Endless golden beaches, flawless weather and mouth-watering food; you don’t need a dictionary to hand to know what paradise sounds like. And despite popular belief, you needn’t travel to the ends of the Earth to find such a utopia. In fact, this slice of heaven lies waiting for newlyweds less than three hours flight away in the Algarve, southern Portugal.
Often overlooked by honeymooners, the region is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places in western Europe, regularly topping luxury travel lists. And it's easy to see why; positioned by an alluring coastline, the Algarve offers newlyweds all the delights of further flung destinations, minus the long haul flights.
It’s a region of hidden gems, with tranquil coves and scalloped bays off the shore and fishermen’s fresh seafood, grilled, prepared and served under the heat of the Mediterranean sun. Historic castles, secluded islands and pretty villages freckle the Algarve, ready to be explored by intrepid newlywed adventurers while couples who prefer the sauna to the surf will be delighted to discover the Algarve is home to some of the best spas on the Continent.
Have we sold it to you? Good, because there are plenty of other treasures to uncover at Pine Cliffs Resort, an exquisite all-integrated resort hugging prime oceanfront. Within easy reach of the charming local town, Albufeira, and Faro International Airport, yet its own little secluded paradise, Pine Cliffs Resort is a five-star luxury hotel and resort offering the very best to newlywed couples on their first getaway as husband and wife.
What makes Pine Cliffs Resort a honeymoon destination?
The resort seems as though it’s custom-made for couples, with sunny spacious rooms, pretty tiling and grounds as gorgeous as the views. Influenced by Portugal's Arab heritage, Pine Cliffs Resort’s architecture works seamlessly with the natural environment all around it.
Everywhere you look it’s airy interiors, lofty ceilings and open patios; a welcome change if you normally live in a built-up urban environment.
There’s also a tremendously helpful concierge team to ensure your every need is attended to, from dinner bookings at Michelin-starred restaurants to organising day trips to islands off the coast and chauffeured cars to ferry you into town in style.
What else does the resort offer?
You name it, Pine Cliffs Resort probably has it. The award-winning resort houses a selection of shops and boutiques, including a florist (for impromptu bouquet giving), as well as a wellness spa offering face and body treatments and a health club complete with a state-of-the-art gym.
There’s also a vast selection of sports facilities. Tee off on the immaculate golf course set 200ft above sea-level, or enjoy a game of tennis on one of five floodlit courts. Don’t worry if you’re rusty, or a total newbie - both golf and tennis centres offer tuition services to help you master the game.
With the ocean as a neighbour, it’s only natural that water sports are another huge draw at Pine Cliffs Resort. Everything from sailboat tours to windsurfing lessons and surfboard rental can be organised for you by the resort’s friendly staff.
After all that sun, sea and sport, you’ll be ravenous. And that’s where the resort’s five restaurants and bars take the spotlight.
Tell me about the food
Treat your tastebuds to they day’s fresh catch at O Pescador – literally ‘The Fisherman’. The entire menu deserves a standing ovation, but for the best in seafood indulgence, the sweet and succulent lobster and scallops with foie gras and black truffle are hard to beat.
Want something you can really sink your teeth into? Try the Piri Piri Steak House for tender grilled mains with high-quality meat flown in from around the world.
And you’ll definitely want to make dinner reservations at O Grill, where a truly Mediterranean meal and wine gastro experience is best devoured in the terrace under the stars.
The Rooms
Decorated in warm neutral shades to accentuate the light and original Portuguese tiles and ceramics, each of Pine Cliffs Residence, a Luxury Collection Resort’s suites and room options make the perfect nest for a honeymoon escape. The tiled floors help keep the room cool (temperatures can reach a sizzling 35°C in the summer), and air-conditioning, Wi-Fi and a huge bed come as standard. A private balcony or terrace allows you to savour a leisurely breakfast before beginning the day’s adventures. Request a sea view room for unspoiled scenes of the Atlantic Ocean - it’s a sight you’ll never tire of seeing.
The Khush Verdict
Outstanding cuisine, first-rate facilities and panoramic views that belong on a big-budget Hollywood production; Pine Cliffs Resort ticks all the dream honeymoon boxes – and then some. The hardworking staff keep things running smoothly and nothing seems to be too much trouble for their valued customers. Even when the resort is at capacity, queues are kept to a minimum and it rarely feels crowded.
A world of leisure and gastronomy, there really is something for every couple at Pine Cliffs Resort. Why spend hours stuck in an airplane when 5-star luxury is so close by?
Honeymoon Checklist
• Less than three hours flight from the UK, with the nearest airport Faro International Airport
• Choice of 11 restaurants & bars within the resort, serving Mediterranean, Portuguese and international cuisine
• Car hire and chauffeured vehicles available - allowing you to explore the beautiful region at your own pace
• Experience Wellness at Pine Cliffs, a wellness service offering a wide range of luxury treatments
• Discover local towns Albufeira and Quarteira, full of culture and sights
www.sheratonalgarve.com