Charming T3

Information Booklet

We are honoured and delighted you have chosen to stay in our home in Old Village.

This manual contains all the information you need for enjoyment of your stay. You will find practical information about the amenities in the Old Village, a description of our home and the house rules, information on safety, use of domestic appliances, as well as some suggestions on places to visit in the Algarve. Please take the time to peruse the contents of this booklet at the onset of your stay. If you have any queries or concerns, please feel free to reach out anytime via the below contact details.

We wish you a great holiday!

Menu:

IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY

  • CALL 112
ADDRESS: RUA ALDEIA VELHA 2BC OLD VILLAGE,

VILAMOURA QUARTEIRA

For emergency services (ambulance, police, fire) please call 112 immediately, identify yourself and provide your location as indicated above.

Tell the emergency services to go to the last parking on the North-West side of Old Village, via Rua da Escócia / Scottish Road.

The location of the fire extinguisher and fire blanket are indicated on the Safety Card below. Exit the house as quickly as possible and ensure no-one is left behind. Contact us after calling 112.

Medical emergencies, available 24/7: +351 80 824 24 24.

Our phone numbers: +351 91 762 24 54 / +32 473 83 27 28.

SAFETY CARD

1st Floor

2st Floor

INTERNET

Throughout Old Village, you will find an open Wi-Fi network. We recommend you log on to our private network with the above details to enjoy fast and reliable internet service indoors as well. We urge a responsible, safe and appropriate use, compliant with all laws in place. If there is any loss of service, please contact us.

HOUSE RULES

1. The owner is not responsible for any accidents, injuries or illness that occur while on the premises or its facilities. The owner is not responsible for the loss of personal belongings or valuables of the guest. All guests expressly assume the risk of any harm arising from their use of the premises or any others they invite to use the premise.

2. All guest are required to show identification prior check-in and authorize the submission of a copy of their ID to the Portuguese border control authorities. In case of denial, check-in will be refused. Only guests that have previously registered at the reservation platform will be permitted in the property.

3. It is not allowed to smoke in the house and/or bring pets onto the premises. Doing so may result in forfeiture of some, or all, of the security deposit and possibly incur an additional fee. If you smoke at the balconies, make sure you dispose of the cigarette buts responsibly and avoid disturbing other guests.

4. People other than those in the guest party set forth above may not stay overnight in the apartment. Any person in/on the property is the sole responsibility of the guest.

5. Keep the property, its terraces and all furnishings in good order. Return items to their original location before leaving. Clean any spills and excessive cooking / grilling residues. Report any damage to the owner immediately. Upon check-out, please leave the property as you found it.

6. Only use furniture and appliances for their intended uses. The owner is not responsible for any damage to personal articles washed in the supplied washing machine.

7. Daily maid service is not included in the rental agreement but can be provided through FiveStar Lda if requested beforehand. Bed linen and towels as well as complimentary beach towels are provided.

8. Before going out, make sure to turn off all lights and air conditioning. For your safety, please lock the door behind you.

QUIET HOURS

23:00h to 08:00h

For the comfort and enjoyment of both guests and neighbours we request noise levels be kept to a minimum during quiet hours.
  • Check-in from 16:00h
  • Check-out until 10:00h
Please note that deviations from these times may be granted if the property is available, but always need to be requested and cannot be assumed.

OLD VILLAGE MAP

FIVE STAR

Five Star are a long-established property management, holiday rental and real estate agency in Old Village. 

As we don’t live permanently in Algarve, Five Star are our and your eyes and ears on the ground. Their excellent bilingual team support with the cleaning and preparation of the apartment, professional laundry services, and occasional ad hoc repairs. They can also arrange transportation to/from Faro. For any issue or request, we remain your primary point of contact.

