October Half Term Holidays in the Algarve

Enjoy a Fun-Filled Family Holiday at Penina Resort This October

We may be a little biased, but with seasonal highs of 19˚C and a whole range of attractions on offer, we think the Algarve is the ideal destination for a family holiday this October half term. The Algarve’s wealth of outdoor activities, from golf to cycling, swimming and even go-karting can be enjoyed without the soaring temperatures of the summer… and the hustle and bustle that high-season brings. To top it off, there’s also a whole host of exciting events to look forward to! We’ve put together a short guide, making it easy to plan the perfect fun-filled family holiday in the Algarve this October.

Family-Friendly Facilities at Penina

Trying to keep littles ones (and some older folk) entertained can be quite a challenge during the holidays but we think we’ve got the secret to success… choice! Our 360 acre estate boasts the largest private outdoor non-heated pool in the Algarve, a FIFA size football pitch, five ATP tennis courts… oh, and did we mention that we’re the only resort in the whole of Portugal that’s home to three golf courses?

However, the cherry on the cake is our world-class kids club. 3,000m2 dedicated to fun with fully supervised indoor and outdoor play areas that include games, toys, a swimming pool, football pitch, bike track… and much more! While younger members of the family are having the time of their lives, parents can explore our leisure facilities and perhaps take the opportunity to enjoy a round or two on our legendary 18-hole Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course...

Prefer the less-is-more approach to holidays? Opt for lying back on one of our pool-side loungers, a warm breeze in the air and a clear blue sky above. Or perhaps indulge in a massage, treat skin to a trip to the sauna, or enjoy a pampering session in our onsite beauty salon. Once polished from head-to-toe, head over to one of our many fine-dining destinations and indulge a little more in a range of local and international gourmet dishes. The best bit? Kids eat for free with our five night family package, from just €167 per room per night.

What's on in the Algarve This October?

UK half term will be between the 24th and 28th of October for many schools this year, meaning holidays can potentially start as early as Saturday the 22nd and end on Sunday the 30th. There are a range of family-friendly events and attractions on offer across the Algarve during that time and we’ve narrowed the selection down to a few of our favourites.

International sand sculpture festival, FIESA, will be open until the 30th of October and is located just 18 minutes from our hotel. This year’s theme is music, so expect to see iconic rock stars and instruments feature heavily within what has become the largest sand sculpture exhibition in the world. It also offers the chance to learn more at workshops and demonstrations, and enjoy live music, dance and circus performances.

Though a little further away, Faro’s Santa Iria Fair should be worth the journey. Not only is it one of the largest fairs in the Algarve, it’s also thought to have started earlier than 1596, making it one of the oldest too. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the variety of rides on offer, while the rest of the family can browse stalls selling candy floss, fritters, candied fruit and arts and crafts. Enjoy hours of fun here between the 14th and 23rd.

Autódromo Internacional do Algarve is home to karting tracks, including one specially designed for children, an off-road park, racing school and one of Europe’s leading professional circuits. This impressive track boasts 32 different layout options and has hosted the likes of the Superbike World Championships and the International GT Open (find out more here). As well as offering all the above, it’ll also be hosting the Algarve Classic Festival between the 28th and 30th of October.

Over 380 drivers will be taking part in the festival’s 10 European Classics Championships, which will include the GT&Sport Car Cup featuring Pre-1966 GT and pre-1963 sports cars. Take this unique opportunity to watch as some of the world’s most admired classic cars compete and in the words of the event’s organiser ‘…appreciate the beauty… of hearing an Aston Martin DB4 Zagato or a Ferrari 512M racing at full throttle’. Located less than 15 minutes from our resort, this is a must-see for car fans and their families this October.

Last, but definitely not least, the Portugal Masters will be taking place between the 20th and 23rd at Oceânico Victória, just 40 minutes from Penina. Andy Sullivan’s nine shot victory last year will be hard to follow… but we’re looking forward to seeing this year’s contenders try! The European Tour tournament will see leading international players compete for €2,000,000 prize money in the Algarve – offering the ideal day out for golf fans staying at Penina this October.

