A recent £3,000 family holiday at the Club Med Da Balaia resort in Portugal was described as a "ghastly reality" by one guest, who cited unpalatable food, unclean accommodations, and overcrowded facilities as significant drawbacks.

The reviewer, who opted for the "premium" all-inclusive break in Portugal during the Easter holidays, had anticipated a luxurious escape from daily life. However, upon arrival, the experience reportedly deviated from the company's advertised image of a premium service and comfort.

Accommodation Issues

Upon checking into their two-bedroom suite, the guest reported finding a rock-hard bed, thin sheets and towels, and numerous stains on the carpet and inside wardrobes. Holes were also noted in the walls, and coffee rings were present on tables. The room's bathrooms were described as dated, with unbranded toiletries instead of complimentary items. The lift to the suite was broken for the duration of the stay, leading to long queues for the one remaining operational lift or the necessity of using a stairwell. Luggage was not assisted on departure, requiring the family to carry their own suitcases down seven flights of stairs for an early flight.

Dining Disappointments

Breakfast offerings were characterized as largely unhealthy, with pancakes, muffins, and waffles, rather than the expected fresh fruit and varied options. The reviewer noted a lack of attentive waiting staff and poor quality coffee. Lunch and dinner were served at the same buffet, as the a la carte restaurant was fully booked on weekends and closed on weekdays. Even the house wine was described as acidic.

Unfulfilled Amenities and Activities

The resort's location, perched on a cliff with sea views, was praised, but the availability of amenities was a point of contention. The reviewer stated there were no sun loungers, towels, or parasols provided at the resort, meaning no shade was available. Furthermore, many advertised activities, such as yoga classes and tennis lessons, were reportedly not available on Saturdays and Sundays, contrary to expectations. Even the children's club was closed at the weekend, and when it did open, the staff spoke predominantly French, limiting engagement for the English-speaking children.

Overcrowding and Facility Maintenance

During the weekend, the resort became significantly crowded, with a mix of families and, the reviewer suspected, locals on day passes. This led to an overcrowded pool area. Attempts to find alternative entertainment, such as crazy golf, were met with a rundown course where one of the nine holes was closed. Several security gates within the hotel grounds were also reported as broken.

Club Med Response

A spokesperson for Club Med acknowledged the guest's feedback, stating that the described experiences, particularly regarding accommodation and facilities, do not reflect the company's standards. They noted that since the concerns were not raised during the stay, the team did not have an opportunity to address them at the time. The company expressed a willingness to contact the family directly to review their experience further.