Almancil, 5 miles East of Vilamoura.

On the fringes of the amazing landscape of the Ria Formosa Natural Park lies Pinheiros Altos, and excellent golf course that was originally designed by the American, Ronald Fream for its opening in 1992.

The 6,615 yard layout received a welcome boost when the renowned Peter McEvoy and Howard Swan reworked many of the holes, sharpening up the design and modernizing it to meet the demands of the modern game.

The predominant characteristic of Pinheiros Altos is that the two nines are vastly different in character; the outward half winds through the lovely pine trees, traversing the sandy turf of the coastline, while the closing stretch is distinctly more undulating, and is punctuated with a number of challenging water hazards.

Pinheiros Altos is also fortunate to have a fantastic practice centre, helping to underline it as a quality golfing destination, perfect for a round during your next trip to the Algarve.

The 4* Formosa Park Hotel and Apartments have an enviable location between the prestigious estates of Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, and are also within the boundaries of the spectacular Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, making it a special place to base your next holiday in the Algarve.

With the stunning Alcao Beach just 250 metres away, the hotel is a great choice for families and groups traveling with non-golfers, while for the avid golfer there are many fantastic courses nearby, including the neighbouring Pinheiros Altos. The accommodation is comprised of 61 pleasant apartment suites, with a good mix of one and two bedroom units.

All the rooms are furnished and decorated in a simple contemporary fashion, but are complete with all the necessary amenities that are required of a 4* property, including internet access, air-conditioning, satellite television and a safe, making it a great choice for a relaxing golf break in the Algarve sun.

Formosa Park's facilities include a large outdoor swimming pool with a fantastic sun terrace, but the highlight has to be the proximity to the Ancao Beach; the hotel operates free transfers to the sandy coast, where you can lounge in the sunshine or try your hand at an endless list of exhilarating water sports.