If you’re looking for a luxurious resort that draws guests back year after year, Pine Cliffs on Portugal’s Algarve coast is the perfect place – Debbie and I recently stayed and it did not disappoint! Located between Vilamoura and Albufeira, and only a 30-minute drive from Faro Airport, Pine Cliffs is more than a resort—it’s a sprawling, 72-hectare paradise that offers something for everyone.
On our recent stay we met a couple who have been coming here for 20 years, first with their small children who are now adults, and now they return as a family group. It’s so lovely to see!
Pine Cliffs offers six distinct accommodation options, each designed to suit different tastes and needs. Guests can choose from the main hotel, ocean suites, residences, villas, golf suites, and garden apartments. We stayed in a Grand Deluxe Room which is located in the main hotel and had a peaceful resort view, overlooking the serene gardens with a partial view of the ocean. The room was spacious with a separate sitting area, twin beds, bath, shower (having both is much appreciated) and plenty of storage space. All rooms offer thoughtful touches like complimentary water on arrival, a coffee and tea station, plush robes, and slippers. And the bed? Unbelievably comfortable, with the best pillows I think I’ve ever had in a room before – I really need some of these back at home too!
With such an expansive resort, it’s no surprise you’re given a quick overview and a map upon check-in, and there’s a handy shuttle service to get around the grounds. Pine Cliffs is truly a destination in itself with little need to venture off the resort unless you really want to, there is such an impressive range of activities and amenities.
If you’re a sports lover (or your family are) then there’s the renowned Annabel Croft Tennis Academy, a very popular 9-hole golf course, putting greens and football academy. Within the Annabel Croft Tennis Academy there are indoor and outdoor tennis and Padel courts, all looked exceptionally well-maintained and we’re told this year will see more Padel courts being added too given the ever-growing demand. Coaching, clinics, and recreational play are all available.
Each accommodation area is home to its own pool meaning no one area is ever over-crowded; guests are spread out throughout the 13 restaurants, various activity spots, shops, spa, gardens, bars, play area, kids club and beach.
For those looking to relax, a little exploring uncovered several quiet, peaceful gardens and cosy nooks which are perfect for unwinding. Without a doubt though the champagne bar atop the resort’s dramatic cliffside location is a standout location at the resort – photos simply can’t do justice to the views of the cliffs and ocean, especially at sunset. Watching the sun dip below the horizon from the cliff side really is pretty magical – it drew a small crowd, even in November.
The beach itself was just beautiful, with soft sands accessed by a lift then a few stairs and a wooden walkway, although if you’re feeling particularly active you can skip the lift altogether!
Sunbeds are available for hire, and while it’s not a private beach (as with all beaches in Portugal), it maintains an exclusive feel due to the direct access from the resort. For guests looking to explore off-site, there’s a small local shop, as well as a few local restaurants and bars nearby (within 5/10 minutes).
Pine Cliffs boasts a fantastic selection of restaurants, though it’s worth noting that some close in the off-peak season (you can check here to see which are open currently). Nonetheless, there’s always a great variety to choose from, and the food is consistently excellent. During the busy season, reservations are essential, so it’s best to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
We started our days with a fantastic breakfast, it’s buffet in style but with ‘live cooking’ stations which during our stay included omelettes and egg benedict. There’s a wide selection on offer, from fresh fruits, pastries, and cereals to lots of hot food options. There’s even a dedicated area for children, making it easy for families to enjoy their mornings. And I must mention there was a gluten free area too, totally separated from the main buffet.
For a healthy lunch, we tried Zest, a café located in a pretty square surrounded by lemon trees. I had a delicious chicken sourdough panini with fresh pesto and avocado, while Debbie chose the garlicky kale salad, which came highly recommended. Whilst we didn’t get to sample it on this trip, we’re told by both guests and staff that the fish options are delicious, and locally caught.
The Serenity Spa had a relaxed and peaceful vibe, a real sanctuary for adults to escape too. Beautiful treatment rooms are located along a corridor with ambient lighting, there is also a group treatment area complete with jacuzzi where guests can get ready for events or celebrate special occasions. The spa offers monthly treatment specials – during our stay, some massages were available at 50% off.
The hotel’s own brand of toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and body cream) is used throughout and also in your room too. Debbie sampled the ‘Orange Whispers’ shampoo and conditioner, which she loved. It left her hair silky smooth and smelling delightful (you can also purchase this range from the spa).
While Pine Cliffs has plenty to keep guests entertained, it’s also worth exploring the surrounding Algarve region. Albufeira, just a 20-minute taxi ride away, offers fantastic boat tours along the coast, showcasing the area’s famous sea caves and, if you’re lucky, dolphins. Even in November, we spotted six dolphins, including a baby—a truly special experience. The cave tours are both beautiful and educational, providing insight into the local heritage.
Pine Cliffs Resort is the perfect destination for anyone looking to blend relaxation with a touch of adventure. From the wide variety of accommodations to the endless activities, world-class dining, and breathtaking coastal views, this resort is truly unforgettable. Whether you’re here for the beach, the spa, tennis, golf, or simply to unwind, Pine Cliffs offers a unique and luxurious experience that will likely keep you coming back year after year.
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