Essential information about our holidays in Spain and Portugal including what you can expect at your property.
Hotels
- Room prices include breakfast and at some hotels we have also negotiated a half board rate - where applicable proceed with your booking for a quote. Where half board has been purchased this is generally a 3 course set menu.
- Star ratings generally reflect the quality and standard of a hotel but some choose not to be classified although they are often of a high standard and excellent value.
- Services and facilities tend to vary according to the price so bear this in mind when deciding where to stay.
- Rooms are generally ready for check in from 2pm onwards and should be vacated by 11am on day of departure.
- Bedrooms have at least a shower and WC. As rooms are allocated on arrival, specific requests for a shower or bath can be noted, but not confirmed.
- At some hotels we also have superior or sea view rooms available - this is shown in the description - please proceed with your booking for a price.
- A room for 3 will generally be a twin bedroom with folding single bed. Family rooms are only suitable for 2 adults and 2 children under 12 - these are often larger twin rooms with additional sofa bed or folding beds added.
- Children occupying a full size bed pay the adult rate, except at hotels with the free child offer. When this is the case a child under 12 stays free, if sharing a twin/double room with 2 adults - meals are not included. This offer is not available from 18-20 April and 15 July - 27 August.
- We do not charge for hotel accommodation for children under 4, unless they occupy a full size bed. We can request a cot for babies or toddlers, but these are not always available and a charge will be made by the hotelier - payable direct. It is recommended, and often cheaper and easier, to take a travel cot.
- If you book six nights or more at a hotel with the 7 nights for 6 offer the seventh night is free. This offer is not available from 18-20 April and 15 July - 27 August and this does not apply if booking half board.
- The distances shown within descriptions are approximate and the restaurant closures are provided by our suppliers as a guideline - these may change without prior notice.
- There may be a charge for parking and leisure facilities. Some private and public garages cannot accommodate high vehicles such as large people carriers and Range Rovers.
- At Christmas and New Year hotels may offer something special - a festive menu, and perhaps entertainment. An additional charge is made when this occurs. Prices and availability are on request only.
All Self-Catering
- All accommodation has a fridge and cooking facilities and extras such as microwave, washing machine or dishwasher are listed. Keen cooks should read the descriptions carefully, as some properties only feature a hob.
- A mezzanine is an open gallery, often used for extra beds but not ideal for children with early bedtimes and the less mobile as they are generally reached by steep stairs. You should always supervise children on mezzanines.
- Stairs may be steep or narrow and/or open tread and may not have banisters - if so the description tells you.
- The maximum number of people that can stay in each property is shown in every description. Where it is shown as 4/6 it means standard beds for adults, plus smaller beds more suitable for children such as bunks. This maximum number cannot be exceeded unless authorised to do so by the property owner or agent. If friends are joining you at your accommodation and planning to stay overnight, you must let us know in advance so that arrangements can be made and permission obtained.
- Bathrooms have a bath (usually with shower attachment) and shower rooms have a shower. Neither includes a WC unless stated. En suites only have a WC if mentioned in the description.
- Clothes storage and/or hanging space may be limited in bedrooms.
- Properties with satellite TV do not necessarily receive English speaking channels but will normally obtain an international sports and news channel.
- Gardens are usually informal, with grassy areas instead of neat manicured lawns. If they are enclosed, the description tells you.
- Bicycles or games may be provided although they might show signs of wear and tear so you may prefer to take your own.
- Barbecues are not allowed at some of our accommodation except in dedicated areas. Where they are permitted, never be tempted to use a charcoal or barbecue grill indoors or in an enclosed area (such as tents) as this will cause a build-up of carbon monoxide.
- Smoking is not permitted inside chalets and apartments but acceptable on terraces and balconies. At casas it is generally not allowed indoors and some owners also request that clients do not smoke outside. If a member of your party is a smoker please call us before booking so that we can find out exactly what rules apply at your chosen accommodation.
- Some of the holiday facilities and activities detailed (especially swimming pools) may not be available outside the high season, and this is reflected in our prices.
- Whenever using a pool suitable swimwear must be worn and swimming shorts are not usually acceptable. Hats are also often compulsory in public pools.
