Entire home

Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite…..

Photo gallery for Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite…..

Outside terrace at Casa Clare
View from roof terrace daytime
View from roof terrace evening
buy fresh seafood on the estuary walk
Roof terrace (old photo, trees now gone)

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedroomsSleeps 492.9 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Alvor, Faro District
  • Alvor Boardwalk
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Alvor Beach
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Tres Irmaos Beach
    ‪20 min walk‬
  • Portimao (PRM)
    ‪4 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Guest bedroom

2 Single Beds

Main bedroom

1 King Bed

Guest shower room / wc

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Main bedroom ensuite

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite…..

Located right beside the marina / main restaurant area, Casa Clare offers four people comfortable, convenient home-from-home accommodation with its two bedrooms, traditional barbeque, large patio and roof terrace offering stunning views over the marina as far as Lagos.

With a Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers and mild winters, summer temperatures are high, but moderated by the sea breeze. It is said that the Algarve has one of the best all year climates in Europe.

Alvor, in the Western Algarve is testament to that! It is perfectly located, close to the sea and countryside it is the optimal destination for those seeking a versatile holiday. Alvor is a 50 minute drive from Faro airport.

Village life is pleasant, you can wander to the market hall or bakery in the morning and buy your fresh fruit, fish and bread and spend your afternoons relaxing on the beach. For the more energetic there’s golf, horseback riding, water sports and a wide selection of excursions (land and sea, all available within 100 metres of Casa Clare).

Steps immediately outside Casa Clare on Rua dos Pescadores lead down to the main restaurant area / marina. Alvor boasts over 100 restaurants, most of which are an easy stroll from the house.

Our fully equipped kitchen will make home cooking a pleasure and should the weather warrant it, the dining suite in the living room provides for comfortable eating indoors

The living room boasts two large Italian sofas with matching foot stools. The entertainment unit housing a 50” smart TV with Netflix, books and games and a stand-alone wood burning stove creates a cosy homely feel on the rare cool day or chilly night. Of course there is air-conditioning! There is hi speed wifi throughout the house and terraced areas.

But who wants to be indoors? Eating out at home is such a joy…….the aromatic scent of fresh herbs, coupled with the sizzling sound of fresh fish or meat on the charcoal is mouth-watering at any time of day!

Breakfast outside on the patio is extra special with cheerful birdsong and the faint sounds of the fishermen returning with their late night or early morning catch!

There’s no need for a clock here, the local church bells ring in the hours and lively antics and calls of the seagulls announce mealtimes!

Sundowners on the rooftop to the sound of the wind blowing through the rigging and halyards of sail boats in the marina, the fading light “through dark clouds a red rose peeping and an amber gleam*” eases the day into the night. (*Afanasy Afanasyevich Fet)

The master bedroom (king size bed) to the rear of the property is en-suite (shower & toilet); it has air-conditioning and an electric fan. There is ample storage in the wardrobe, two bedside lockers and vanity unit.

The second bedroom to the front of the house has twin beds, a large wardrobe, bedside lockers, vanity unit and under window storage

There is an electric fan and a Windows PC for guest use and a separate guest shower and toilet. All beds are made up with luxurious Egyptian cotton linen and Egyptian cotton guest towels are also provided.


Both shower rooms have extractor systems and heated towel rails. Both bedrooms have hair dryers and hot & cold fans.

There is a large safety deposit box (can hold 2 laptops) in the living room

Suitability: Casa Clare is best suited for responsible adults due to the tiled and graded floors, multiple steps and a high terrace. It may not be suitable for the very elderly or infirm. It is not wheelchair friendly. Guests and potential guests should note that our garden sun loungers and garden chairs are rated for a maximum user weight of 125 kg which is 19.6 stone or 275 pounds. Our zero gravity fold up chairs are rated for a maximum user weight of 110 kg which is 17.3 stone or 242 pounds.

Smoking is not permitted in the house and pets are not allowed.

Casa Clare is on a pedestrian only street. There is free on-street parking in Alvor (50 to 100 metres from the property).

Please note the primary renter minimum age is 30 with no exceptions.

