From the moment we booked this apartment Joana & Tiago were extremely helpful. We had planned to arrive by train and they were going to collect us from the train station, but in the end we just got a taxi from Porto straight to Espinho as it was much easier with our luggage.
On arrival we were greeted with fresh fruit, biscuits, juice etc and full information on the apartment and surrounding area. My partner and I were in the need of vaccination boosters and we had been trying to get these for the last 2 weeks in Spain but to no avail. As soon as we explained this Joana, she was on the phone to the local pharmacy and hospital to arrange everything for us. Within the next 2 days she had everything organised for us and drove us to the pharmacy several miles away to sort this out.
My partner and I do a lot of travel for long periods of time. We spend months staying in hotels or self catering accommodation. We have always found the people in Portugal very hospitable and friendly, but Joana and Tiago take this to the next level. We were lucky enough to get together for drinks and dinner with them and their 3 year old son Miguel during our stay.
The apartment is modern, light and airy. In a great location with the beach, main shopping street, supermarkets, restaurants etc all within 10 minutes walk. We did not have a car and this was not a problem. You can walk everywhere, or use the bikes available, or get the train if you want to visit other towns or go to Porto.
The facilities are great. Washing machine with clothes rack to do the laundry, dishwasher and everything else you need in the kitchen to prepare meals. General cleaning equipment including laundry soap, washing up liquid,dishwasher tablets and other items of tin foil, plastic wrap etc are all here along with the basics of salt, pepper, herbs and olive oil.
Espinho is great place to come and relax. We had just finished walking the Camino to Santiago de Compostella in Spain and wanted to relax by a beach for a while. Espinho was a great choice.
We must mention the 'Cantina da Soussa' restaurant across the road from the apartment. Soup, Bread, Plate of the day (choice of meat or fish) and a drink for less than 5 euros. AMAZING home cooked food and their English is good too. Please go there if you stay here.
In summary, my partner and I have been travelling a total of 18 months out of the last 25 months, so we have stayed in A LOT of accommodation. This is our easily our favourite rental apartment with the best hosts. Thankyou Joana, Tiago & Miguel for a 5* stay in Espinho