John the owner had been in contact throughout the build up with suggestions and guidance which prepared us nicely. The apartment was comfortable and spacious for 4 people family- 2 bedrooms. The air con was a welcome relief in the July heat and kept things cool. The apartment was remarkably well equipped with all kitchen utensils and even beach equipment for the kids! Clean, quiet, wifi, and multiple tv channels w/ netflix. The terrace gets early sun, but is nice to sit out in evening for moon rise over Atlantic. No complaints at all, but if you are greatly out of shape or impaired, the 3 flights of stairs may catch you out- makes for good views if hell with a suitcase!
A fairly large supermarket is only 5 minutes walk away for all your grocery needs ( i recommend the deli spare ribs!), with a very large shopping centre within 15 mins walk. Tavira, the local town is 25 mins walk, or 5 mins taxi that are fairly easy to book and around 6 euros a trip. The pool was never crowded, got lots of shaded areas to shelter if you want out the sun, and a small bar/restaurant that serves simple but enjoyable foods and drinks til 11pm.
Most other residents were Portuguese or French with occasional Brits. Nice that you felt you were not back in UK, but enough company for a chat or for kids to play with.
Beach is a ferry away. Did not understand how this works until arrival. No access to beach by walking, you need to board a regular, cheap ferry from Tavira centre. Faff, but easy to do.