Maximum stay is 30 days


Property manager

Zoe Giltrap MacCourt

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Steps roof terrace so care needed with small kids.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking outdoors only in garden area
Sun loungers /chairs are for a max user weight of 125 kg (19.6st /275pnds). Zero gravity fold up chairs are rated for a max of110 kg (17.3st/242pnds)

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
Property Registration Number 11534/AL

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Portimão

Located in Portimão, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. While the natural beauty of Alvor Beach and Rocha Beach can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can explore Marina de Lagos. Slide and Splash Water Park and Discoveries Wax Museum are also worth visiting. Snorkelling and windsurfing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling and hiking nearby.
Map
Alvor, Faro District

What's nearby

  • Alvor Boardwalk - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Alvor Beach - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Tres Irmaos Beach - 20 min walk - 1.7 km
  • Vau Beach - 12 min drive - 4.3 km
  • Rocha Beach - 14 min drive - 5.6 km

Getting around

  • Portimao Station - 17 min drive
  • Portimao (PRM) - 4 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Beer&Co. - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Restaurante A Ribeira - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Restaurante A Lota - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Restaurante Casa Maré - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Restaurante Lusitânia - ‬1 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite….. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite….. ?

There is free parking nearby.

What time is check-in at Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite….. ?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite….. ?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite….. located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Alvor Boardwalk and Alvor Beach. Hospital Alvor and Tres Irmaos Beach are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 66 out of 69 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 69 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 69 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 69 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 69 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Wanda E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfy, cozy Casa in great Location

My husband and I just came home from a wonderful stay at Casa Clare. Check in with Lynzi went smoothly and we were pleasantly surprised by the welcome package including a lovely bottle of port, some wine and a few groceries. The house is in a great location near the marina with many restaurants in the area. Since we were there for several months, we also greatly appreciated having a local butcher shop and several grocery stores within easy walking distance. The house itself is very well stocked with all the dishes, pots & pans etc. that anyone needs to prepare lovely meals at home. We had a fair amount of rain during our stay so we really appreciated the large supply of books and the many available TV channels & a Netflix subscription. When the weather was good, the roof top terrace was a fantastic spot to lounge in the sun, enjoy the views of the marina or enjoy a spectacular sunset. We found Zoe and Gervase to be wonderful hosts. They were very quick both to answer any questions we had regarding the property and to solve any of the minor issues that occurred. We want to thank them for providing such a lovely home to enjoy. Bob and Wanda
Stayed 77 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Wanda E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfy, cozy Casa in great Location

My husband and I just came home from a wonderful stay at Casa Clare. Check in with Lynzi went smoothly and we were pleasantly surprised by the welcome package including a lovely bottle of port, some wine and a few groceries. The house is in a great location near the marina with many restaurants in the area. Since we were there for several months, we also greatly appreciated having a local butcher shop and several grocery stores within easy walking distance. The house itself is very well stocked with all the dishes, pots & pans etc. that anyone needs to prepare lovely meals at home. We had a fair amount of rain during our stay so we really appreciated the large supply of books and the many available TV channels & a Netflix subscription. When the weather was good, the roof top terrace was a fantastic spot to lounge in the sun, enjoy the views of the marina or enjoy a spectacular sunset. We found Zoe and Gervase to be wonderful hosts. They were very quick both to answer any questions we had regarding the property and to solve any of the minor issues that occurred. We want to thank them for providing such a lovely home to enjoy. Bob and Wanda Enns
Stayed 77 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect spot in the perfect place

The property is located just one street away from the main area of Alvor with its bars and restaurants. The house has everything you need: large TV with a host of UK channels. The kitchen is very well equipped with ample crockery, cutlery, hob and a large fridge freezer. The main bedroom has an ensuite shower room and a very comfortable double bed and air con. The front bedroom has 2 single beds with a fan instead of aircon. The garden area has a table we used every day. The roof terrace has space for 2 sun loungers and is very much a suntrap. It's slightly overlooked but nothing intrusive. We were very well looked after by Lorna who kept in touch with us throughout our stay - she's lovely. The owners Zoe and Gervase also looked after us very well with great communication prior to our arrival and throughout our stay. We had a small issue with the washing machine that was promptly resolved by Zoe and Lorna. The only areas of improvement that we would suggest is that the air con system be upgraded with an additional unit in the front bedroom. We also think the kitchen and storage areas/drawers could benefit from being cleared as there are a lot of items there that have built up over many stays. We have stayed in a number of properties in Alvor since 1997 but Casa Claire allowed us to have one of the best, most relaxing holidays we've ever had. We enjoyed the sun during the day and the town at night with everything an easy stroll away and would recommend it to anyone!
Stayed 14 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Hilary D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay in Alvor

Perfect, fantastic location. Close to centre, peaceful with a lovely garden.
Stayed 11 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nicola D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely stay at Casa Clare, again!

