Pine Cliffs Hotel, Albufeira, Portugal

The resort is perched on the red cliffs that Albufeira is known for, above Praia Da Falésia. It's a half-hour drive from the airport, in a suburb close to the town. Turn right at the entrance to the complex to reach the hotel (or you'll end up at the golf course).

Visit Maré Restaurant for a delicious lunch by the beach - try the Algarvian gazpacho and octopus salad.

By plane: flights to Faro take around 3 hours from London and Manchester and 2 hours 30 mins from Bristol. The drive to the hotel takes 30 mins. Free parking on-site. Book flights to Faro.

The feel is that of a classic Algarve resort, with cream-coloured stucco, terracotta tiles and a citrus orchard. Cream colours continue through the interiors, with touches of blue tile décor, such as in the headboard adjoining the bed. Beyond the lobby is a typical Algarvean courtyard with a fountain.

The spa is enormous and offers a holistic approach, with offerings on nutrition and fitness as well as relaxation. Try an Outdoor View massage performed in the hotel's gardens. Our treatment was delivered by an excellent, intuitive therapist.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Swimming pool
• Beachfront location
• Golf course
• Tennis court
• Fitness centre
• Spa and wellness suite
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms are spacious, well laid out and comfortable. Décor is subtle and adds to the relaxing ambience. Our balcony was private and comfortable.

Room types: Deluxe Room, Grand Deluxe Room, Junior Suite, Duplex Suite, Neptune Suite

Key amenities: ensuite shower or bath, TV, free Wi-Fi

The buffet had a huge selection and great pastries, and a chef at breakfast time to make omelettes and eggs cooked to order. The Clubhouse Restaurant beside the golf course was a terrific location for enjoying delicious fish dishes and salads. Café Corda serves burgers, sandwiches and Portuguese dishes, and the bartender makes a mean margarita.

Clubhouse Restaurant: sandwiches, pasta, meat and fish mains. Open daily 9am-5pm. Mains from €15.