Address

Quintassential, Loule, Faro, Portugal

Accommodation & Outdoor Amenities

The Carob Cottageis one of the newer apartment cottages available and the sunniest of the 4 accommodations available and is a peaceful relaxing hideaway.  The Carob Cottage is a light and airy one bedroom apartment cottage ideal for couples or families with a small child. 

The bedroom is large with a double bed, and is also large enough to accommodate a child’s single sofa bed or cot. There is a digital security safe, sloping ceilings & patio doors leading on to the south-facing sun terrace. The bedroom is tastefully decorated to very high standard in vibrant colours, beautiful throw and crisp bed linen to compliment the décor. The bedroom also has a free standing fan and a 19 inch Toshiba LCD TV with DVD player.

The Carob Cottage has a modern bathroom with shower, washbasin with vanity unit under, bidet, WC and shaver point.

The spacious open plan kitchen lounge/diner is decorated tastefully and has a large comfy leather sofa and is simple yet lacks nothing.  The lounge has a 32 inch Samsung flat screen LCD TV Satellite TV (UK free to view channels), DVD player (small selection of DVDs available) and a mini stereo Hi-Fi with radio/CD player and MP3 reader (guests to bring own CD’s). There is a large selection of English reading books, puzzles, chess set and playing cards.  There are patio doors leading onto a private south-facing terrace with a table and chairs, reclining chairs and your own brick built BBQ. You will easily enjoy the sun on this terrace into late evening.

The kitchenette is modern and comed fully equipped and comprises of a fridge with freezer compartment, combi microwave oven, electric kettle, toaster, coffee filter machine, hand held electric blender and electric hob.

The Carob Cottage also has the added benefit of gas central heating for those cooler winter months.  The price for the heating is already included in the tariff. Details of the set heating times will be provided at the time of booking enquiry.

The Carob Cottage sleeps a maximum of two adults and a child.

Children are welcome and we do everything possible to ensure that families with children have a holiday that is both fun and relaxing. We understand that holidaying with children and babies can be stressful at times from deciding what to pack or not, to sleeping arrangements and protecting them from the sun.  With children of our own we know how important it is to keep kids happy & entertained on holiday, within a safe & secure environment. The Quintassential is totally fenced & accessed via electric gates, so a very safe place. There is a lot of space for children to play and to discover nature, play with Alfie, Max and Indie our children loving dog, we have three dogs and one very old cat in total. 

There’s a whole range of activities for young ones from the fantastic Zoomarine where you can swim with the dolphins, to Aquashow the best water park in the Algarve, Family Golf park in Vilamoura, karting and all the water activities on the fabulous Algarve beaches and highly recommended sea dolphin watching, a truly superb day out.

The accommodations are all separated from the pool area, the pool area is enclosed & gated to give parents of toddlers that extra piece of mind.  All the baby/toddler friendly accommodations also have fencing around their terraces for the added security.

We have something for all age groups with a children’s play area available designed for little ones situated on a large lawned area alongside an orange grove.  There is a slide, swings, seesaw, playhouse, toddler slide, toddler trampoline etc, this area adds an exciting dimension for all the visiting children & keeps them occupied for hours.  There is also a seating area for adults to relax, unwind and top up their tans. For older children (and adults) we also have a Cornellieu professional size table tennis table & 12ft trampoline.

For babies we have baby paddling pools to use on our pool terrace or your accommodations private terraceand we have endless buckets and spades to take to the beach.

We do not charge for children under the age of 2 & can provide a range of equipment for babies and toddlers free of charge, meaning you can travel lighter! The following equipment can be made available to all our guests on request:

• Large Travel Cot with linen and comfy mattresses  - three available
• Mamas & Papas Moses Basket with linen – for babies up to 6 – 8 weeks of age – one available
• High chair – three available
• Baby Ergo 2 stage bath with towels – two available
• Chicco Reclining chair (up to 3 months) with attachable activity toy – one available
• Bouncy Chair (up to 6 months) – one available
• Floor activity centre with arch (up to 8 months) – two available
• Feeding equipment - children's cutlery, bowls, cups etc – each accommodation has a selection
• Chicco electric steam bottle steriliser – one available
• Microwave bottle steriliser – one available
• Lindam Playpen – one available – only for use in the Orange Cottage
• Electric hand blender – each cottage has one available
• Changing mat – three available
• Potty – three available
• Child toilet seat and step – one available
• Toilet seat – one available
• Baby Dan Bed Guard – two available for use in Orange Cottage with twin beds
• Baby umbrella stroller (from 6 - 18  months, no sun shade or rain cover) – one available
• Fisher Price Baby listening intercom system with walkabout handset – for use in Orange Cottage
• Avent Phillips Baby listening intercom system with walkabout handset – for use in Lemon & Carob Cottages – one available
• Galt Baby Nest – from 3 months to 9 months of age – one available
• Bumbu seat – one available – from 6 months of age
• Portable high chair for restaurant use (up to 18 months) – one available
• Baby Polar on the go baby seat – one available
• Baby sit in pool floats (up to 18 months) – two available
• Baby paddling pools (up to 12 months) – two available
• Toddler paddling pool with sun shade (from 12 – 18 months) – one available
• Satellite TV (CBeebies!) and other children’s channels  - Lemon, Carob and Orange Cottages have Satellite TV
• Small selection of videos and DVD’s
• Selection of preschool toys – from 6 to 18 months of age – two available
• V-Tech First Steps baby walker – one available
• Cool bags with Ice Packs
• Beach Parasols – each accommodations have a couple

We are also pleased to be able to provide baby welcome packs.  The Quintassential would like to give you the opportunity to make your holiday with small children run as smoothly as possible.