From world-class golf to racing cars, fairground rides and the ultimate sand castles, the Algarve can boast an exciting array of attractions this autumn! If you’re planning a family holiday in the Algarve this October, take a look at our five-night package that includes daily buffet breakfast, three dinners per person, exclusive discounts and much more!

We look forward to welcoming you to Penina for a fun-filled half term this October!

Penina Golf Week Returns for 2016

Compete on our Championship Course in our 50th Anniversary Year

1966 was a legendary year for sport; England won the World Cup, Muhammad Ali successfully defended his world heavyweight title five times... and the very first 18-hole golf course opened in the Algarve. That’s right, it’s our 50th birthday! It’s been half a century since Sir Henry Cotton opened Penina’s gates to excited hotel guests and eager golfers, and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate than to invite you to join us for a round or two on our world-famous Championship Course.

With its thousands of Pine and Eucalyptus trees, stream and lakes, our scenic course will undoubtedly provide an outstanding golfing experience any day of the year. However we think the ultimate way to mark our milestone will be to take part in Penina Golf Week. Having gained a reputation for being the Algarve’s greatest golf tournament, our exclusive event will see an array of international talent compete during four glorious days on the course...as well as provide a whole host of exciting entertainment off it too!

Our seven day programme will be jam-packed with five-star experiences perfect for both competitors and their loyal entourage. A welcome cocktail on the 8th of May will kick-off proceedings (naturally), followed by a delicious buffet dinner and a chance to mingle with fellow players from around the world. Swap stories, suss out the competition and perhaps even gain a tip or two from an over-zealous rival. However, we advise against too much revelry as the first full day will offer the chance to get to grips with the curves and contours of the 50th year old course... practice makes perfect after-all!

The first half of the Aggregated Individual Stableford Competition will begin at the very precise time of 9.04am on the 10th. Watch out for the creek on the 2nd hole, ease through the large green at the 8th before bracing yourself for the demanding 13th. This challenge has gained so much admiration that its been named one of the top 500 holes in the world and requires an aim slightly to the centre-left to avoid a large lake. After two full-days of flexing golfing muscles, there’ll be the chance to relax and rest up on the 11th for the those who need it, or alternatively take the opportunity to explore our full range of five-star facilities such as swimming pools, a FIFA size football pitch and floodlit tennis courts.

The tournament will resume on the 12th with the nail-biting second half of the Stableford, before continuing with a Two Ball Better Ball the following morning. Once the last bunker’s been conquered and winners decided, it’ll be time to don your finery for what will be an unforgettable evening of celebration. A pre-dinner drink will set the tone, before prizes for the likes of 1st, 2nd and 3rd, best ‘Gross’ result and a daily ‘Nearest the Pin’ are presented. After which competitors and guests alike will be able to let their hair down at a gala dinner; a glamorous finale to an outstanding week of golf in the sun-soaked Algarve.

With limited places and prices starting from just €121 per person per night, there’s no better time to book your place on May’s Golf Week...but only if you think you’re up to the challenge of competing on the world-renowned Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course in its anniversary year. It may only be January, but 2016 already looks set to be the most exciting year yet at Penina.

Video Walkthrough of the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course

Learn How to Navigate our World-Class Course Before Arriving

Those who haven’t had the pleasure of teeing off on the lush green grounds of the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course yet can now take the unique opportunity to experience what its 18-hole layout can offer from their laptops and phones. Using exclusive footage filmed from a low flying helicopter, we’ve put together an 18 section walkthrough of our renowned course to offer the chance to see what challenges and beautiful scenery lay ahead before booking your luxury golfing break at our resort.

Built in 1966 by three times British Open Champion Sir Henry Cotton, the renowned par 73 course has hosted the likes of the Portuguese Open, National Finals of the Audi Corp and Daily Telegraph Senior’s Match Play. With the vision of offering year-round golfing in an area known for its sought-after climate, Sir Henry Cotton transformed what was once paddy fields into the first 18-hole golf course in the Algarve. His creation boasts thousands of shrubs, eucalyptus and pine trees, alongside streams, lakes and a variety of ditches and slopes; making for a truly unrivalled experience.  