Our second visit to Casa Clare, which is so well located for all the lovely restaurants in Alvor - a few minutes walk. The house is clean, comfortable, and with all facilities you could need. We also enjoyed the shaded garden and roof terrace. We hope to return!
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Guy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic

Very nice and very comfortable, felt right at home. Outdoor space is great and location is perfect
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cynthia B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

As advertised

Everything was exactly as promised. A great location and both the rooftop and garden patios were great outdoor spaces. Kitchen is well equipped although we did have most meals at one of the many great restaurants.
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2024

6/10 Okay

Monita L.

Disliked: Communication, location

Alvor get-away

Although property is a bit rundown, it was clean and appliances were functional. The apartment and location did not meet our expectations, but that is on us.
Stayed 13 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peshe K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable, beautifully located house in small town

This comfortable house with all necessary amenities,including wifi and a clothes dryer as well as attractive outdoor space, was perfect for a month's stay for my husband and myself. It was easy to get around town on foot and pleasant to be among Portuguese neighbors who were always friendly. We rented a car which we parked at the marina. In February it was no problem to find a space nearby. The host was always responsive to email. We thoroughly enjoyed our time at Casa Clare.
Stayed 29 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dawn M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location

We spent 6 nights at Casa Clare and had a wonderful time! As advertised it is in the middle of the action but far enough away not to be bothered by the noise and energy of the evening activities. The house was so comfortable and equipped with everything you could need or imagine. It felt like a home away from home. We had a few perfect beach days and many delicious meals; joined a kayak tour from Portimao to tour the caves! We enjoyed cooking “ at home” a few nights and dined on the back patio. We toasted the sunset from the upper deck. Alvor is a lovely town, still quaint and not over run by tourism . Would highly recommend staying here P.S- the bed in main bedroom was extremely comfortable with high quality bedding.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Maxim A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very pleasant comfortable stay

The house came as advertised. It had absolutely everything you could need with the kitchen fully stocked, living room with TV, books, umbrellas, beach towels, washing products, literally everything. Apartment is 2 steps away from the main restaurant street with about 2 dozen restaurant choices, supermarket, etc. The host asked to check in before 6pm to avoid extra charge, but that’s only thing that might be an issue for some. Overall highly recommended.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Short stay in Alvor

We loved Casa Clare. The house is just perfect, right in the centre of beautiful Alvor on a lovely quiet and traditional street but only steps away from the harbour and Main Street with all the bars and restaurants. What really makes the space really special is the outdoor space. We enjoyed having our breakfast and pre-dinner drinks on the roof terrace, and we also made use of the BBQ and dining area outside. We will definitely be back to Alvor and I just hope this fab little place is available when we do! Thank you for a lovely stay
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay at Casa Clare

We had a wonderful time with family at Casa Clare. Nice touches of leaving milk and water for us and we could use beach towels and cool boxes for the beach. Proximity to the main restaurant area is just round the corner, yet quiet at night. Outdoor area was superb too. Would stay again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Aidan R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Casa Clare

Very central , very well equipped all mod cons, beautiful outside space
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbara W., Nova Scotia Canada

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very nice property

This cottage is in the centre of the village within easy walking distance of beach, shops and restaurants. It is very well equipped with everything you need ( and more) . We would stay there again if available
Stayed 6 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicola D., United Kingdom

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable house, perfectly situated

We had a great 10 days in this comfortable and well-equipped little house in the heart of old Alvor. The beds are very comfortable and the house has everything you’d need for a holiday. The house is literally a couple of minutes’ walk from Alvor’s best restaurants and 15 minutes walk from the beautiful beach. Lorna, the local representative couldn’t have been more helpful- and the same was true of the owners. We definitely plan to return one day.
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Alvor is quite central for exploring the Algarve, while being quiet and laidback. The property is as described. It's even more central in Alvor than we initially realized - many, many restaurants, cafes, shops, and bars are within a block or two. The house is comfortable. We appreciated use of the washer & dryer. Communication with the owners was clear and prompt. Would recommend for a group of 2-4.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joyce A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Casa Clare is the best!