The exclusive Baby Welcome Pack service is designed to reduce the stress of traveling with young children, reduce the amount of extra luggage needed & eliminate the difficulty of searching for familiar baby products in another country. 

For further information regarding which products are available, please refer to our website.

We are also pleased to announce a baby sitting/child minding service from a British qualified nanny/nursery assistant.

Local Amenities and Activities

The cottage is ideally located in the central Algarve, an excellent base to explore from.

For those who like to walk and bird watch, specialised tailor made holidays can be arranged.

Check in / Check out times

Check in time after 15.00 hours local time GMT

Check out time no later than 10.00 hours local time GMT

Airports / Sea Ports / Other Transport

Faro International Airport - 17 kms

Lisbon International Airport - 326 kms

Loule train station - 7 kms

Loule bus station - 2 kms

Driving directions (from airport or sea port)

Full directions will be provided at the time of booking confirmation.

Policies & Disclaimers

THE QUINTASSENTIAL BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Please read the following Terms and Conditions carefully before you book, as these, together with the Essential Information which is provided further below, form the basis of your contract with The Quintassential, our obligations and your commitments are detailed below. Should you have any questions regarding these Terms and Conditions, please do not hesitate to ask. Your contract is with the Quintassential the accommodation owners.

1.BOOKING AND CONFIRMATION

When you make a booking with The Quintassential you accept on behalf of your travelling party these terms and conditions.  By doing so you also guarantee that you have the authority to accept these terms and conditions on behalf of your party. An agreement between you and The Quintassential will be made once we are in receipt of your non-refundable 30% deposit, or full payment and returnable damages deposit for the accommodation if your booking is within 6 weeks of arrival. The Quintassential will issue you with a confirmation invoice detailing all the elements of your booking. It is your responsibility to check this carefully as any changes subsequently made to your booking will be treated as an amendment or cancellation and maybe subject to a charge. If special requests have been made by you at the time of booking, and these are not confirmed by The Quintassential at this juncture, such requests will not be guaranteed. You must check carefully the booking confirmation details forwarded to you by The Quintassential and all documentation provided to you (including these booking conditions) and contact us immediately if you think any details we give you are inaccurate. The person who makes or pays for the booking must be at least 18 years old. We reserve the right to refuse single sex groups and group bookings.  You must make The Quintassential aware at the time of booking if you are a single sex group or if you wish to book more than one of the accommodations.  Single sex couples are welcome at The Quintassential.

2. BALANCE PAYMENT

The balance of the price of your accommodation must be paid no later than six weeks prior to your arrival. A reminder will be sent to you seven weeks prior to arrival, and if you fail to pay within two weeks of our reminder, we reserve the right to keep your deposit and re-let the accommodation. The due date will be clearly stated on your booking confirmation invoice, if the balance is not paid by the due date, The Quintassential reserve the right to cancel your booking and retain your deposit. If you pay for your holiday using a credit or debit card via PayPal, there will be a 5% handling charge, however should you make your payment via bank transfer into The Quintassential bank account, there is no charge for payment.  Once your balance payment in full along with your returnable damages deposit is received, a receipt will be sent to you along with detailed directions from Faro International Airport to The Quintassential.

3. ACCOMMODATION PRICE GUARANTEE

The price of your holiday accommodation booked with The Quintassential will not be subject to any surcharges after our confirmation invoice has been issued. If you obtain a quote from The Quintassential for a booking but do not book it at the time, The Quintassential reserves the right to increase or decrease the price at any time before you book. The prices quoted are per accommodation per week for the number of people stated. Car hire prices are quoted per week. Airport transfer prices and any additional service costs are quoted on an individual basis. All prices are quoted in UK GBP Pound Sterling (unless otherwise stated).

4. AMENDMENTS TO YOUR ACCOMMODATION BOOKING BY YOU

If you wish to make any changes to your accommodation reservation after it has been confirmed this must be communicated to The Quintassential as soon as possible and in writing.  Unless The Quintassential receives the change requests in writing, The Quintassential has no obligation to honour if appropriate the requested changes.

5. AMENDMENTS TO YOUR BOOKING BY THE QUINTASSENTIAL

We reserve the right to change any accommodation details, including the price, before you book in which case we will tell you before the holiday agreement between you and The Quintassential effect.

