A sun-soaked holiday at a plush five-star resort on the Algarve is always a treat. But when you find yourself just a stone’s throw away from the legendary Sir Tom Jones, you know it’s going to be an unforgettable experience.
I found myself at the stunning Pine Cliffs Resort’s 21st Summer Gala in Albufeira, Portugal, watching the hip-swinging heartthrob still commanding the stage in his eighth decade. This fantastic sell-out event is the buzz of the town every year, with thousands of hotel guests and locals all scrambling for tickets to the black-tie spectacle.
A wander into the Golf Academy, the venue for the evening, revealed the line-up of the incredible stars who have headlined the event in previous years: Dionne Warwick, Gloria Gaynor, UB40, Michael Bolton, Ne-Yo and Kool and The Gang, to name but a few. This ultra-glamorous evening marked the start of my indulgent short break at one of Europe’s top resorts.
Pine Cliffs is truly a sight to behold. Lush green grass, dotted with guests lounging on sunbeds, leads down to striking orange cliffs that appear as though they’ve been sculpted from clay, reports the Mirror.
Pine trees dramatically cling to the craggy sandstone cliffs towering above the acclaimed Felesia Beach, set against a crystal-clear azure sky. Visitors are treated to an unforgettable journey beginning with a spectacular panoramic lift ride down the cliff to the beach, leading to a serene wooden walkway stroll towards a secluded lounge area – the perfect, tranquil start to the day, reports Wales Online.
However, following the previous night’s festivities, the climb back up can be challenging, which is why a trip to the distinguished Serenity Spa the Art Of Well Being offers an idyllic solution for rest and rejuvenation. Here, a skilled therapist skilfully banishes any lingering tension with the “Senses of the Algarve” signature massage – a transformative experience that turns even just 50 minutes into a renewal session.
The bliss continues as guests uncover the Thermal Oasis, a veritable labyrinth of tranquillity offering sensory showers, saunas, steam rooms, a hydrotherapy pool, and even an al fresco hot tub.
For those who favour activity over relaxation, Pine Cliffs Resort presents an array of energetic pursuits. Golf aficionados will delight in the picturesque nine-hole course spread across 168 acres perched atop the cliffs, accommodating novices and experts alike, punctuated by the formidable “Devil’s Parlour” challenge.
Plus, the Annabel Croft Tennis Academy nets a smash hit for sporty guests with expertly maintained floodlit courts, boasting two clay surfaces, state-of-the-art padel tennis facilities, as well as tailored coaching clinics and children’s classes.
Pine Cliffs has solidified its reputation as a top family destination, having been named “Best Family Resort in Portugal” six times at the World Travel Awards. The resort’s dedication to family entertainment is evident in its 7,000 sq ft children’s village, Porto Pirata, which features two life-size pirate ships, a kids’ pool, bouncy castle, basketball court, toy car track, and mini-golf course.
Additionally, the resort offers a children’s football academy in partnership with Estima Sports, providing daily training sessions and tournaments led by experienced coaches. For older kids, a games room equipped with the latest technology is sure to keep them engaged.
Dining and drinks options are plentiful, with nine restaurants and two bars spread across the resort’s 72-hectare site. The resort offers luxurious accommodations, including Pine Cliffs Hotel, Pine Cliffs Residence, and Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites, all part of The Luxury Collection.
With six pools on site, guests can enjoy ample space and sunbeds without feeling crowded. One evening, I enjoyed gin cocktails at the new Sunset pop-up gin bar, taking in the breathtaking view of the terracotta cliffs and feeling like I had it all to myself.
Nearby, the Miramar champagne bar was a popular spot for friends and couples, who could be seen enjoying glasses of bubbly while taking in the breathtaking views of the sandy beach stretching into the distance. If you’re looking to amp up your evenings, the chic Mare restaurant offers a roof terrace that’s perfect for sipping cocktails and grooving to DJs as dusk descends on the beachside vibe.
Pine Cliffs is a paradise for gourmands, boasting an array of sublime dining venues. Lunchtime at Corda Cafe sees the outdoor terrace come alive with the bustle of waiters delivering smoking hot fajitas to food enthusiasts.
Despite the sweltering 28C sunshine, curiosity got the better of me, and I opted for the prawn fajitas – a choice that proved itself more than worthy through every delectable, sweat-inducing bite. One evening, the vibrant Rohini pop-up by Little Miss India served up a feast of flavours from scrumptious aloo tikka chaat to succulent malai broccoli bathed in a rich cashew-cheese sauce, followed by a delightful paneer tikka masala and tender lamb korma mulghai.
Another enchanted night saw me whisked away to the heart of Italy at Portofino by MIMO, amidst the authentic buzz of Lemon Square’s popular pop-up trattoria. Specialising in wood-fired pizzas and fresh pastas, it’s a dream spot for families seeking a taste of Italian zest.
Meanwhile, over at Zest Pool Bar, an audacious statement from the bartender caught my attention when he proudly announced that he makes the “best pina colada in the world”. As a connoisseur of coladas myself, I accepted the challenge to be the judge and, truth be told, his claim was wholly uncontestable.
A visit to Zest cafe later tempered the effects of numerous pina coladas, which required tasting more than one to render a just verdict. A green goddess salad paired with an almond joy smoothie proved to be the perfect antidote.
A memorable moment was when I dined at the resort’s signature eatery O Pescador. Boasting a terrace view of the ocean, they dish up sublime seafood straight from local waters.
Then there was the afternoon spent lounging in sunlight whilst I nibbled on crumbly fish tacos, tender black squid calamari, and a medley of the freshest seabass, salmon, and octopus morsels I have ever had the pleasure of tasting.
It seems that Tom also shares a fondness for this place, having been spotted dining here with pals more than once!
At Pine Cliffs, it’s all about embracing the stunning vistas, indulging in the exceptional cuisine, and basking in sheer luxury.
Reflecting on Tom’s words as I journeyed back to the Green Green Grass Of Home, I recognised that the moments I experienced here would linger longingly in my memory.
As readers eagerly anticipate the headline act for Pine Cliffs Resort’s Summer Gala 2025, don’t hesitate – book your holiday now!