that trust in our guests! If you break something, that can happen, but please report it to the landlord or hostess.
What are the cancellation conditions for renting holiday homes from Algarve.NU?
These are described in detail in the General Rental and Booking Terms on the Algarve.NU website. In short: 30% of the total rental amount is due if cancelled up to 8 weeks before the start of the rental period, and 100% is due if cancelled within 8 weeks before the start. Taking out cancellation insurance is strongly recommended.
What percentage of the rental amount do I have to pay as confirmation of my booking?
If booking within 8 weeks before the start date, 100% must be paid. If the start date is further ahead, the deposit is 50%. The remaining amount is due 8 weeks before the start date.
Can I pay by credit card?
No, due to the high costs involved. Payment is only by bank transfer. For the villa, payment goes to the bank in the Netherlands; for the apartments, to the bank account in Portugal.
What about any damage?
Of course, you are liable for any damage caused to the rented property. Replace a broken glass or plate yourself and report other damage to the landlord or owner. Together we will find a solution and make sure future guests also have a pleasant and complete home.
Are there other costs in addition to the price?
No, in principle not. Everything is included under normal, generally accepted use of the property. Unless, for example, you use the electricity excessively or do not live in the property as a good tenant should.
Are the dates final when I book online on Algarve.NU?
There may still be requests from others that are undecided or temporarily on option while they have time to book tickets. Your online booking only becomes final once you have received our confirmation and the deposit has been received.
Can we place an option so that we can book tickets?
We can reserve the accommodation for you without obligation for up to 24 hours, giving you plenty of time to check flight availability.
Is there a minimum number of nights for a stay in the holiday homes?
Yes. In high season the minimum stay is 7 nights. For other seasons you can consult with us.
What is included in the rental price?
Unlike many others, Algarve.NU uses one all-in price. There are no extra charges. No booking fees, reservation fees, or anything else, so there are no surprises. The General Terms and Conditions for Algarve Vila Maria, Aurora Mar, and Vila Arade explain what you get for your money. And that is a lot! Our properties are very fully equipped.
Does Algarve.NU charge a deposit amount?
No! Algarve.NU gives guests complete trust that the accommodations will be used properly and that renters will report damage or replace items themselves and leave the property clean and tidy.
Do I also have to pay booking fees?
No! Our prices are all-in. Nothing is added for normal, accepted use, so you know exactly what you have to pay and what your holiday will cost.
Is air conditioning included in the price?
Yes. Air conditioning is available in both Algarve Vila Maria and the Aurora Mar and Vila Arade apartments. Use is free under normal, accepted use. So: no windows and doors open with the air conditioning on, and switch it off when nobody is in the property. Excessive meter readings are charged afterwards.
How many bedrooms and bathrooms do the Algarve.NU properties have?
The Algarve Vila Maria villa has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and is suitable for a maximum of 6 people. The Vila Arade apartment in Portimão has 1 double bedroom and a sofa bed for 2 in the living room. It has 1 bathroom with toilet, sink, and shower. Maximum 4 people. The Aurora Mar apartments in Praia do Carvoeiro each have 2 spacious bedrooms, space for an extra bed, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Each apartment accommodates a maximum of 5 people.
Are pets allowed in Algarve Vila Maria and the apartments?
Of course! You do not need to leave your pets at home or in a kennel. Discuss it with the Dutch owner of Algarve.NU and your dog or cat is welcome. Free of charge!
Does Algarve Vila Maria have a private pool? Is it heated?
All 3 Algarve.NU apartments have a spacious shared swimming pool with a separate pool for small children. These pools are only accessible to residents. Algarve Vila Maria has a private pool with spacious terraces. For your use only, so with plenty of privacy. The pools are not heated.
Are towels, bath towels, and beach towels available in all Algarve.NU accommodations?
Three towels are placed on each bed. These are changed once a week by the cleaner.
Do we need to bring our own bed linen when renting from Algarve.NU?
No. It is included in the Algarve.NU all-in price. You do not need to bring sheets or pillowcases. The beds are changed once a week by the cleaner.
Is there English television in the Algarve.NU holiday homes in Carvoeiro and Portimão?
All properties have satellite TV and many international channels can be received, In addition, Algarve Vila Maria, Aurora Mar apartments, and Vila Arade have fast internet TV.
Why is there a limit on the number of people per property rented by Algarve.NU?
A municipal license is required for holiday home rentals. It states the maximum number of residents. This is checked, and fines are high.
Are the properties suitable for people with mobility problems?
The apartment in Portimão is very suitable, with a lift from the garage to the front door, completely step-free and all on one level. The villa may also be suitable.