Accommodation reservations are made on the understanding that the accommodation will be available for the dates you have booked. If however, due to circumstances beyond the The Quintassential’s control, this is not possible, every effort will be made to provide alternative accommodation. Failing this, The Quintassential will make a prompt and full refund of all monies paid and there will be no claim against The Quintassential. In the event of the accommodation reservation being cancelled or altered by reason of force majeure (war, threat of war, riots, civil strife, terrorist activity, closure of airports and ports, closure of car hire depots, unforeseen local building works or road works, industrial disputes, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, adverse weather conditions, level of water in rivers or similar events beyond our control) or other events outside The Quintassential’s control, The Quintassential cannot accept any liability. If any person within the travelling party falls ill whilst on holiday or for any reason and has to return to their home address early, The Quintassential cannot be held responsible for any additional costs nor will any part of the rental charge be returned.

6. CANCELLATION BY YOU

You, or any member of your travelling party, may cancel your accommodation booking at any time providing that the cancellation is made by the same person who made the accommodation booking and is communicated to us in writing. As this incurs administrative costs, we will retain your deposit and in addition will apply cancellation charges as shown below:

Less than 42 days 100%

7. CANCELLATION MADE BY THE QUINTASSENTIAL

We reserve the right in any circumstances to cancel your holiday accommodation reservation. However, in no case will we cancel your holiday accommodation reservation less than 6 weeks prior to your arrival except for reasons of force majeure or failure on your part to pay the final balance.

8. INSURANCE

You are strongly advised to have adequate insurance cover before you travel.  It is your responsibility to ensure any policy meets your needs, including the cost of cancellation by you and assistance overseas if you suffer accident or illness. Even with travel insurance, the individuals in your party may still need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Please take this and your travel insurance policy with you on holiday.

9. FLIGHTS AND TIMES

At the time of booking confirmation, The Quintassential requests details of your arrival and departure flights.  This information is required to ensure a smooth changeover of arriving and departing guests.  This also enables The Quintassential to check for any flight delays. 

10. PASSPORTS, VISAS AND HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

British citizens require a valid full passport; visas are not required for travel to Portugal. If you do not have valid documents you will not be able to travel. For citizens of other countries, up to date information on passport, visa and health requirements should be obtained from the Portuguese Embassy.   It is highly advisable to bring a copy of your passport with you on holiday in the event of loss/damage during your stay and also a proof of identity whilst holidaying in Portugal.

11. YOUR ACCOMMODATION AND SAFETY

You undertake to accept the holiday accommodation you have requested to book and to take responsibility and exercise uttermost care in respect of your accommodation and its equipment and facilities. You must also not danger and compliance is always with respect to local regulations. The accommodation provided must only be used by the number of persons shown on your booking confirmation and subletting, sharing or assignment is prohibited. The maximum number of occupants for your holiday accommodation as detailed in our descriptions and our booking agreement should under no circumstances be exceeded. The Quintassential will refuse admission or evict as necessary to comply with this condition. Likewise, if you are, or appear to be, behaving in such a way as to cause disturbance or annoyance to third parties, or causing damage to the property, The Quintassential may terminate your holiday accommodation agreement. In this situation The Quintassential will have no further liability to you and you will be responsible for any extra expense you incur as a result. You will also be responsible for meeting any claims for damage or breakages.  All security deposits will also be forfeited.

12. RENTAL PERIOD

The rental period for your booked holiday accommodation will commence from 15.00 hours local time on the agreed date of arrival until 10.00 hours local time on the agree date of departure. Guests should not expect to be able to arrive earlier or leave later.

13. COMPLAINTS

In the unlikely event that you do encounter a problem with your accommodation, you must immediately notify The Quintassential. If there is an identified problem at your holiday accommodation, it is the responsibility of The Quintassential to rectify any problem and allowances must be made by you for any local conditions regarding the reasonable time taken to rectify the problem. The Quintassential reserve the right not to deal with any complaints received more than 28 days after your departure.  Any complaints must be received in writing.

14. LIABILITY

The Quintassential cannot, under any circumstance, be held responsible by you or any member of your travelling party, for any and all personal injuries, damage to your booked holiday accommodation or car hire during your rental, or theft arising out of or connected in any way to your rental of our property/car hire.

The person who has made the accommodation booking is responsible of any degradation on the booked holiday accommodation and its contents by his fault or by a member of his travelling party or by one of his guests.

The Quintassential is in no way liable.

15. GENERAL

Accommodation bookings are made subject to the terms and conditions of The Quintassential.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

The following information is not intended to put you off, but is an honest guide to the way of life in Portugal. As at home, things occasionally go wrong, and whilst we feel The Quintassential accommodations will provide the perfect holiday accommodation, we cannot guarantee that things won't happen that are beyond our control.

