Gato Preto de Silves - Adults Only

For the second year in a row, we went to Gato Preto de Silves for 10 days because we were very satisfied there on all counts. But what a difference from last year! Had already booked in early January 23, where communication had been via email. We were then granted a 15% discount for returning guests. On arrival, we were surprised to find that from this year onwards, breakfast was no longer offered, except on payment of 15€ per person, but this is only possible during high season (this year from 17/06, but we were already there on 11/06). The reason for this was lack of staff. We had not been informed of this in January. When we expressed our disappointment about this, I was replied that I should have consulted the website, as it clearly states this. By way of compensation, we were offered an (incomplete) basket. After comparing the current price on the website and the January price, it turned out that we paid the same price as someone coming for the 1st time. So no more talk of discount for returning guests. After discussing this with the hostess, we were informed that 15% of the total sum would be refunded. There was a refund of 90€, which is not equivalent to 15% for a total sum of 1,300€. Moreover, not all services were performed as mentioned by the hostess. Daily cleaning was not performed (only every 3 days). Change of towels had to be requested the 1st time after 4 days, afterwards this was no problem though. Cleanliness was far from perfect. Before our first breakfast, we still had to wash a large part of the dishes, as plates, pans and cutlery still contained food leftovers from previous customers. The hostess can only be reached via WhatsApp and/or e-mail, but my messages about the price were not answered. The host was not present. Last year, the contact was with him and everything passed very prompt. Although she is staying in the property herself, she has no time the times we saw her and wanted to speak to her. Great was also our surprise that cycling excursions for external guests were organised on a regular basis where the day started with breakfast, while this was thus not possible for internal guests (lack of staff?). Clearly, this accommodation no longer offers the service of the past. Therefore, if you do not wish to be disappointed, I do not recommend staying there anymore.

We have recently returned from a week's holiday staying at this delightful B&B. There was nothing we could fault. The cabins are so well equipped and spotlessly clean, breakfasts generous with plenty of choice, the swimming pool with its surroundings parasols perfect in the hot weather, and Mateus and Gloria are lovely hosts. We would wholeheartedly recommend a stay at Gato Preto, it was our first foreign holiday since the pandemic and we couldn't have chosen anywhere better to stay.