  • Address: 7a Church Square, Old Village, Vilamoura, 8125-429 Quarteira
  • Phone: +351 289 302 762 / (Emergency: +351 965 392 755)

Opening Hours:

  • Summer
  • Mon-Fri: 09.00 – 18.00h
  • Sat: 09.00 – 13.00h
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Winter
  • Mon-Fri: 09:30 – 17:00h
  • Sat & Sun: Closed

HOUSE DESCRIPTION

1st Floor

  • To the left of the entrance door, you will find a lock box with a key. By email you will have received an access code valid for the duration of your stay. We recommend you directly replace the key after opening the door to always have a spare key at your disposal.
  • Inside, you will find one set of keys and three fobs. You will need a fob to access the swimming pools. Please make sure to return all keys and fobs at the end of your stay. Additional fees will be charged for lost keys or lock-outs. In case of issues, please contact us.
  • The First aid kit<strong<First Aid kit and the electrical panel board are found in the cupboard directly left after entering the hall.
  • The first bedroom has a retractable bed, a desk with chair, and a wardrobe. The second bedroom has two single beds and a wardrobe. Both rooms have AC and shutters. Be careful when opening the shutters to prevent hitting the outside furniture and make sure they slot into the locks so the wind cannot get a grip.
  • The bathroom has a toilet, washing basin, and a walk-in shower. A baby bath can be provided upon request. Please make sure to activate the built-in fan when showering and leave the door open for ventilation afterwards.
  • The master bedroom has a king-size bed and en-suite bathroom. There is a safe in the wardrobe that can be easily programmed to your personal code. The large windows can be opened at an angle when the doorknob is turned upwards and the door pulled backwards. Turning the knob sidewards will allow the doors to be opened completely. Please always secure the shutters.

2st Floor

  • The kitchen is equipped with an oven, microwave, induction cooking plate, extractor hood, 100L boiler, dishwasher, washing machine, fridge and freezer – all installed in 2024. Basic cleaning products are provided. A large broom and dustpan & broom are in the small high cupboard next to the oven/microwave.
  • The lounge area features a smart TV and Marshall sound system. The wall furniture has ample storage space, note that some drawers are pulled out. The cupboards with shelves need to be pushed at the top left corner to open.
  • Nearly all plants in the house and on the terraces are real. However, they need water only sparsely. They are watered by FiveStar. Please do not additionally water them to avoid they’re getting too much.
  • An ironing board, iron, and drying rack are provided. A baby cot with bed linen and a baby bath can be provided upon request.
  • Please be careful on the stairs to the rooftop, always holding the handrail when going up or down. You are welcome to use the barbeque (churrasqueira); tools are provided in the kitchen. Pease ensure the fire is fully extinguished and clean the barbeque afterwards.

GARBAGE DISPOSAL

Guests are responsible for the disposal of their garbage during and at the end of their stay.

The Portuguese system distinguishes four types of garbage:

  • General household waste
  • Plastic and metal
  • Glass
  • Paper and board
Separate bins are provided for each of these types at the three garbage points serving Old Village, indicated on the below image. The points can be accessed 24/7, but please be considerate of the neighbours.

ELECTRICAL PANEL

The electrical panel is situated on the right-hand side of the main door. If one of the household appliances fails to work or if there isn’t electricity in one on the rooms, please check first whether any of the switches is/are down. If so, you should turn the respective switch back up. In case of a general power failure, press the black button on the left side main switch.
The electrical panel is situated on the right-hand side of the main door. If one of the household appliances fails to work or if there isn’t electricity in one on the rooms, please check first whether any of the switches is/are down. If so, you should turn the respective switch back up. In case of a general power failure, press the black button on the left side main switch.
  • 1 - General Power switch
  • 2 - General Thermo switch
  • 3 - Lights 1st floor
  • 4 - Lights 2st floor
  • 5 - Doorbell
  • 6 - Washing Machine
  • 7 - Kitchen power outlets
  • 8 - Microwave and Oven
  • 9 - 2nd floor power outlets
  • 10 - Ceramic hot plate
  • 11 - 1st floor power outlets
  • 12 - 1st floor power outlets
  • 13 - Bathrooms power outlets
  • 14 - Thermo switch

HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES

The property is fully equipped with all the appliances you need to have an enjoyable and comfortable stay. The following appliances are available for your use:
  • Wi-Fi modem
  • Toaster
  • Hairdryer
  • Iron and ironing board

MICROWAVE

Microwave Function

  • To open the microwave, press the automatic door opener at the bottom [1] and the appliance springs open
  • Select the required power level (90-800W)
  • Set the required time by sliding over the bars in the Settings area [3]
  • Press Start

Grill Function

  • Select the grill icon
  • Set the time
  • Press start

ELECTRIC OVEN

1. Use the function selector to set the heating function.

2. Use the temperature selector to set the temperature or the grill setting

To make sure you use the right type of heating to cook your food, please refer to the types of heating and their usages below.

Temperature indicator

The temperature symbol fills with colour as the appliance heats. The optimal time to place your food in the oven is as soon as the symbol is completely filled with colour.

INDUCTION HOT PLATE

How to operate the hot plate

  • 1. To turn the hob on, press the power button for about 1 second.
  • 2. Locate the desired cooking zone by referring to the position symbols.
  • 3. Activate cooking zone. Select the zone you want to use by pressing the corresponding zone selection button. The display will show level “0”. Use the + or – buttons to choose the correct setting (see table).
  • 4. Deactivate cooking zone. Select the zone to be switched off by pressing the corresponding zone selection button, and then reduce the level to “0”.
  • 5. To turn the hob off, press the On/Off button and all cooking zones will be deactivated.

FRIDGE AND FREEZER

Things to know

  • 1. The recommended temperature in the refrigerator compartment is 4ºC.
  • 2. Store highly perishable food such as fish, sausages and meat in the coldest zone, which is located between the arrow stamped on the side and the shelf underneath.
  • 3. Store food that does not spoil easily in the warmest zone, e.g. hard cheese and butter. Cheese can then continue to release its aroma and the butter will still be easy to spread. The warmest zone is at the very top of the door.
  • 4. Open the fridge only briefly to maintain the inside temperature.
  • 5. Never cover of block the interior or exterior ventilation openings.
  • 6. Please remove your products from the fridge and freezer upon check-out.
  • Please pay attention to closing the door of the fridge well. You may need to give it a gentle extra push at the left bottom-hand corner to make sure the door is really closed.
Please pay attention to closing the door of the fridge well. You may need to give it a gentle extra push at the left bottom-hand corner to make sure the door is really closed.

WASHING MACHINE

How to operate

  • 1. Turn the programme selector to set the required programme (see below)
  • 2. Load the laundry, add the detergent and close the door
  • 3. Press Inicio/Pause + Carga
  • 4. The drum will rotate to weigh the load to optimise the programme. It may take up to 2 minutes before water enters the drum.
  • 5. After the programme has ended, the display shows: End.

Explanation of the display icons

Recommended programmes

  • For large loads (up to 8kg) of fabrics made from cotton, linen or blended fabrics which can be washed up to 60ºC, we recommend to use ECO 40-60. In this programme, the washing temperature is automatically adjusted depending on the load size, to achieve the best possible energy efficiency with the best possible washing result.
  • For medium-sized washings (up to 4kg), use Sinteticos or Mix which go up to 40ºC and spin at 1200 and 1400 rpm respectively.
  • For delicate washing (up to 2kg), use the Delicado (delicate), Lana (wool) or Camisas/Blusas (blouses) programmes
  • If you want to run a short programme for small items of lightly soiled laundry, select Rapido (Super Quick) 15/30 min. The duration is approximately 30 minutes. If you wish to reduce to 15 minutes, active Speed Perfect. The maximum load is reduced to 2kg.