OUR PROPERTIES

We have a varied selection of properties, a rustic two bedroom apartment cottage that sleeps 4 adults and an infant, a rustic one bedroom cottage that sleeps 2 adults and two newer one bedroom accommodations that each sleeps 2 adults and a child, all share the swimming pool and other communal facilities at The Quintassential. The Quintassential will not accept group bookings, and should you wish to occupy more than one accommodation, you must request this at the time of booking enquiry. The Quintassential has spent a great deal of time ensuring that all the information provided on our website is as accurate as possible, but please do ask if there is anything specific you would like to know about an individual property.  All the accommodations at The Quintassential have the required “Alojamento Local” Licence (AL) as required by the Portuguese rental law.  All the properties at The Quintassential have been visited by the local council and are inspected regularly to ensure that they are up to health and safety standards.  Please note; The Quintassential does not accept single sex bookings or group bookings (although couples are welcome).   If you have a single sex party or you are a group booking requiring to accommodate more than one property, it is imperative to check with us before making a booking.

PROPERTY LOCATION

Please bear in mind that some of the roads in Portugal may not be as good as those in the UK or northern Europe and to some our accommodations may seem to be off the beaten track, however, The Quintassential is only 2 kms north of the market town of Loule and access to the Quintassential is now via a tarmac road. As the location of our properties is outside of the main town, we do not have a road name.   Full written directions are provided from Faro International Airport to The Quintassential with your balance payment receipt, five weeks prior to arrival. However, with the increased numbers of tourists every year to the Algarve, this has meant the local councils improving their main road infra-structure, and for those now choosing to stay a little more inland and experiencing the beautiful countryside and local hospitality, it is now not too far to reach the beautiful Algarvian beaches and coastal amenities.

ADVERTISED ACCOMMODATIONS

Each of the accommodations at The Quintassential is owned by the owners of The Quintassential, and furnished to the owner’s personal taste. All the accommodations at The Quintassential are licensed with “Alojamento Local” as required by the Portuguese Rental Law. All descriptions of the accommodations are intended as a guide to assist you in choosing the right accommodation for you. Where The Quintassential states that a bed is a double, it means they are regular standard sized UK double beds. All the bathrooms at the Quintassential have a shower, shower room, WC and washbasin as a minimum. The Quintassential states that "Car Hire Essential" mainly due to its position 1200 feet above sea level. The distances quoted in the accommodation descriptions on the website are approximate and intended as a guide only.

EQUIPMENT

All accommodation at The Quintassential are equipped with a fridge or fridge/freezer, combi microwave oven, toaster, kettle, coffee maker, iron and ironing board and sufficient utensils, cutlery and crockery appropriate to the maximum occupancy of the property. Barbecues are charcoal BBQ’s and as such guests will need to provide their own charcoal and firelighters should they wish to use the BBQ. Extras such as washing machines, dishwashers, microwaves, TVs, VCRs, CDs, DVDs, where they are installed, are noted in each individual accommodation description. Please bring your own tapes, CDs and DVDs and a small supply of washing and/or dishwasher tablets, where appropriate, as these are not provided.

ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE

We have no set arrival or departure day at the The Quintassential, therefore making it easier for our guests to get the best flight option, dependent upon our availability and already confirmed bookings.  We do however have a minimum stay policy of three nights. The Quintassential will endeavour to have the accommodation fully cleaned and ready for your arrival by 15.00 hours local time on the day of your arrival and would ask you to vacate by no later than 10.00 hours local time on the day of your departure. Guests should not expect to be able to arrive earlier or leave later. It would be appreciated if you would strictly adhere to these rules, as cleaning the whole accommodation thoroughly and to your satisfaction is a lot of work for the maid(s). If, when you arrive, work is still continuing, please allow the maid(s) to finish. For guests wishing to access the booked accommodation earlier or ensuring they have the facility of using their booked accommodation after 10.00 hours local time on the day of departure, an early check-in fee or late check-out fee must be paid for at the time of booking confirmation.  Prices will be given upon request.  These timings allow us to ensure that the accommodations are maintained to a high standard. 

ACCOMMODATION OCCUPANCY

Each accommodation description states the tenancy start time which is 15.00 hours local time unless stated otherwise and all end at no later than 10.00 hours local time on your departure day. The maximum number of people is also stated on the property description. If your party is an all female or all male group please tell us before confirming your booking. ONLY THE NUMBER OF PERSONS ON THE BOOKING CONFIRMATION FORM MAY OCCUPY THE ACCOMMODATIONS AT THE QUINTASSENTIAL If, for any reason whatsoever, any additional person(s) are accommodated during the holiday, or if you turn up with more people that stated on your booking confirmation, you and they will be asked to leave the accommodation immediately and you will immediately forfeit your returnable damages deposit. Pets are not permitted at The Quintassential as the owners of the Quintassential have pets of their own.

The Orange Cottage accommodates four adults and an infant using a travel cot in the twin bedroom.  Minimum occupancy charge for 4 people will be charged for the Orange Cottage.

The Lemon Cottage accommodates a maximum of two adults and ideally an infant or a small child.  The bedroom has twin beds and should you require the child’s single chair bed or cot in the bedroom, this needs to be requested at the time of booking.  Minimum occupancy charge of 2 people will be charged for the Lemon Cottage. 

