Beach: Praia da Falesia is one of the most stunning beaches along this coast: a broad boulevard of golden sand stretched out beneath red-sandstone cliffs. It’s reached from the hotel via a glass-walled elevator down the face of the cliff.

Golf Courses: The 9-hole Pine Cliffs Golf Course winds through the old pine and out to the edge of the cliff, where a “Devil’s Parlour” par 3 famously demands a challenging ravine-traversing tee shot, from one clifftop to the next, while gazing at the Atlantic and beach below. There is also a golf academy, pro shop, driving range, short-game area, and large putting green. Instruction is available from the resident pros.

Pine Cliffs hosts Mimo Algarve, the largest culinary school in Portugal centered on a with a 300-square-meter, state-of-the-art Miele kitchen. Guests can sample local produce at the on-site gourmet food shop and enjoy a host of year-round gastronomic experiences, from seasonally-themed Portuguese cookery classes with a Michelin-trained chef to supper club feasts and wine tasting.

Spa & Fitness Center: Dubbed Serenity The Art of Well Being at Pine Cliffs, the spa comprises 13 treatment rooms, whose signature therapies draw inspiration from the indigenous cultures, healing traditions, and ingredients of the Algarve. It is complemented by a spacious fitness center, called Pine Cliffs’ Goes Active, bathed in natural light and well furnished with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment, free weights, a sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi, that indoor heated pool, and a range of daily activities and personal training.

Children's programs: Two life-sized, multi-functional wooden pirate ships are the centerpiece of a supervised children’s village, called Porto Pirata, whose facilities also include a dedicated kids’ swimming pool, a basketball court, a “racetrack” for toys on wheels, a bouncy castle, and mini-golf. Open seasonally for children aged 6 months to 8 years, Porto Pirata organizes a daily program of activities. Kids aged 8 to 12 years can take part in such activities as football (soccer), archery, arts; crafts, cricket and aqua-gym. Youth golf lessons, both group and private, are also available.

Dining: There are 11 cafes, restaurants, and bars, some open only seasonally, but offering everything from light fare to steaks and local seafood.