- Properties will be cleaned after your departure, however you must ensure that you wash up and generally tidy to avoid money being deducted from your deposit.
- Bed linen and/or towels are provided unless stated otherwise. Remember to take tea towels.
- Cots and child beds may not always be the latest model and very often cots are travel cots.
- Your accommodation will generally be ready for you to arrive between 4pm and 6pm and you are requested to leave by 10am. When the ship arrives in Spain late afternoon arrangements have been made for an arrival at the property between 8pm and 10pm.
- Rentals include all gas, water, electricity and heating during the cooler months. From May to September inclusive, if any heating is used it will be charged for. Some wood may be provided but any extra will need to gathered or purchased by the clients.
- A cash deposit up to the value of €150 is payable on arrival. This is to cover damages that may be incurred but does not limit your liability. Where damages exceed the deposit value, Brittany Ferries will recover any outstanding amount from you on behalf of the supplier. If you are taking your pet an extra deposit may be requested. Details will be provided with your travel documents.
Casas
- Country homes, particularly those that are not permanently occupied by people, may well be the year-round homes of birds, bees or small furry things. This does not in any way reflect on standards of cleanliness, but may alarm those not used to rural living. Likewise, neighbouring farms will be seen as a delight for some and the source of smells and early morning noise by others.
- Our properties are hugely varied. One person's idea of blissful, away-from-it-all peace is another's dull isolation and some may find the charm of a working farm outweighed by early morning agricultural activities and animal noises.
- A living area will have table and chairs and some comfortable seating unless stated.
- In rural locations water is sometimes supplied direct from mountain streams - this can be consumed but guests may prefer drinking bottled water.
- Even though some pools are shown as being exclusive to clients the owners can choose to use them whilst their guests are out.
Apartments and Chalet Camping
- At campsites you may have to pay extra if you take a trailer as this takes up extra parking space.
- Where baby kits, linen, televisions etc are available to hire this should be requested well in advance as stock especially in high season is limited and subject to availability.
- When we are not completely specific about the types of beds (double, single, bunks etc) we have different combinations available. Please discuss your party's requirements with our reservations staff before booking.
- The apartment and chalet exterior and interior pictures are indicative of the style and type of décor and furnishings, but these can vary.
- Many activities such as golf, tennis etc cost extra and are paid for on site.
About your holiday
Want to stay in more than one place?
Any accommodation on our website can be used for a multi-centre holiday, with time spent in more than one location. To book a multi-centre holiday or for a quote please call our Reservations Team on 0330 159 4500.
Holiday cost
Although we have tried our best to show accurate prices on our website, where your travel is different to the date of stay, if mixing a route to France with a cruise to Spain, for stays spanning two seasons, prices will vary from those shown. Please proceed with your booking for a quote.
Ferry fares for holiday clients are greatly reduced, therefore if you travel abroad for 7 nights or longer a minimum of 3 nights' accommodation for all members of the party must be booked.
Special requests
Wherever possible we will try to meet your specific requirements but more often than not our suppliers allocate accommodation on arrival and although requests can be noted, we are unable to guarantee these. Please call our Reservations Team on 0330 159 4500.
Last minute bookings
We will do everything we can to take bookings up to 24 hours before departure. When booking within 1 month of sailing payment must be by credit or debit card or through a travel agent. Confirmation may not be possible instantly and it's a good idea to let us have a 2nd or 3rd choice. To make a last minute booking please call our Reservations Team on 0330 159 4500.
Disabled clients
Accommodation that may be suitable for clients with restricted mobility is shown with. However you must discuss your specific requirements with us before making your booking.
Swimming pools
Outdoor pools are normally open from mid June to mid September (if heated slightly longer) and may close due to weather conditions or if maintenance is required. This is entirely at the discretion of the management/owner. Also on board the Pont-Aven and Cap Finistère, under certain conditions the Captain may decide to close the pool. Whenever using a pool suitable swimwear must be worn and swimming shorts are not usually acceptable. Hats are also often compulsory in public pools. Parents should be extra vigilant and supervise children in and around pool areas at all times. Pets must never be allowed in a swimming pool.