The Carob Cottage accommodates a maximum of two adults and ideally an infant or a small child. The bedroom has a double and should you require the child’s single chair bed or cot in the bedroom, this needs to be requested at the time of booking.  Minimum occupancy charge of 2 people will be charged for the Carob Cottage.

The Casa do Forno Cottage accommodates two adults.  No children are allowed in this accommodation.  Minimum occupancy charge 2 people will be charged for the Casa do Forno Cottage.  Please note; this accommodation is not suitable for people with walking difficulties due to the various levels of the accommodation and the rustic stairs.

For additional people in the Orange, Lemon or the Carob Cottages over the age of two there is an additional charge of £75.00 GBP per week or part week.

NON-RESIDENT QUINTASSENTIAL GUESTS

Due to The Quintassential’s holiday rental license restrictions, only residents at The Quintassential are allowed to use the facilities at The Quintassential. People that are not resident at The Quintassential will not be allowed to use any of the facilities or enter the grounds at any time.

WELCOME HAMPER

To save you the chore of shopping immediately following your arrival in the Algarve, The Quintassential will provide an initial welcome pack (for guests staying 7 nights or more) to get your holiday off to a start free of charge or this can be pre-purchased if you are staying less than seven nights at a cost of £15.00 GBP per accommodation.  Should this be required, this needs to be requested at the time of booking confirmation.  The welcome hamper includes, water 1.5L, milk 1.0L, fruit juice, butter, cheese, ham, rose wine, red wine, crisps, biscuits and fresh bread. Please note that an initial supply of tea, coffee, sugar, toilet paper, bin bags and washing up liquid will also be provided.   You will however need to purchase more during your stay.

RETURNABLE DAMAGES DEPOSITS

The Quintassential understands that accidents happen. All damages should be reported as soon as possible and payment will be required on major breakages, damaging, loss, tearing and soiling of linen and other items within the accommodations. The Quintassential do understand about normal wear and tear.  The Quintassentialreserve the right to replace or repair any breakage/loss at guests' expenses and to deduct the costs from the Returnable Damages Deposit accordingly. Breakage, loss or damage may postpone the Security Deposit's refund until after the repairs/replacement has been done.  If the Returnable Damages Deposit is insufficient to cover repair/replacement costs, guests agree to pay the additional costs before their departure or once full quotes have been received.  Payment must be made within seven days of receiving notification from The Quintassential and payment must be via bank transfer in the nominated UK bank account. 

The returnable damages deposit is refunded in full 14 days following your departure as most clients treat the accommodations with a great deal of care and respect. The maid(s) and owners will have checked the accommodation prior to your arrival to ensure everything is in good order. Should you notice anything amiss on your arrival, please report it immediately to the owner. It is imperative to ensure that you have adequate travel insurance as charges incurred for damage can usually be claimed back from your travel insurance provider. 

A Returnable Damages Deposit of £150.00 GBP is required for the one bedroom apartment cottages if two people are occupying the accommodation and £200.00 GBP if three people are occupying the one bedroom apartment cottages.  

For the two bedroom apartment cottage (Orange) a Returnable Damages Deposit of £300.00 GBP is required. 

The Returnable Damages Deposit includes £50.00 GBP security deposit for the remote control for the electric gates at The Quintassential.  The Quintassential is now a fully fenced and electric gated complex. 

The Returnable Damages Deposit is for any breakages and/or damage/loss caused to the accommodations during your stay and will be payable when paying your balance payment six weeks prior to arrival. If upon checking out nothing is reported damaged, lost or broken, the Returnable Damages Deposit will be returned to you via bank transfer into a UK bank account.  It is your responsibility as the guest to provide the Quintassential following your departure with your account details i.e. UK sort code, account number and account holders name in order for the funds to be returned.  For guests making their payments by PayPal, the returnable damages deposit will be returned only into a PayPal account.  For guests living outside of the UK, the returnable damages deposit can also be sent in the form of a UK cheque if so desired, but ideally into a PayPal account.

Guests must understand that The Quintassential accommodations are not a hotel; therefore they ensure to leave the accommodations in a satisfying state of cleanliness upon departure, in the condition in which they found it upon their day of arrival. If the accommodation is not left in such condition wereserve the right to make a charge to cover the cost of any extra cleaning that will be deducted from the returnable damages deposit.

DAMAGE

We accept that accidents do happen, but should you or a member of your travelling party cause damage/break/soil items within the accommodation, please report it immediately to the owners who will endeavour to replace it for you. All breakages and damage should be paid for before vacating the accommodation unless arranged otherwise with the owners of The Quintassential. Your travel insurance should cover you for accidental damage or breakages whilst on holiday but keep all receipts as they will be required for any claims on your return. If you are unable to obtain an official receipt, a letter from the owner should suffice. Unreported damage or breakages will result in a deduction from your returnable damages deposit so it is advisable to report anything, however minor, before you depart.

