Portugal’s prestigious Pine Cliffs Resort offers stunning views over the Atlantic and plenty more finery, as LEANNE RINNE finds out

I STAND still for a few seconds, looking out towards the ocean below. One of the best things about Portugal's Pine Cliffs Resort is the uninterrupted views of the Atlantic. The hotel, its residential apartments and new Ocean Suites are perched high on striking sandstone cliffs which ripple like melting ice-cream down to the stunning beach below.

The luxurious resort, which stretches 72 hectares along the Algarve coast, celebrates its 25th anniversary next year and has just undergone a massive 50million euro refurbishment.

The original Pine Cliffs Hotel has been updated and now 217 rooms stand proudly alongside 148 new Ocean Suites (one and two bedroom apartments) and state-of-the-art Serenity Spa.

There are 11 restaurants, six swimming pools, bike riding, water sports, an impressive kids' club and the Annabel Croft Tennis Academy.

Although many of the facilities are great for families, I'm visiting in September when the kids are back at school and beaches are blissfully empty.

Golden sands stretch for as far as the eye can see along the Albufeira coastline.

I walk down to Falesia beach, where only a few bathers are basking in the sun on the resort's private section, reached by a panoramic elevator.

Although the public beach is one of the longest in the Algarve and only a 30-minute drive from the bustling city of Faro, steep access down the amber-coloured cliffs keep crowds away.

With more than 6km of pristine sands, it's a great place for sun-worshippers seeking a bit of peace and quiet.

For those who enjoy walking and exploring, you can reach Vilamoura Marina in about an hour if you follow the coastline, watching the cliffs change colour as the day unwinds.

The marina has a huge variety of restaurants, bars and shops. However, at Pine Cliffs, I quickly realise there's more than enough to keep me entertained.

The hotel's terracotta floors, whitewashed architecture and traditional hand-painted tiles ooze local heritage and culture. All the main facilities have been carefully built around lush, landscaped gardens to create a warm, village atmosphere and no area ever feels crowded.

Portugal has developed a reputation for being one of the best golfing destinations in the world, so it's no surprise Pine Cliffs boasts its own golf academy and signature hole, nicknamed the 'Devil's Parlour', where golfers have to hit the ball more than 190m over a ravine... without being distracted by the dramatic ocean drop!

The property's new spa definitely gives the resort the extra wow factor - I feel like royalty sat in the majestic reception and struggle to choose from the 15 types of massage on offer.

After careful consideration, I opt for the 'slim massage', which targets everything that wobbles.

I emerge feeling pampered and revitalised and I swear my bikini bottoms fit a little better.

Inspired to stay in shape, I head to the hotel's new healthy restaurant, Zest, which specialises in fresh, low-calorie juices and snacks to satisfy guests keen to detox.

But smoothies and juices aside, it would be rude to come all this way and not try some of Portugal's fantastic wines.

The Novacortica Cork Factory in Sao Bras de Alportel, which dates back to the 19th century, is only a short drive from the resort.

On a guided tour, which takes around half an hour, I learn how this versatile substance is carefully shaped and transformed to produce the cork that neatly fits into the top of a bottle of Moet.

Afterwards, I sit on a cool, cork-covered sofa and sample some local produce during a wine-tasting lesson.

At first, we're all a little reluctant to suggest what we think the appearance, flavour or aroma of the wine might be. But a couple of glasses later, the atmosphere turns from medium-dry to fruity, before finishing on a somewhat hazy note...

Back at the resort, I head to the beach to watch the sunset. Despite occupying such a prime position, this place still feels like a hideaway; a secret I'm somewhat reluctant to share.

TRAVEL FACTS

Leanne Rinne was a guest of Pine Cliffs Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort (www.luxurycollection.com/pinecliffshotel). Prices for the new Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites start from 230 euros per room, per night (two sharing).

Pine Cliffs also offers investment opportunities via its holiday ownership options and selection of freehold properties.

Monarch (www.monarch.co.uk) operates flights to Faro from Birmingham, Leeds Bradford, London Gatwick, London Luton and Manchester airports, with fares, including taxes, starting from £59 one way (£119 return).