Passport for pets
Most domestic pets can also discover the joys of France, Spain & Portugal by travelling under the Pets Travel Scheme. For information please go to www.defra.gov.uk or ring them on 0370 241 1710.
Where pets are accepted this is shown under extra services and the price shown is a price per pet per night unless stated otherwise. Some restrictions may apply. If you are taking more than one animal please let us know as we will have to make a special request which may be refused. For ferry travel prices please call us on 0330 159 4500.
Travel documents & advice
All passengers must have a valid passport. British passport application forms are available from Post Offices and you should allow up to 12 weeks for issue or renewal. Visas are not required for France, Spain & Portugal by EU nationals. Any child going abroad without a parent or legal guardian must also have a letter of consent otherwise permission to travel may be refused.
For queries visit www.gov.uk or call the HM Passport Office on 0300 222 0000. When in mainland Spain please note there are British consulates in Alicante, Barcelona, Madrid and Malaga. Contact: 00 34 902 109 356.
The latest travel advice from the government can be found at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. This information can change so please look prior to booking and before travelling.
Preferential €uro rates
As a holiday client you will benefit from preferential rates and Brittany Ferries will charge you no commission when you buy Euros in our Poole or Plymouth terminals. You can also use our Call & Reserve Euro service by ringing 0330 159 4999 to order at least 72 hours in advance and collect when you check in at any of our UK ports. Plus there is the Brittany Ferries Euro MasterCard.
Find out more about all the options available and more details.
Driving abroad
You must take your insurance certificate, vehicle registration document and written permission to take the car abroad if it is not registered in your name. All members of the party who intend to drive abroad must also take their driving licences and be over 18.
It is important that you find out what the legal motoring regulations are when abroad as instant fines are levied by the police - for up to date information and to plan your route visit theaa.com.
Travel insurance
Brittany Ferries has partnered with Voyager Insurance Services Ltd, an award-winning provider of Travel and Vehicle Breakdown Insurance, to help protect you, your family and your vehicle. See travel insurance for more information.
You should have personal and medical travel insurance and are responsible for ensuring that the cover is adequate for your needs. We also suggest that you check with your own insurance whether you are covered for damages you may cause to persons or property whilst you are abroad as you will be liable for any such damage.
All members of your party will also need a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Apply online at www.ehic.org.uk - telephone 0300 330 1350. Many insurance companies insist on this being used before a claim is made on your Personal Travel Insurance.
You must check with your insurance company whether you are insured to drive abroad.
Price match guarantee
If you can find an identical holiday at a lower price within 28 days of booking with Brittany Ferries, we guarantee to match it. The price match excludes insurance, special offers, loyalty bonuses, group and travel agent discounts.
Fully bonded holidays
We are a member of the Association of British Travel Agents so you can book with confidence in the knowledge that your holiday is totally secure.
Our holiday helpline
If you encounter any problems on holiday that you cannot resolve yourself, we operate a Holiday Helpline, with English speaking staff on hand to give you any assistance you require. Details are supplied with your holiday documents.
Fiestas
These play an important part in Spanish and Portuguese culture and many towns and villages celebrate religious days and other important occasions. Fiestas can be numerous and often the dates are only confirmed at the last minute. Expect firework displays, fairgrounds and loud music playing through the night.
Public Holidays
On public holidays you will find shops and banks are often closed, so make sure you have enough local currency to tide you over. And remember, trading laws often do not allow you shopping on a Sunday except in tourist areas.
2019 Spanish Bank Holidays
January 1, 6
April 19 & 21
May 1
August 15
October 12
November 1
December 6, 8 & 25
2018 Portuguese Bank Holidays
January 1
April 19, 21 & 25
May 1
June 10 & 20
August 15
October 5
November 1
December 1, 8 & 25
There are also other regional and town holidays that are too numerous to show here.
What do to if you have an emergency whilst abroad?
The European emergency number is 112. This will allow you to contact the ambulance, police, or fire services.
More information on this can be found at the European Commission Information Site:
http://ec.europa.eu/digital-agenda/112
