Located right beside the marina / main restaurant area, Casa Clare offers four people comfortable, convenient home-from-home accommodation with its two bedrooms, traditional barbeque, large patio and roof terrace offering stunning views over the marina as far as Lagos.
With a Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers and mild winters, summer temperatures are high, but moderated by the sea breeze. It is said that the Algarve has one of the best all year climates in Europe.
Alvor, in the Western Algarve is testament to that! It is perfectly located, close to the sea and countryside it is the optimal destination for those seeking a versatile holiday. Alvor is a 50 minute drive from Faro airport.
Village life is pleasant, you can wander to the market hall or bakery in the morning and buy your fresh fruit, fish and bread and spend your afternoons relaxing on the beach. For the more energetic there’s golf, horseback riding, water sports and a wide selection of excursions (land and sea, all available within 100 metres of Casa Clare).
Steps immediately outside Casa Clare on Rua dos Pescadores lead down to the main restaurant area / marina. Alvor boasts over 100 restaurants, most of which are an easy stroll from the house.
Our fully equipped kitchen will make home cooking a pleasure and should the weather warrant it, the dining suite in the living room provides for comfortable eating indoors
The living room boasts two large Italian sofas with matching foot stools. The entertainment unit housing a 50” smart TV with Netflix, books and games and a stand-alone wood burning stove creates a cosy homely feel on the rare cool day or chilly night. Of course there is air-conditioning! There is hi speed wifi throughout the house and terraced areas.
But who wants to be indoors? Eating out at home is such a joy…….the aromatic scent of fresh herbs, coupled with the sizzling sound of fresh fish or meat on the charcoal is mouth-watering at any time of day!
Breakfast outside on the patio is extra special with cheerful birdsong and the faint sounds of the fishermen returning with their late night or early morning catch!
There’s no need for a clock here, the local church bells ring in the hours and lively antics and calls of the seagulls announce mealtimes!
Sundowners on the rooftop to the sound of the wind blowing through the rigging and halyards of sail boats in the marina, the fading light “through dark clouds a red rose peeping and an amber gleam*” eases the day into the night. (*Afanasy Afanasyevich Fet)
The master bedroom (king size bed) to the rear of the property is en-suite (shower & toilet); it has air-conditioning and an electric fan. There is ample storage in the wardrobe, two bedside lockers and vanity unit.
The second bedroom to the front of the house has twin beds, a large wardrobe, bedside lockers, vanity unit and under window storage
There is an electric fan and a Windows PC for guest use and a separate guest shower and toilet. All beds are made up with luxurious Egyptian cotton linen and Egyptian cotton guest towels are also provided.
Both shower rooms have extractor systems and heated towel rails. Both bedrooms have hair dryers and hot & cold fans.
There is a large safety deposit box (can hold 2 laptops) in the living room
Suitability: Casa Clare is best suited for responsible adults due to the tiled and graded floors, multiple steps and a high terrace. It may not be suitable for the very elderly or infirm. It is not wheelchair friendly. Guests and potential guests should note that our garden sun loungers and garden chairs are rated for a maximum user weight of 125 kg which is 19.6 stone or 275 pounds. Our zero gravity fold up chairs are rated for a maximum user weight of 110 kg which is 17.3 stone or 242 pounds.
Smoking is not permitted in the house and pets are not allowed.
Casa Clare is on a pedestrian only street. There is free on-street parking in Alvor (50 to 100 metres from the property).
Please note the primary renter minimum age is 30 with no exceptions.
Maximum stay is 30 days
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
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Steps roof terrace so care needed with small kids.
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Events
No events allowed
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Pets
No pets allowed
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Smoking outdoors only in garden area
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and return the keys
Please leave the front door keys on the living room table and close the front door as you leave
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Sun loungers /chairs are for a max user weight of 125 kg (19.6st /275pnds). Zero gravity fold up chairs are rated for a max of110 kg (17.3st/242pnds)
Maximum stay is 30 days, any bookings for more than 30 days will be rejected
As in many traditional Portuguese homes in the historic town centre, we ask guests to avoid running multiple high‑powered appliances at once.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number 11534/AL
Property # 1810541ha
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses some solar energy
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the neighborhood
Portimão
Located in Portimão, this vacation home is on the waterfront. While the natural beauty of Alvor Beach and Rocha Beach can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can check out Marina de Lagos.
Slide and Splash Water Park and Lagos Living Science Center are also worth visiting. Snorkeling and windsurfing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and cycling nearby.
Is Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite….. pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite….. ?
As of May 25, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite….. on Jun 6, 2026 start from $257, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking?
There is free parking nearby.
What time is check-in at Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite….. ?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite….. ?
Check-out is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Far From The Madding Crowd…But Not Quite….. located?