DISWASHER

Programmes

  • Please review below overview to ensure you’re selecting the right programme for your purpose. They differ significantly in duration, water and energy consumption.
  • We recommend to use the Eco 50ºC as your default. Use the Silence programme to run at night. It takes longer but is extremely quiet.
  • Duration in hrs: mins
  • Energy consumption in kWh
  • Water consumption in litres

NESPRESSO COFFEE MAKER

Preparing coffee

  • 1. Rinse, then fill, the water tank with potable (tap water or mineral) water. The water tank can be carried by its cover.
  • 2. Switch the machine on. Blinking light = heating up, approx. 25 seconds. Steady light = ready.
  • 3. Lift the lever completely and insert the capsule.
  • 4. Close the lever and place a cup under the coffee outlet.
  • 5. During heat up, you can press the coffee button when it’s still blinking. The coffee will then flow automatically when the machine is ready.
  • 6. For a Latte Macchiato glass, fold the cup support into the upright position. It will automatically lower when the glass is removed.
  • 7. Press the Espresso (40 ml) or the Lungo (110 ml) button. Preparation will stop automatically. To stop the coffee flow or top up your coffee, press again.
  • 8. Take the cup. Lift and close the lever to eject the capsule into the used capsule container.

Troubleshoot

  • Front light is red → The water tank is empty or needs to be cleaned.
  • Coffee not hot enough → Preheat the cup. Descale the machine if necessary.
  • Lever does not close completely → Empty the capsule container. Check that there is not a capsule blocked inside the machine.
  • Machine switches itself off → To save energy, the machine will turn itself off after 9 minutes of non-use.
  • Leakage or unusual coffee flow → Check that the water tank is in position.

Capsules

Please only use Nespresso capsules or capsules explicitly stated as compatible with Nespresso machines. The Old Village supermarket sells Buondi capsules which are compatible.

TV REMOTE CONTROL

  • On/Off button

How to switch on the smart TV:

  • 1. Switch on the TV by pressing the On/Off button on the TV remote control.
  • 2. Select the app “Live TV” to have access to the cable channels.
  • 3. Press the P+ or P- buttons to change channel selection up and down and press the V+ or V- buttons to increase or decrease the volume.
  • 4. To switch off, press the On/Off buttons on of remote control.
  • The remote control allows direct access to channels like Netflix and Disney+. You are welcome to use these providers with your own account, but please remember to log off before checking-out to avoidothers to continue using it.
The remote control allows direct access to channels like Netflix and Disney+. You are welcome to use these providers with your own account, but please remember to log off before checking-out to avoidothers to continue using it.

SOUND SYSTEM

Bluetooth pairing

  • 1. Use the source button (2) to select Bluetooth
  • 2. Push and hold the source button until the Bluetooth LED pulses red
  • 3. Selection ACTON III from your audio device’s Bluetooth list

The sound system can be connected to two Bluetooth devices at the same time. If a connected device is playing, a second connected device cannot start playing until the first device is paused.

AIR CONDITIONERS LIVING ROOM AND BEDROOMS

You can quickly start operation by following 3 steps:

1. Press the Start/Stop button
  • The indoor unit’s Operation indicator Lamp (green) will light.
  • The air conditioner will start operating.
2. Press the MODE button to select AUTO mode
  • Press the button consecutively until you reach the AUTO mode.
3. Press the SET TEMP button
  • Press to raise the thermostat setting.
  • Press to lower the thermostat setting.

Use the COOL mode during summer or when it is hot in the apartment. We recommend to set the temperature to 21℃ and keep it constant. The room will cool down after some time and the AC will function much better than when you set it at lower temperatures.

Use HEAT mode during winter or when it is cold in the apartment. We recommend to set the temperature to 23℃ and keep it constant. The rooms will warm up after some time.

  • Be patient when you switch on the air conditioning, the unit will operate at low fan speed for 3-5 minutes, after which it will switch to the selected setting.
Be patient when you switch on the air conditioning, the unit will operate at low fan speed for 3-5 minutes, after which it will switch to the selected setting.
  • Please switch off all AC’s when you leave the property for a longer period, and especially when checking out.
Please switch off all AC’s when you leave the property for a longer period, and especially when checking out.

