I think it is fair to say that this was the best apartment we have rented so far. As soon as we walked through the door we were impressed, it smelt fresh, was very clean and well maintained and all the furnishings and bedding etc were very good quality, it didn't feel like a holiday let, nor did it feel like somebody else's home, we were so comfortable because it felt like our own home. We were planning to walk from the train station (which is less than 10mins walk) but as we arrived at Tavira and took out the map which Clive provided we were greeted by Jacky, who very kindly insisted she drive us to the apartment. Shortly after our arrival, whilst checking out the huge patio, we met the next door neighbour who invited us to a communal BBQ that was being held that evening in the gardens in the centre of the apartment block. Even though we were on the ground floor and the patio wall is low, we had total privacy from anybody passing by.
Tavira is a gorgeous traditional town, not too big, and was easily reached on foot, there are several routes to take so you won't get bored. Bus station and train station no more than 10 mins stroll. Lidl supermarket next to train station.
We took the train to Vila Real San Antonio (30mins and inexpensive) then the ferry across Spanish border to Ayamonte for the day, a lovely town and VRSA had a huge market which we visited on our return journey. The Portuguese people we met were so pleasant and helpful.
There are lots of nice restaurants all over the town but one I would particularly recommend for exceptional food is 'O Castelo' just below the castle on the road fromt the train station to the Roman Bridge, also another we liked was 'D'Gusta' on the other side of river between Roman and rail bridges.
The beaches are lovely, take the ferry to Ilha Tavira 1€ each way, also Praia Do Barril, we went by bus to Pedras del Rei then took the little tour train across to the beach where we were amazed by the stretch of beautiful golden sand, the Cemetry of Anchors and the sparkling Atlantic.
We would definitely return and wouldn't hesitate to recommend this apartment to anybody.