LINEN, TOWELS & ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT

All linen and towels (except beach unless otherwise stated) are included in the accommodation rental, sheets and towels are changed weekly.  Guests must bring their own beach towels or these can be hired from us for a small additional charge.  Irons and ironing boards are provided within the accommodations. Any towels or linen provided in the accommodations are not be taken to the beach or taken home!  Only our beach towels can be removed. Please remember to take your own CDs, videos, DVDs and travel adaptors. Unless otherwise stated in the accommodation description, heating and firewood are charged for separately and payable locally.

MAIDS, GARDNERS AND POOL MAINTENANCE

The frequency of maid service is stated in each accommodation description, once a week. The maid’s duties include general cleaning (but not washing up or personal laundry), sweeping the floors and cleaning the bathrooms. They will ensure clean bed linen is provided once per week and the towels once per week unless stated otherwise in the accommodation description. Please note that maids do not work on Sundays or Portuguese public holidays and that the frequency of service includes the changeover day. Maids do not dispose of household rubbish, which should be bagged up and taken to one of the many local public bins. There is a laundry service available at the Quintassential, full details provided within the accommodations and charges are payable locally prior to departure. Swimming pools need regular maintenance in order for them to remain in sparkling condition and the gardens need regular work. Pool maintenance staff and accommodation gardeners will be as unobtrusive as possible. Sometimes essential maintenance or repairs need to be carried out at the accommodations but any arrangements to complete work will be made with you in advance by The Quintassential. Should you notice anything that needs maintenance during your stay it is essential that you advise The Quintassential. They will do their best to ensure that anything that needs repair or replacement will be done with the minimum amount of disturbance to you and your travelling party.

SATELLITE, CABLE TV & INTERNET ACCESS

Please note that satellite UK free to view TV channels does NOT give access to the subscription channels (e.g. Sky which includes movies, sport and entertainment). Eurosport and News are usually available. The Quintassential provides ‘free to view’ UK channels which will give access to a limited number of English terrestrial channels. We therefore cannot guarantee, or be held responsible, for any specific channels that may or may not be provided. During high winds and low lying cloud there may be a loss in the satellite TV signal and The Quintassential cannot be held responsible for such occurrences.   The Quintassential provides free Wi-Fi internet access for guests staying at The Quintassential with hotspots available within the grounds.  An access code is provided within the accommodations for use of the Wi-Fi. The Quintassential cannot be held responsible if the service develops a fault or is unavailable for any reason.  Please note; not all the accommodations are within reach of the Wi-Fi signal.

CHILD FRIENDLY PROPERTIES

The Quintassential offers three child friendly accommodations, but we are aware that no two parent’s view of a child friendly accommodation will be the same.

Children of all ages are welcome at The Quintassential.  We do everything possible to ensure that families with children have a holiday that is both fun and relaxing. We know how important it is to keep kids happy and entertained on holiday, within a safe and secure environment. The Quintassential is totally fenced and accessed via electric gates, so a very safe place. There is a lot of space for children to play and to discover nature.  The child friend accommodations are all separated from the pool area; the pool area is enclosed and gated to give parents of toddlers that extra piece of mind. All the baby/toddler friendly accommodations now have the added benefit of fencing around their private terraces.

There is a children's play area available designed for little ones situated on a large lawned area set alongside a novice orange grove.  There is a slide, swings, seesaw, toddler slide, toddler trampoline etc, this area adds an exciting dimension for all the visiting children and keeps them occupied for hours.  There is also a seating area for adults to relax, unwind and top up their tans.  There is also a professional size table tennis table and 12ft trampoline for guest use.

We do not charge for children under the age of 2 and can provide a range of equipment for babies and toddlers free of charge, meaning you can travel lighter!  A full detailed list of available equipment will be provided at the time of enquiry and booking for families with small children, guests will need to pre-book their required items and this is allocated on a first come first reserve basis.  No baby/child equipment (except for the baby stroller & portable table chair for restaurant use) is to taken outside of The Quintassential at any time!  Guests wishing to use the baby intercoms whilst staying at the Quintassential will need to provide their own batteries for the receiver unit.  All baby toys/equipment requiring batteries will need to be provided by the guests.

The Quintassential is also pleased to announce the provisional of a baby welcome pack and a baby-sitting/child minding service.  Both services are available for an additional charge. Full details of available items are available on our website and within the accommodations.

COTS, HIGH-CHAIRS, BEDS & BABY EQUIPMENT

The Quintassential provides a travel cot with a comfy mattress, a changing mat and a food blender as standard in each of the child friendly accommodations.  The Quintassential can also provide other items for families travelling with infants such as a baby bottle sterilisers, play pen, infant toys, and high chairs. These items are not in accommodations as a matter of course and need to be pre-booked prior to your arrival and they are reserved on a first come first reserved basis. Full details of available items will be provided at the time booking confirmation. The cots provided at The Quintassential will be foldable travel types.  Cot linen is not supplied unless requested. Extra beds provided at The Quintassential are children’s single chair beds are supplied at additional cost, subject to The Quintassential’s agreement and what they have available.  No baby/child equipment (except for the baby stroller & portable table chair for restaurant use) is to taken outside of The Quintassential at any time!