THE OLD VILLAGE

Amenities

The Old Village resort was developed in the late 1980’s. It consists of 180 privately owned quality apartments and townhouses, set in picturesque and beautifully maintained gardens. The resort has various amenities, as detailed on these pages.

Jafers supermarket

The Jafers supermarket is conveniently open year-round:

  • Monday to Friday: 8.00 – 20.00h
  • Saturday and Sunday: 8.30 – 19.30h
Items include fresh bread, fruit and vegetables, fresh and frozen meals, beer and wines, toiletries and more.

Village Bakery

At Village Bakery on the Village Square just next to the apartment, you can enjoy freshly baked bread, croissants, pastries and tapas. The offer can be eaten on the terrace or taken away. There’s a comfortable outdoor seating area open throughout the season.

Casa do Largo

Casa do Largo is the a-la-carte restaurant on the central square of Old Village. Whether you’re looking to have lunch, afternoon tea, early appetizers, a family happening, romantic dinner or even to get married, this place has it all. Open daily from 9.30am.

Bar o Café

Whether you’re starting the day with Full English breakfast or closing well after midnight with a cocktail, Bar o Café is your local pub. It has large TV screens with live sports games and music, as well as take-aways. Special family deals and happy hour throughout the season.

Village Café

Village Café offers a wide range of snacks throughout the day and has an extensive wine, cocktail and champagne menu. Located in the centre of the Old Village near the supermarket. Open daily (except Sunday) from 9.00am until late.

Artisan

The Artisan is a stylish restaurant and cocktail bar beautifully set overlooking the Small Pool. Dine in the magnificent restaurant on the first floor or enjoy a cocktail or drink in the luxurious bar. Dinner reservations are a good idea in high season: tel. +351 935 432 074.

Jakk's

Jakk’s is another local friendly bar, next to the Village Bakery. It serves a range of cocktails, beers and champagne. Happy hour is available and Live Music is provided on selected evenings.

Pools

There are three pools in the village, all available to all guests. The pools are open during early April to late September. The pools are accessed with the three black fobs you find in the hall of the house. Please ensure to return the fobs at the end of your stay.

Small Pool

The Small Pool is located on the south side of Old Village. It is deep and has no facilities other than comfortable sun-beds, making it most suitable for rest-seeking adults.

Dolphin Pool

The Dolphin Pool can be found on the North-Eastern side of the village. The pool features a bar, a restroom, a pool table and light music. The sunbed area got extended early 2024.

Main Pool

The Main Pool in the centre of the village is the largest. It has an excellent shallow section for children, a bar with extensive food service served all day, and a small shop with some swimming toys for children.
  • To ensure that all guests can enjoy a sun bed, please note that a €2 charge is levied per person per half day, payable upon entrance.
To ensure that all guests can enjoy a sun bed, please note that a €2 charge is levied per person per half day, payable upon entrance.

EXPLORING ALGARVE

Western Algarve

The southern side of the western Algarve is known for its coastline of stunning rock formations and many beautiful beaches. The sea water is warmer than on the western coast, which is known as the Costa Vicentina.
A few highlights:
  • Sagres sits at the extreme western tip of the Algarve and on the edge of mainland Europe. This is an area of barren, windswept landscapes, towering cliffs and raging seas. When you visit the beautiful Cabo de Sao Vincente with its lighthouse and old fortifications, make sure to bring a sweater!
  • Costa Vicentina north of Sagres is characterised by a rugged, unspoiled landscape unlike anywhere else in the Algarve. Since the ocean here is rough, it is very popular among surfers, especially places such as Carrapateira and Bordeira.
  • Lagos is a beautiful and fascinating city steeped in history, as is reflected in its variety of historical monuments and buildings. Make sure to visit the Santo Antonio church, the Mercado dos Escravos(Europe’s first slave market) and the 17th century Bandeira Fort. The Lagos marina and harbourfront further make for excellent strolling. 
  • Ponta da Piedade is a stunning rock formation formed hundreds of millions of years ago, that can be visited by boat or kayak easily booked at one of many tour providers on Lagos’ boulevard. 
  • The Lagos Zoo is open year-round, well cared for, and particularly suited for families with younger children. 
  • Praia dos Três Irmãos is one of the best beaches in the Western Algarve and your go to spot for a day of sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. The beach, consisting of four small coves/bays, is surrounded by different rock formations that protect it from the sun and the wind. In the water there are also three impressive rocks (the ‘three brothers’). 
  • Praia da Luz and Burgau are traditional resort towns worth a visit. 