Is there a safe for my valuables?
There is a safe in both the Algarve Vila Maria and the Vila Arade apartment in Portimão.
Is free Wi-Fi available in the Algarve.NU accommodations?
Yes, fast wireless internet is free in all properties. Everywhere the connection is via fibre optic. The access code is on the router or in the house book. Do not share this code with others in the building, as that can significantly affect the speed.
Can Algarve.NU provide a cot and high chair, and what does it cost?
Yes, and it is completely free. Please let us know well in advance if you need them.
Is there a hairdryer in the holiday homes?
Yes, every bathroom in the Algarve.NU holiday homes has a hairdryer.
Can we sit outdoors under cover at Algarve Vila Maria? Are there balconies or terraces at the Aurora Mar and Vila Arade apartments?
It also sometimes rains in the Algarve. But when the weather allows, you can still enjoy the view comfortably under cover. Both apartments in Carvoeiro have a nice south-facing balcony, and the apartment in Portimão has two balconies with open views of the Arade River, Ferragudo, and the sea. The villa has a covered terrace off the living room, with wide views over the valley.
Do the properties have a dishwasher?
All properties have a washing machine. The apartment in Portimão also has a dishwasher, and Algarve Vila Maria has a dishwasher and a tumble dryer.
Is there a BBQ at Algarve Vila Maria?
The villa has a large BBQ by the pool terrace. The apartment in Portimão has a BBQ on the communal roof terrace. BBQs are not allowed at the Aurora Mar apartments in Praia do Carvoeiro.
Is the plot or grounds of Algarve Vila Maria fenced because of my pet?
Your pet is welcome in our properties. Of course, your dogs must be walked regularly. In summer this is not allowed on the beaches. The grounds of the apartment in Portimão are completely walled and fenced. The villa grounds are only partially fenced.
Is smoking allowed in the Algarve.NU properties?
Smoking is not allowed inside the properties. Outside and on the terraces, of course, it is allowed.
How are the holiday homes heated in winter?
The Aurora Mar and Vila Arade apartments can be heated in winter with the air conditioners. In Algarve Vila Maria, firewood for the wood-burning stove is included in the price, and there are air conditioners for warm air. The heating panels in the villa serve as pre-heating to prevent damp air inside when there are no guests.
4.Transport, parking, distances
Are the beaches within walking distance of the Algarve Holiday Rentals homes?
From the apartments in Praia do Carvoeiro, it is a 5-minute walk to the sandy beach in the centre of the village. Praia do Centeanes is a 15-minute walk. Praia da Rocha beach in Portimão is a 15-minute walk away. From Vila Maria, Praia de Benagil and Praia do Carvalho are a 15-minute walk.
How far are the Algarve.NU holiday homes from Faro Airport?
All properties are located in the Praia do Carvoeiro and Portimão region, in the western part of Central Algarve. By car or taxi, you are at your destination in about 45 minutes when using the toll-free A22 motorway. Via the provincial EN125 it takes a bit longer.
Is there a hospital near Carvoeiro and Portimão?
The large hospitals are in Faro and Portimão. In Alvor, near Portimão, there is a private hospital, Hospital Particular do Algarve HPA. Because of the pressure on public hospitals, HPA is used frequently. Several languages are spoken there, and it is recognised by many insurers. More details are in the house books of Algarve Vila Maria, Aurora Mar, and Vila Arade.
Is a rental car recommended when we rent Algarve Vila Maria? Do you know a good company where we can rent a car?
When staying in Algarve Vila Maria, a rental car is actually necessary. Most people rent their car at the airport. There are reliable companies that offer good cars at a reasonable price. When renting the Aurora Mar or Vila Arade apartments, a car is not essential. All amenities are within walking distance.
Can the Aurora Mar apartments in Carvoeiro and Vila Arade in Portimão be reached by public transport?
The 3 apartments are easy to reach by public transport, or with a shuttle service from the airport. Uber and Bolt are also good alternatives.
Is a rental car necessary?
The apartments are easy to reach by public transport, but it does take some time. Most of the shops you need are near the apartments and can be reached on foot. When you rent the detached villa, a car is necessary. The facilities are just a little too far to reach on foot, except for the beaches and 4 restaurants.
What is the best way to get from Faro Airport to the Algarve Vakantie Verhuur properties?
A rental car is the easiest option and also gives you the best opportunity to explore the beautiful Algarve during your holiday. The drive takes only 45 minutes. Shuttle services can also be found online.
Can I charge my electric car at Algarve Vila Maria?