Situated on the waterfront, this vacation home is within a 10-minute walk of Alvor Boardwalk and Alvor Beach. Hospital Alvor and Tres Irmaos Beach are also within 1 mi (2 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Just around the corner from all the restaurants, bars and shops. So many to choose from. We had breakfast and lunch at Casa Clara, but ate out every evening. We had no issues with noise to sleep, as the main bedroom is located at the back of the house and is quiet. Bedding and bed are top quality. The second bedroom with the 2 single beds is at the front of the house and does hear noise at night from the street. Beautiful outdoor areas to read and hang out. We walked on the well maintained wooden boardwalks every day. Host was responsive to inquiries within minutes. Wonderful extensive booklet for guests to review regarding the property and area. Overall we highly recommended
Cindy B.
Stayed 15 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on May 10, 2026
Hi Cindy, thank you for your review, we're glad you had an enjoyable stay in Casa Clare and got to experience some of the lovely restaurants in the area.
Very comfortable property with all the home from home amenities, plenty of outside space to relax in with bbq and dining area.Right next to all the bars and restaurants yet based on a very quiet street.Overall very happy , however I would suggest the photos of property on Vrbo website be updated.
Steve M.
Stayed 10 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 4, 2025
Hi Steve, thank you for your review, we are glad that you enjoyed your time in Casa Clare.
Thank you for your suggestions in relation to the photographs. We have been making improvements to the property recently (new kitchen, new guest bedroom layout, shrubbery changes in garden) and plan to have new pictures taken in the coming weeks, at which point we will upload to Vrbo.
Regards, Gervase & Zoe
This cottage is in the centre of the village within easy walking distance of beach, shops and restaurants. It is very well equipped with everything you need ( and more) . We would stay there again if available
Barbara W.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on May 19, 2023
Thank you Barbara for your lovely review. We hope you get to visit Casa Clare again.
Regards,
Gervase & Zoe
Our second visit to Casa Clare, which is so well located for all the lovely restaurants in Alvor - a few minutes walk. The house is clean, comfortable, and with all facilities you could need. We also enjoyed the shaded garden and roof terrace. We hope to return!
Nicola D.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 11, 2024
Thank you Nicola for your lovely review. There are some very nice new restaurants in Alvor since you last stayed (and the old reliables of course). We hope you get to visit Casa Clare again.
Regards
Gervase & Zoe
We had a wonderful time with family at Casa Clare. Nice touches of leaving milk and water for us and we could use beach towels and cool boxes for the beach. Proximity to the main restaurant area is just round the corner, yet quiet at night. Outdoor area was superb too. Would stay again.
Verified traveler
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 26, 2023
Thanks for your review Joanne, we are glad you had a good time in Alvor and hope you get to stay in Casa Clare again
Regards
Gervase & Zoe
We had a great time staying here with our young family. The location was perfect for going to the beach, a stroll along the board walks or popping into town to the local play area. The property was very well equipped with everything we could need. Check process was simple. Overall a great week in the February sunshine.
Diana H.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2020
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 2, 2020
Thank you Diana, we are glad you got to enjoy the winter sunshine, Alvor is forecast 20c highs this coming week with 8 to 10 hours of sunshine making it the sunniest place in Europe.
Its such a contrast to the rain and sleet at home
Regards, Gervase & Zoe
Everything was exactly as promised. A great location and both the rooftop and garden patios were great outdoor spaces. Kitchen is well equipped although we did have most meals at one of the many great restaurants.
Cynthia B.
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 17, 2024
Thank you for the review Cynthia, we are glad you enjoyed your stay at Casa Clare and hope you get to visit again
Regards
Gervase & Zoe
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Alan Benton
May 23, 2018
CASA CLARE ALVOR
Property was excellent - comfortable and well equipped and well positioned for restaurants etc which were just one street back. Alvor itself it a pretty resort with marina, sandy beaches and a boardwalk going in various directions close to the beach which is excellent for walkers. Alvor is in striking distance of lots of interesting places to visit. Would recommend for a super holiday.
Alan Benton
Stayed 7 nights in May 2018
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 2, 2020
Thank you Alan and Barbara for your lovely review. We hope you get to visit Casa Clare again.
Regards
Gervase & Zoe
Verified
6/10 Okay
Monita L.
Apr 24, 2024
Disliked: Communication, location
Alvor get-away
Although property is a bit rundown, it was clean and appliances were functional. The apartment and location did not meet our expectations, but that is on us.
Monita L.
Stayed 13 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Jun 17, 2024
Thank you for your review Monita, feedback is very important to us. We have sent you a direct message and would very much appreciate any additional information you can give to help us make improvements to Casa Clare.
Regards
Gervase & Zoe
We had a great 10 days in this comfortable and well-equipped little house in the heart of old Alvor. The beds are very comfortable and the house has everything you’d need for a holiday. The house is literally a couple of minutes’ walk from Alvor’s best restaurants and 15 minutes walk from the beautiful beach.