Central Algarve

Lying in the vibrant heart of the Algarve, Vilamoura is an excellent base to explore the region. Central Algarve offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, world-class amenities, and easy access to both the eastern and western parts of the Algarve.
In Central Algarve, you may want to explore:
  • Faro Old Town & Sé Cathedral. Administrative capital of the Algarve, home to a population of 60.000 residents, Faro is often overlooked as a day trip destination. But it’s more than worth it! For one, the cathedral is astonishing. Make sure to climb the tower which offers views of the old town and onto the lagoon.
  • The waters of the lagoon of the Ria Formosa Natural Park are best explored by boat. Along the boulevard, there is a large offer of boat trips and excursions to e.g. the Farol and Deserta islands. The inexpensive ferry to Faro Beach (30-45’) will also give you a good impression of the lagoon. The beach boasts long stretches of soft, golden sand and crystal-clear waters. There are plenty of nearby restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes as well as a variety of other options.
  • Algar Seco | Benagil Cave – a stunning rock formation located in Carvoeira. The majestic cliffs are estimated to be 50-60 meters high. The top of Algar Seco offers views over Carvoeira beach, one of Portugal’s most beautiful sandy beaches.
  • Praia da Falésia and Praia da Marinha are famous beaches in the area.
  • Albufeira is the largest and most popular beach resort town in the Algarve. Possibly best known for its nightlife along the lively “Strip” and concerts in summer, Albufeira has a nice historic town worth visiting during the day as well.
  • Loulé is a charming inland town known for its historical castle and popular weekly market.
  • If you like seafood but not the Vilamoura prices, we recommend you head to neighbouring Quarteira which has plenty of great options.

Eastern Algarve

Lying in the vibrant heart of the Algarve, Vilamoura is an excellent base to explore the region. Central Algarve offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, world-class amenities, and easy access to both the eastern and western parts of the Algarve.
We highly recommend an exploration of:
  • Tavira, a charming town that boasts a rich history and well-preserved architecture. Stroll through its historic old town, characterised by cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful azulejos (Portuguese ceramic tiles), and a medieval castle that offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
  • Tavira Island, a haven for birdwatchers. The access to Tavira Island is provided by boats from Quatro Águas peer in Tavira.
  • Olhão, a picturesque fishing village known for its bustling fish market and Moorish-style architecture. Visit the Mercado Municipal de Olhão to witness the vibrant daily fish auction and explore stalls filled with fresh seafood. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, dine in one of the many seafood restaurants, or take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands and sandbanks.
  • Cacela Velha, a hidden gem in the Eastern Algarve. This small, whitewashed village is perched on a hill overlooking the Ria Formosa and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. At low tide, you can walk to or from the outstanding beach.
  • Fuseta, a charming fishing village with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches. The Praia da Fuseta, located on an island accessible by a short ferry ride, is a peaceful haven with golden sands and calm waters. The village itself is also worth exploring, with its colorful buildings and lively market.
  • Hidden in the Algarve’s hinterland, the Pego do Inferno is a hidden gem known for its crystal-clear emerald-green pools and waterfalls. This natural oasis is tucked away in a lush forest, offering a refreshing escape from the coastal heat.
  • Castro Marim on the border with Spain, a picturesque municipality with a 14th century castle.