EXTRAS

Pool heating, central heating (including electricity for electric heaters and fuel for open fires or log burning stoves) are NOT included in the accommodation price unless otherwise stated and must be booked at the time of booking confirmation and paid for in advance. It should be noted that pools can take anywhere between a few days and a week to heat up. If the accommodation is vacant, or the clients occupying the accommodation immediately prior to your arrival did not require the pool to be heated, then in order to ensure that the pool is warm enough for your arrival, it will be necessary to preheat the pool in advance. Therefore, a pre-heating charge will be made in addition to the cost of maintaining the heat for the duration of your holiday. In general pool heating will heat water between 3 and 8 degrees centigrade above the average air temperature and the weather also has a dramatic effect on the pool temperature. Heavy rainfall or exceptionally cold nights can seriously reduce the effect of the heating. Pool heating supplements are non-refundable, irrespective of what temperature the pool reaches, as the majority of the cost is incurred in the first few days. Anycancellations will not be possible after the heating is initially switched on. It is not recommended to heat the pool during the hot summer months when heated pools can sometimes turn green with a reaction to the chemicals. Please note that unheated pools will feel cool in early and late season.  In the event of heavy rainfall, exceptionally cold nights and electrical thunderstorms, the pool heating will be switched off until weather conditions improve.

THE QUINTASSENTIAL GROUNDS

The Quintassential is an area of peace and tranquillity and request that you respect other guests wishing to relax in peace and quiet.   There are no ball games allowed at The Quintassentialexcept for inflatables at the pool.

WINTER GUESTS – 1^ST NOVEMBER UNTIL 31^ST MARCH

From 1^st November through until 31^st March, heating is provided in all the accommodations at The Quintassentialand is already included in the price quoted.  For the Casa do Forno Cottage we provide one oil filled radiator for the bedroom, one eco wall heater in the kitchen diner and there is also a wood burning stove in the accommodation.  For the two bedroom cottage (Orange), three eco wall heaters are provided and there is also a wood burning stove in the accommodation. Should you require additional heaters in the form of oil-filled radiators, there is an additional charge of 50 Euros per week or part week.  This is payable at The Quintassentialprior to your departure in cash (euros). Logs for the wood burning stoves can be purchased from The Quintassential at a cost of 10 Euros per basket. Should a basket of logs be required, they must be requested before 16.00 hours local time. The logs are also paid prior to departure in cash (euros). Heating in the Casa do Forno and Orange Cottage during the winter months can be left on 24/7.  The Lemon and Carob Cottages have the benefit of gas central heating.  The gas central heating for the Lemon and Carob Cottages comes on for allocated times in the morning, 08.00 to 10.00 hours and then again from late afternoon 18.00c until c22.00 hours. The wood burning stoves in both these accommodations are for decoration purposes only. 

For the winter guests at The Quintassential provides in all the accommodations winter tog duvets and a hot water bottle for guest use.  For guests staying outside of winter season dates who require heating, this is also available at 50 Euros per radiator and payable at The Quintassentialprior to departure in cash (Euros).  For central heating in the Lemon and Carob Cottages, this is charged at 150.00 Euros per week or part week for the above mentioned allocated times.

BEACHES, SWIMMING POOLS & SAFETY

Where The Quintassential advertises the distance to the nearest beach, please bear in mind that access may be difficult for those with limited mobility. No swimming pool is safe for unsupervised children. Pool dimensions, where provided, are only approximate. Swimming pools are generally 1m – 2m deep so are without a very shallow end so we would strongly recommend that upon arrival at your accommodation, you check the position of the shallow and deep ends. Please refrain from diving into the pool at any time. Towels for use by the pool are provided and must not be taken to the beach at any time. 

From the 1^st October until 30^th November and then again from 1^st March until 30^th April, the swimming pool is opened at 10.00 hours local time and closes at 16.00 hours local time.  The pool will then be covered until the following day.  At no time at all are guests allowed to use the roller station to cover or uncover the pool.  The hot tub spa jacuzzi is available for use 24/7 for residents at the Quintassential over the age of 7. The Quintassential pool is also heated at no additional charge from 1^st October until 30^th November and then again from 1^st March until 30^th April and there is also our Jacuzzi hot tub spa that is heated to 36C.

WATER, ELECTRICITY AND SOLAR POWER

With little or no rain, shortages do occur which may result in a low water pressure. Please bear with it, the locals are suffering in the same way. The water is safe to drink, but may taste different and we therefore recommend you stick to bottled water for drinking. The Quintassential sources its water from a licensed borehole. Portuguese plumbing is not as efficient as northern Europeans are used to and cannot cope with the disposal of nappies, toilet paper etc. If a blockage occurs, firstly a drain specialist will need to be called out at a cost of 250.00 Euros and the floor of your accommodation may need to be dug up which will undoubtedly cause disturbance to your holiday. Please respect the wishes of The Quintassential at all times with regards to the disposal of nappies, toilet paper etc. Electricity cuts, especially after storms, are not uncommon. Our properties rely on solar power to heat water during the summer months, if there is insufficient sun light; there is a back-up system to heat the water.