My husband and I stayed for a month at Casa Clare. Can’t say enough about the location being perfect. Loved being on a little street where the neighbors hang out the window to see what’s going on or sometimes to hang their laundry. Roslyn down the street a bit always had a bom dia and a smile for us and Maria across the way always said hi! Yet 2 mins walk and you are at the marina or a plethora of restaurants As for the house many days spent on the rooftop terrace with some wine, bread, butter and olives and enjoying the view. Just amazing! Inside fully equipped kitchen could want for nothing more Washer and dryer included and also a clothesline outside. If you want to experience Portugal in style this is the place to stay in the Algarve
Stayed 29 nights in Jan 2022

10/10 Excellent

Steve L., Trowbridge, Wiltshire, England

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Perfect Holiday Property

We first stayed at Casa Clare four years ago and left a glowing review. Nothing has changed and having read the comments of other guests, which are universally complimentary, it is hard to find something original to add! We have stayed in many rental properties and this is right up there as one of the very best in every single department. The owners are extremely pleasant and communicate most professionally and promptly. The check in process was friendly and very welcoming accompanied by a generous 'welcome pack' of essentials plus wine! To be honest, we have never stayed in a holiday rental that is so comprehensively equipped with absolutely anything and everything you could possibly need - and that includes our own! It is a real home from home. It is situated in the heart of the charming fishing village of Alvor which has an abundance of restaurants to suit all tastes, a delightful coastal boardwalk and is a most peaceful and charming haven. We would like to thank Zoe and Gervase, the owners, for providing such a perfect holiday property and we shall most certainly return.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

veronique t.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Jolie maison dans le centre d’Alvor

Très jolie maison dans le centre mais calme. Très bien aménagée avec tout le confort et les équipements souhaités. La vue depuis le patio est magnifique et apaisante avec de beaux couchers de soleil ! L’emplacement est parfait, à 2 pas de tout , restaurants, commerces. Plage accessible à pied ! Une très belle semaine, on espère revenir.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

caroline b., Clamart

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Jolie maison de ville avec extérieur coquet

Joli logement en plein centre d’Alvor tout en étant à l’écart de l’agitation. Le logement est très bien équipé : cuisine, linge, appareils électroménager, BBQ, climatisation. Super literie. L’extérieur est un vrai plus avec une terrasse et un solarium avec vue sur la mer. Accueil sympathique de Lorna.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

adam b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A week at Casa Clare in the summer

My partner and I loved Casa Clare. There’s a cute outdoor area with sunshine and a beautiful bougainvillea, and also a place to sit on the roof terrace which looks out over the bay and where you can watch the sunset. The house is nice too though we didn’t spend a lot of time inside. The Main Street with shops and restaurants is one street over so it’s very easy to head out into town. Lovely house. Hope we cam go back at some stage.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Merna P., Belair, Manitoba, CANADA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Portugal Haven

What a good week we had in Casa Clare! Everything, from the comfort of the beds, the well stocked kitchen, the gift of the glorious Port, the bottle of wine, the perfect outside area, and a clothes washer! all was perfect. We thoroughly enjoyed meeting our neighbour Rosa, loved exploring the little winding cobblestone streets, walking the boardwalk, and trying different restaurants. Thank you to our “greeters” and to Zoe and Gervase (sp.). We would love to return one day.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Diana H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely winter getaway

We had a great time staying here with our young family. The location was perfect for going to the beach, a stroll along the board walks or popping into town to the local play area. The property was very well equipped with everything we could need. Check process was simple. Overall a great week in the February sunshine.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Brian B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Home from Home in the Algarve

A great and very well appointed property in a quiet location, but in the heart of one of the most characterful locations in the Algarve. Super selection of fish restaurants. We walked every day, and found this a very central location for both coastal paths and the mountains around Monchique (We did 75 miles and 9,000' climb in the week). The bird and wild plant life was exceptional. Brian and Moira Biggs
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2020

About the host

Hosted by Zoe Giltrap MacCourt

Host profile image
Researching the retirement market in the Algarve

Why they chose this property

Casa Clare is situated in what we believe is the best location in Alvor. Its close to superb restaurants and the marina, close (but not too close) to the pubs and night-life. The garden and roof terrace are a delight, a private haven so conveniently located

What makes this property unique

Casa Clare is on a pedestrian only street and away from the usual tourist accommodation but (a very short) walking distance from all the essential facilities including a superb range of restaurants. The neighbours are for the most part Portuguese, and are very welcoming.

Languages:

English