Just got back from my first visit to CVO (but have been a regular visitor to the Algarve for 16 years). Stayed at Clube Atlantico, had a great time, and was only slightly inconvenienced by smoke and ash on our last day - very glad to hear that the fires are under control.

Anyway, here's a little tip that may be handy for new arrivals. I'd arrived at our lovely (but empty) villa, and set of to the Intermarche supermarket to stock up on basic essentials (Super Bock, wine, Brandy, etc). However, one needs a 1 Euro coin to get a trolly, and as usual all my holiday cash was in large denomination notes. Luckily I found that a British 10p coin works perfectly. Worth remembering if you haven't got a 1 Euro coin to take with you on the first day.

WRONG!!!! The trollies take 50 cent pieces not 1 euro!

No need to shout guest!!

Mads

Sorry!!!!
I based my comment on the fact that the writing on the trolly seemed to suggest that a 1 Euro coin was required. The point I was trying to make was that most new arrivals, before they have had a chance to spend any money, tend to have only notes in local currency (courtesy of Thomas Cooke or whomever), so whether it's a 1 Euro or 50 cents, the fact is the same. If you have no local currency coins, you can't get a trolly - unless you have a British 10p coin that works just as well.

In any event, I had a fantastic holiday at CVO, and will certainly be back. Loved the ice creams from the "web cam" Ice Cream shop, and would recommend "O Cantinho" for really good food at very reasonable prices with very friendly service.

Also many thanks to everyone who posts constructive comments on this site. Your recommendations and advice are very welcome.

Some trolleys take 50 cents... some trolleys take 1 euro. Well that is my experience anyway.
I for one think it was a helpful tip and thank you

I second Maddi on this and guest above this one Im posting --thanks for the tip Dave25 --very useful --as Im usually one of those without the right change!
Only 20 days to go for me to see my "2nd" home again!
Ellie

i thought they used 100 escudo coins

You can also use a 20 cents coin in trollies here that ask for £1 coin.