Lorna, the local representative couldn’t have been more helpful- and the same was true of the owners.
We definitely plan to return one day.
Nicola D.
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Aug 16, 2022
Thanks Nicola, we hope you get to visit again. It was a pleasure having you as guests. in Casa Clare
Regards
Gervase & Zoe
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Martina W.
Oct 30, 2017
A true gem . loved this house
Charm, convenience and comfort! Loved this house - our second time to come back and once again didn’t disappoint. The owners clearly care about their guests as the attention to detail is second to none . Great not to have to hire a car as everything is within walking distance - restaurants and bars and the beautiful beach. Will definitely come back to Casa Clare! Thanks again!
Martina W.
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 2, 2020
Thank you for the lovely review Martina, we are delighted you got to visit Casa Clare again and hope you are enjoying the rest of your world trip.
Regards
Gervase & Zoe
We loved Casa Clare. The house is just perfect, right in the centre of beautiful Alvor on a lovely quiet and traditional street but only steps away from the harbour and Main Street with all the bars and restaurants.
What really makes the space really special is the outdoor space. We enjoyed having our breakfast and pre-dinner drinks on the roof terrace, and we also made use of the BBQ and dining area outside.
We will definitely be back to Alvor and I just hope this fab little place is available when we do!
Thank you for a lovely stay
Jennifer I.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 15, 2023
Thank you Jennifer for your lovely review of Casa Clare. We hope you get to visit again.
Regards
Gervase & Zoe
Alvor is quite central for exploring the Algarve, while being quiet and laidback. The property is as described. It's even more central in Alvor than we initially realized - many, many restaurants, cafes, shops, and bars are within a block or two. The house is comfortable. We appreciated use of the washer & dryer. Communication with the owners was clear and prompt. Would recommend for a group of 2-4.
Verified traveler
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on May 25, 2022
Thank you Katie,
We are glad you enjoyed your stay in Casa Clare and hope you get to visit again
Gervase & Zoe
Comfortable, beautifully located house in small town
This comfortable house with all necessary amenities,including wifi and a clothes dryer as well as attractive outdoor space, was perfect for a month's stay for my husband and myself. It was easy to get around town on foot and pleasant to be among Portuguese neighbors who were always friendly. We rented a car which we parked at the marina. In February it was no problem to find a space nearby. The host was always responsive to email. We thoroughly enjoyed our time at Casa Clare.
Peshe K.
Stayed 29 nights in Feb 2024
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 5, 2024
Thank you Peche for your lovely review. We are glad to got to meet our neighbours. They are indeed very friendly. We hope you get an opportunity to visit again and enjoy the Algarvian winter sun.
Regards
Gervase & Zoe
What a good week we had in Casa Clare! Everything, from the comfort of the beds, the well stocked kitchen, the gift of the glorious Port, the bottle of wine, the perfect outside area, and a clothes washer! all was perfect. We thoroughly enjoyed meeting our neighbour Rosa, loved exploring the little winding cobblestone streets, walking the boardwalk, and trying different restaurants. Thank you to our “greeters” and to Zoe and Gervase (sp.). We would love to return one day.
Merna P.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2020
Response from VrboOwner on May 22, 2022
Thank you for your lovely review, we're 'a little late ' responding! We're glad you had a good holiday in Casa Clare and hope you get to return. Regards, Gervase and Zoe
The house came as advertised. It had absolutely everything you could need with the kitchen fully stocked, living room with TV, books, umbrellas, beach towels, washing products, literally everything. Apartment is 2 steps away from the main restaurant street with about 2 dozen restaurant choices, supermarket, etc. The host asked to check in before 6pm to avoid extra charge, but that’s only thing that might be an issue for some. Overall highly recommended.
Maxim A.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 31, 2023
Thank you Maxim for your lovely review, we hope you get to visit Casa Clare again.
The standard check in time is now between 3pm and 9pm, late check ins are available by arrangment and where possible we always try to facilitate early check ins / late check outs
Regards
Gervase & Zoe
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Ejner K.
Mar 9, 2019
A lovely renovated fisherman’s cottage in the perfect location for all the facilities in Alvor.
The property was very well equipped and as we were in the second month of a winter break the washing machine was well used! The earl part of our month was especially sunny and the roof terrace gave an opportunity for afternoon sunbathing out of any wind. Having the restaurants so close meant very little use made of the excellent kitchen facilities apart from breakfasts.
Congratulations to the owners for every help given by way of information and advice - we really enjoyed our stay.
Thank you
Ejner Knudsen
Ejner K.
