Hotel Belavista Da Luz

We are frequent visitors to the Belavista and have always enjoyed our stays. The hotel has had some renovations which has made SOME improvements. The baths have been replaced with large showers which is brilliant. The white goods have been replaced but there have been some corners cut as all the old tiles remain on the walls and around the sink area. Some of the tiles are even cracked. The rooms have been improved but there’s no mirror other than the one in the bathroom and the storage had been reduced.
They are also down to only one lift which is fine providing it works otherwise people in wheelchairs and with buggies would struggle.
One major disappointment is the breakfast. Previously it has been brilliant and catered to everyone’s needs. However, this is no longer the case. Sausages, beans and potatoes are now off the menu. The only hot options are egg, bacon, mushroom and tomatoes. You are also expected to only use a side plate. The normal sized plates have been removed. When asked if we could have a normal plate to make cutting food easier etc it was refused. I think they’re trying to get us to eat less breakfast and they’re succeeding with the lack of hot food options and tiny plates.
You can also no longer “pay as you go” at the pool bar or in the restaurant. You have to run a tab to your room which I personally do not like to do.
Lastly, they forgot to mention, they are still actually renovating and the noise and drilling have been fairly constant. The price definitely wasn’t any cheaper considering they’re still completing loud works.
Overall, we are considering if we will return again or look for an alternative option in Luz.

Hotel has been renovated in lots of ways from a previous stay.
Everywhere is clean and lots of improvements to update this hotel, but obviously money is tight and corners have been cut.
In our room there were no tissues, flannels, slippers, bathrobe etc. and an extreme lack of cupboard space to store your items. The room seemed bare and not inviting. Pillows are hard foam and very uncomfortable. Bed linen and towels were great though.
Pool area is lovely, but sunbeds are not cushioned so can be very uncomfortable. You exchange one swimming pool towel at reception each day. Receptionist lady from Romania was an absolute delight, always smiley and welcoming, and would call out each day with a happy greeting. Unfortunately, most of the other staff (apart from the delightful tall Portuguese gentleman who ran the pool bar), always seemed like they were having a bad day, and would win a prize for being rude and uninterested. No apologies ever from the other lady receptionist for keeping you waiting for 10 minutes while she chats on the phone in Portuguese, and never a "hello" or a"good morning ", just always a stare or glare.
The gentleman who runs the breakfast area is a strange character too. Never acknowledges you, unless you upset him, and he is easily upset. I picked up a glass from the dining room to get some orange juice, and he barked " No, that is on your table, just food here!"
It was my first day and everyday he appeared to have the same chip on his shoulder. I was told he had worked in the hotel for many years, so perhaps he just likes things being done his way, otherwise easily upset.
He actually reminded me of John Cleese from Fawlty Towers!
Food kept running out and not quickly replaced. He was so grumpy I would rather go without rather than ask for items to be replenished. If you ask for anything that is not on the table, expect to wait 10 minutes. I think it gets cooked but he doesn't bother to collect it from the kitchen (as often cold when you receive it).
Would I stay there again? No, thumbs down I'm afraid, as there are lots of other places around that actually appreciate your custom and treat you well. This wasn't a cheap stay at £160 a night b & b

This is a really well located hotel. I had a very chilled stay. Gorgeous pool and garden, super friendly staff throughout the hotel. Room was spacious, nice veranda, fluffy towels and firm bed. Full breakfast was excellent, they went all out to cater vegan options.

Nice little hotel in a quiet location but not too far from the beach, bars and restaurants in Praia da Luz. Very tidy and big rooms, which are a little dated but everything working and in order. We just booked breakfast and it was the best full English I have ever had abroad. Nice pool with gardens and pool bar. Would stay there again

We have been visiting The Bella Vista hotel for many years, experiencing many wonderful holidays.
The hotel changed ownership before COVID but many of the original staff remain. We visited again in 2022 and have just returned after spending eleven days there. Elke on Reception who has worked there many years gave us a warm welcome, and all the Reception staff are very helpful. The hotel was still spotless with the rooms cleaned daily, and towels and bedding changed regularly it was nice to see staff who have worked there for many years. We found the pool area very quiet during the day but drinks and food available until six in the evening. Breakfast is all self service but the food is still very good both hot and cold selection with ample choice (special requests were catered for) the waiter service( Manuel and Co) are excellent and always very pleasant.
The Al a Cart evening restaurant food was very good and well presented though a more varied menu would be appreciated. Looking forward to next year to see the new indoor pool!!