A stay begins at the resort on the edge of Alvor, with its garden grounds shaping the days between trips to the beach and time back in the suite. Alvor’s historic centre and beaches are about a kilometre and a half away, and a complimentary shuttle runs to the beach. Within the grounds are a long swimming pool, a Kids Club, a play area with a pirate ship and sports facilities that include padel courts. The 5 Senses SPA has a gym, a heated hydrotherapy pool, a Turkish bath, a sauna and massage services. Restaurants Blue and Green sit alongside bars, with an all-inclusive programme for meals. Suites have balconies and kitchenettes; the choices include Suite Classic, Suite Prestige, Suite Deluxe and Suite Club.