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Algarve Hostel has a homey feel in a central location in Faro for a decent price, though the social atmosphere and security could be improved.
The Location
Algarve Hostel (also known as “Well’come! To Algarve Hostel”) has an excellent location across the road from the long distance bus station in Faro, with the train station also a short walk away. Surrounding the hostel are narrow streets with plenty of dining and bar options, with the Marina close by. Other nearby attractions include the Old Town, Capela de Ossos (Bone Chapel), the Central Market, and Faro Cathedral.
Faro is quite small and most sites are within walking distance, while there are local bus connections near the hostel to get to beaches or to the airport. The hostel area is quite lively at night and does not feel unsafe to return late on foot; however, earplugs are suggested for a good night’s sleep amidst the ambient noise.
Rooms and Bathrooms
Algarve Hostel has a small number of mixed dorm rooms of six to ten beds, along with private rooms of single, double, twin, and triple configurations. Note that rooms are only accessible via stairs, spread across different buildings.
The dorm room beds and bedding are comfortable enough. The dorm rooms themselves remain unlocked, which may be a security concern for some; while there are medium-sized, upright lockers in the dorm rooms secured by keys provided, they don’t fit full-sized luggage. Keys are provided for front-door access into the hostel.
The small, shared bathrooms are unisex, with individual rooms containing a toilet and shower, or just toilet. These are kept reasonably clean. Towels are available for hire for a fee.
Common Spaces
There is a small lounge room area with couches and a television adjacent the reception "nook." There are only spaces for around six people to sit here, and its location -- in the middle of the hostel where all guests pass through -- makes it a little busy to be a relaxing chill out space.
The kitchen has adequate facilities for cooking and food storage. Breakfast is not provided at the hostel, but there are plenty of cafes and convenience stores close by. There is a small outdoor courtyard for smokers. A unique feature is the rooftop terrace with furniture, offering a good view over Faro and a great place to spend summer evenings. Given the configuration of the common spaces and small number of guests, the hostel doesn’t have much of a social vibe.
Summary
Algarve Hostel has a laid-back atmosphere and an excellent location. However, given the building’s one-hundred-year age, the look of the hostel is getting a little rundown. We would also rate the hostel higher if room security is improved. That being said, the hostel is a comfortable base for a short stay to explore the Algarve region.
Photos taken by the Hostelz.com reviewer — Genuine photos you can trust.
+3
Michelle W
Hostelz.com Staff Reviewer
Published on Sep 30, 2017
Location and Contact
Location
The Faro International Airport is an 11-minute drive.