Yes, Algarve Vila Maria has its own EV charging point. Conditions apply. Unfortunately, charging your electric car with your own cable via the mains is dangerous and not allowed. There are large voltage fluctuations, which can also damage your car. A charging point is available at Algarve Vila Maria.
Are there tennis courts near the Algarve Vakantie Verhuur homes?
In Praia do Carvoeiro there are tennis courts in Monte Dourado and at Carvoeiro Tennis. Near Portimão there are the Campo de Ténis and Clube Ténis e Padel de Portimão.
Is there a fitness centre at a reasonable distance from Carvoeiro?
In Lagoa, which Praia do Carvoeiro is part of, there is a sports club at the Fatacil grounds, where a large fair is held every year and a big flea market takes place on Sundays. In Portimão there are many ways to keep fit.
Are restaurants and cafés nearby the Algarve Vakantie Verhuur homes?
The apartments in Praia do Carvoeiro are located on Estrada do Farol, also known as the restaurant street. There are many restaurants, shops, and cafés. It is lively and there is a wide choice. The apartment in Portimão is a 15-minute walk from Praia da Rocha, where there are many places to eat. In the city centre there are also many options for a pleasant evening. If you rent the villa, SulMar and the restaurants in Praia de Benagil are the closest.
Which golf courses are closest to the holiday homes near Carvoeiro and Portimão?
The Algarve, Portugal is a true golf paradise. There are about 40 golf courses to choose from. Near the properties by Praia do Carvoeiro are the courses Gramacho, Vale da Pinta, Vale do Milho, and Silves Golf. Near Portimão are Alto Golf, Madragosa, and Penina Golf.
Where can we book a boat trip along the coast and visit the Benagil caves?
Many shops in Praia do Carvoeiro offer boat trips to see the beautiful rocky coast and secluded beaches. Tickets are also sold on the beaches. Along the promenade in Portimão there are many stalls offering boat trips and day tours. Algarve Vila Maria is within walking distance of Praia de Benagil, and the most beautiful sightseeing trips can be booked from Carvoeiro and Portimão.
6.Practical tips, good to know.
Are the houses of Algharve.NU also listed on portals such as Booking, Airbnb, Belvilla, or Eliza?
No! Such portals make your holiday more expensive because of the high commissions and fees they charge to both you and the landlord. When booking our properties, you are guaranteed the lowest price on the internet, with no extra commissions added.
Are there other people around the holiday home Algarve Vila Maria?
The Algarve Vila Maria villa is for your use only. No others in or around the villa, so complete privacy. The apartment buildings are inhabited by local residents or people on holiday there. There are shared areas such as the pool, roof terrace, garden, hall, etc. When you rent the detached villa, there are no others in or around the property and you have complete privacy. The gardener/pool attendant comes on Friday morning and tries to disturb you as little as possible.
What time are we expected at the Algarve Vakantie Verhuur holiday home?
For planning the cleaners’ schedule, it is helpful to know around what time you expect to arrive at the property. In principle, the homes are ready again around 3:00 p.m. Dropping off your luggage earlier is no problem. You can then do some shopping and explore the area.
Where can we leave our rubbish bags in Carvoeiro and Portimão?
Rubbish bags are not collected per property. It is also not intended that you leave them for the cleaner to take away. In many places along the streets there are waste containers. Although they are generally green, they are intended for your rubbish bags, empty bottles, and larger waste. This applies to both the Carvoeiro apartments and the Algarve Vila Maria holiday home near Benagil/Carvoeiro.
How often does the cleaner come and what does she do?
The cleaner comes twice a week in the summer months: once to dust and mop, and a second time to change the towels and beds. You do not need to stay at home for her, and she will appreciate it if you keep the house tidy and orderly yourself. A generous tip at the end of your holiday is greatly appreciated.
Does the hostess who visits us when we rent the Aurora Mar and Vila Arade apartments speak several languages?
When you rent one of the apartments, a hostess will leave you a bottle and a welcome card with her phone number. She will visit from time to time to ask whether everything is to your satisfaction, and you can call her if there are any problems with the apartment. She was born in the Netherlands, has lived in the Algarve for many years, and speaks several languages fluently.
What do we do if something is broken or no longer works properly in the Algarve.NU accommodations?
The homes are furnished and equipped as completely as possible. Guests are not asked to pay a deposit, on the understanding that the homes are used properly and that renters report damage or replace items themselves. If something breaks or an accident happens, of course you should report it to the landlord or hostess.
Distances to the beach from Algarve Vila Maria, Aurora Mar in Praia do Carvoeiro, and Vila Arade in Portimão?
As the crow flies: apartments in Carvoeiro 240 m, apartment in Portimão 1,275 m, Algarve Vila Maria 820 m.