TOYS, GAMES & SPORTS

The Quintassential advertises table tennis and a trampoline and are there to provide enjoyment for the guests staying at The Quintassential. Please don’t expect them to be of championship standard! Bats and balls for the table tennis are provided within the accommodations. There are also a selection of board games, puzzles etc within all the accommodations.

SECURITY

Be as security conscious whilst on holiday as you would be at home. Do not leave valuables on view in cars, and always be sure to secure the accommodation doors, shutters and windows when going out, or if you are by the pool if your accommodation has one. We recommend you do not take items of great or sentimental value on holiday with you.  All the accommodations at The Quintassential have a security safe.

WEATHER

Weather in the Algarve is generally good throughout the summer, with a low average rainfall. Buildings are designed and furnished to be comfortable in hot temperatures, and may not be as well suited to wet or cold periods as houses in northern Europe. Humidity can be a problem in such countries where temperatures are usually high. In very wet periods, villas may give the appearance of being damp. However, as soon as the weather reverts to normal, and houses can be aired properly, any sign of dampness will quickly disappear.  During the cooler winter months, all the accommodation at The Quintassential will have dehumidifiers or alternative gadgets to help with their accommodations feeling of damp.  It is advisable to hear the advice of the owners; our advice will make your stay during the cooler winter months far more comfortable. 

BUILDING WORKS & DISTURBANCE

As with any country, building work in Portugal is sporadic and can start at any time. Even accommodations in developments that are well established, can be affected if a neighbour suddenly decides to renovate or improve. Likewise local councils may start road works with little or no notice. The Quintassential do not control such work and advance notice is very rarely received as to when work may or not begin.

MOSQUITOES & OTHER PESTS

As with all hot countries, insects can be a problem. Plug-in mosquito repellents rarely work up in the hills and The Quintassential therefore request the use of aerosol mosquito spray and a lotion to protect exposed skin when eating out. Uncovered food will attract hoards of ants so store all food in the fridge or in airtight containers. Ant powders will solve the problem if it occurs, but prevention is the best cure. Likewise accessible food is a great temptation for mice and other rodents so please remember to store provisions carefully.   The Quintassential does not provide mosquito spray.  The Orange & Casa do Forno Cottage have fly screens on all the windows and in Lemon, Carob and Casa do Forno Cottage there are over bed hanging mosquito nets.  The Lemon & Carob Cottages also have fly screens on the lounge window and bathroom window.

CATS, DOGS & OTHER ANIMALS

At the Quintassential there are three dogs, a cat, chickens and pigs.  Should any of the dogs or cats at The Quintassential beg for food during your holiday, however sweet they look, please do not feed them. They are just opportunists looking for an extra meal!  The next guests staying in your accommodation may not be as tolerant. The cats and dogs at The Quintassential are kept indoors of a night time. Many local families keep dogs, which live outdoors and may sometimes be heard barking. Stray cats and dogs can occasionally be a problem in some areas.  Should you wish to feed the pigs with any leftover food, they are very grateful.

SMOKING

Portugal now has smoking restrictions although they are not identical to the UK or other countries with smoking restrictions. Some restaurants allow smoking while others do not. All the accommodations at The Quintassential are non-smoking accommodations, for smoking guests, you are allowed to smoke within the grounds but please respect others that do not smoke and clean up after yourselves. Smoking inside any of the accommodations will be considered a breach of the booking conditions and will result in the occupants of the accommodation being asked to vacate the accommodation.  In such case the customer will forfeit the rental period, the security deposit and total paid for the accommodation rental.

HOW TO BOOK

Please browse our website decide which accommodation you prefer to suit your travelling party.

Please fill in the accommodation enquiry form or call The Quintassential so we can give you more information about any of the accommodations you have selected double check availability, confirm prices and make a provisional booking. Please note, you are currently unable to make an online booking and there are no availability charts shown on The Quintassential website.  It is therefore imperative that you check with us first.

If you decide to proceed with a booking, please call or email The Quintassential who will make a provisional booking for you and will also advise you of the deposit amount required in order to confirm your booking. Your deposit payment can be made by bank transfer into a UK bank account or by debit or credit card (please note that for debit and credit card payments attract a 5% transaction fee). The Quintassential will send you a confirmation invoice via email - please check this carefully and let us know immediately of any errors or omissions.

Don't forget that you can call or email The Quintassential at any time to:

·         Add additional services or facilities to your booking such as car hire, transfers

·         Make changes to your booking such as adding additional party members or advising us of a change to your details

·         Cancel your booking – please be aware that cancellation charges will apply as per our terms and conditions