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 2, 2020
Dear Ejner,
thank you for your lovely review, we are delighted you got to enjoy Casa Clare for the past few weeks and hope you get to visit again
Regards,
Gervase & Zoe.
We spent 6 nights at Casa Clare and had a wonderful time!
As advertised it is in the middle of the action but far enough away not to be bothered by the noise and energy of the evening activities.
The house was so comfortable and equipped with everything you could need or imagine. It felt like a home away from home.
We had a few perfect beach days and many delicious meals; joined a kayak tour from Portimao to tour the caves!
We enjoyed cooking “ at home” a few nights and dined on the back patio. We toasted the sunset from the upper deck.
Alvor is a lovely town, still quaint and not over run by tourism .
Would highly recommend staying here
P.S- the bed in main bedroom was extremely comfortable with high quality bedding.
Dawn M.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Oct 6, 2023
Thank you Dawn for your lovely review. We hope you get to visit Casa Clare again.
Regards,
Gervase & Zoe
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Heather D.
Apr 25, 2019
Perfect location. Everything you need.
Casa Clare is the best stocked Airbnb we have ever been in. I almost felt like cooking just to use the spices and such in the kitchen cupboard. Packing a picnic was a breeze thanks to plastic containers, an insulated backpack, plastic wrap, and freezer packs. Location also can’t be beat — quiet but close to everything. We loved the town of Alvor too— not too small or too big. Only negative is that the main room could use better lighting and the matresses in the large bedroom are a little soft. But the back patio and rooftop terrace alone more than make up for these minor dings. Host also very responsive. Highly recommend.
Heather D.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 2, 2020
Thank you for your lovely review, we are delighted that you enjoyed your stay in Casa Clare and we hope you get to visit again. We have taken your suggestions on board and will review on our next visit in a few weeks.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Peter L.
Jul 24, 2018
Great Place for a Holiday!
Great location- half a mile to beach, 100 metres to restaurants,supermarket, daily fruit and fish market.
House fully equipped with television, 2 good shower rooms, excellent kitchen with oven, hob and fridge freezer.
Kitchen well stocked with pots, pans and utensils. And cupboards had stock of salt pepper, herbs and spices which all helped in cooking on the outside BBQ.
Good outside space to eat or lie or sit in the sun.
No car necessary as everything you need is at hand.
Despite its proximity to the restaurants it was still peaceful at night even when the restaurants were busy.
Air conditioning as well though house was cool enough without it.
Peter L.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2018
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 2, 2020
Thanks for the lovely review Peter, we hope you get to visit again
Regards
Gervase & Zoe
My husband and I stayed for a month at Casa Clare. Can’t say enough about the location being perfect. Loved being on a little street where the neighbors hang out the window to see what’s going on or sometimes to hang their laundry. Roslyn down the street a bit always had a bom dia and a smile for us and Maria across the way always said hi!
Yet 2 mins walk and you are at the marina or a plethora of restaurants
As for the house many days spent on the rooftop terrace with some wine, bread, butter and olives and enjoying the view. Just amazing!
Inside fully equipped kitchen could want for nothing more
Washer and dryer included and also a clothesline outside.
If you want to experience Portugal in style this is the place to stay in the Algarve
Joyce A.
Stayed 29 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Mar 12, 2022
Thank you Joyce for your lovely review, we are glad you had an enjoyable stay and hope you get to visit Casa Clare again. Regards, Gervase & Zoe
Verified
10/10 Excellent
maxine e.
Aug 1, 2018
Highly recommended
Casa Clare is perfect. It is located in the best spot in Alvor, being on a pedestrianised street one road away from the Estuary and just back from the main road which has restaurants and bars to suit all tastes.
The property is extremely comfortable and exceptionally well equipped. We wanted for nothing.
The beds were supremely comfy and we slept very well.
The air con is efficient and kept us lovely and cool.
The gardens were delightful and the views from the terrace stunning!
There was nothing at all to fault. I would not hesitate to return and most highly recommend. I should add that the property represents excellent value for money and the owners were a delight to work with.
maxine e.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018
Response from VrboOwner on Apr 2, 2020
Thanks Maxine for your lovely review, we are delighted that you enjoyed your visit to our home in Alvor. Its great to hear back that guests love it as much as we do! We hope you get the opportunity to visit again,
Regards,
Gervase & Zoe
About the host
Hosted by Zoe Giltrap MacCourt
Researching the retirement market in the Algarve
Why they chose this property
Casa Clare is situated in what we believe is the best location in Alvor. Its close to superb restaurants and the marina, close (but not too close) to the pubs and night-life. The garden and roof terrace are a delight, a private haven so conveniently located
What makes this property unique
Casa Clare is on a pedestrian only street and away from the usual tourist accommodation but (a very short) walking distance from all the essential facilities including a superb range of restaurants. The neighbours are for the most part Portuguese, and are very welcoming.