If that’s whet your golfing appetite, our walkthrough will undoubtedly excite and inspire. Watch with trepidation as footage traces the curves of the lake at the 13^th hole; the key here is to aim for a well struck shot slightly angled to the centre-left to conquer what’s been voted as one of the best 500 holes in the world. Admire the long, narrow green of the 9^th hole, framed with towering trees as you turn towards our hotel, and imagine crossing the quaint bridges of the 5^th hole while taking in the stunning sun-soaked surroundings.

Though our video footage, tips and course plans will offer an exceptional level of insight into each of the course’s 18 holes, nothing will quite prepare you for the awe-inspiring views and competitive task ahead upon arrival. After taking a mental note of each bunker and creek to avoid, browse our latest offers and packages before booking an outstanding golfing holiday in the Algarve at Penina Hotel & Golf Resort. 

Iconic Golf Courses in the Algarve

...and the Unforgettable Experiences They Can Offer You this Autumn

We've often followed the line of thought that when it comes to designing challenging yet awe-inspiring golf courses, who could be better qualified or equipped for the job than an ex-professional? The Algarve is home to two shining examples of this theory in action. Having successfully navigated some of the best courses in the world, both Sir Henry Cotton and Arnold Palmer chose to bring their expertise to Portugal’s south coast to create two exceptional golf destinations. Whether you’re seeking to test your own skills or simply admire the work of others, we recommend a visit to both of these iconic courses during an autumn golf break in the Algarve.

The Portugal Masters at Oceânico's Victoria Course 

Professional golf player Arnold Palmer was always destined to do well post-retirement.

With a likeable presence and an astonishing 92 victories, including four Masters, he was named ‘Golfer of the Century’ by the New York Athletic Club and has his name hanging in the PGA Hall of Fame. Putting this extensive experience to good use, Palmer began developing and designing courses, ranging from renovations at the Latrobe Country Club, where he had practised as a child, to the creation of Oceânico's 18 hole Victoria Course. The latter opened in central Algarve during 2004 and boasts lush vegetation, lakes and waterfalls, alongside an outstanding driving range and 2,500m² putting green.

As well as hosting the World Cup of Golf in 2005, the 220 acre Victoria Course has also been the home to every Portugal Masters since it began in 2007. This year’s tournament will be held between the 15th and 18th of October and is set to attract big name competitors with its €2,000,000 prize fund. Despite only having been active for 8 years, the professional tournament has quickly become one of the leading golf events in Europe and has been described as a challenge from start to finish, with undulating fairways, numerous bunkers and sizeable water hazards. Its difficulty was heightened last year with the arrival of torrential rain, which eventually led to a saturated course and a short but nonetheless captivating 36-hole tournament won by Alexander Levy. Fingers crossed that the sun will remain shining long into the autumn this year, and a full and fun-filled three days will prevail!

Five-Star Facilities at Penina's Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course 

After winning 31 professional titles, including 11 Opens, Sir Henry Cotton also chose to apply his expertise to golf architecture. His grand ambitions included building the very first course in the whole of the Algarve; an achievement he completed in 1966 with the opening of Penina’s renowned 18-hole Championship Course. The golfing legend, who later became the first professional golfer to receive a knighthood, transformed rice fields into lush grounds featuring lakes, streams and over 360,000 trees, and created a 13th hole that’s been described as "one of the best par 3s in the world". Cotton is claimed to have said “the best is always good enough for me” and his creation has certainly lived up to this standard, having been chosen to host the Portuguese Open 10 times, including the first European Tour event in 1973. 

As well as the two 9-hole loops that form the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course, our 360 acre estate also boasts two additional courses, a renowned golf academy run by world-class pros, a driving range... and a five-star resort. After a long, sun-soaked day spent putting your skills to the test, its luxurious rooms and suites, and six restaurants and bars offer the perfect surroundings in which to relax and indulge within. Away from the courses, Penina Hotel & Golf Resort also boasts the largest private outdoor non-heated pool in the Algarve, a FIFA size football pitch, floodlit tennis courts and much more, making it the ideal destination for a luxury golf break in the Algarve. 

With only a 35 minute drive between Oceânico's Victoria Course and Penina’s Championship Course, it’ll be easy to plan the ultimate golfing break in the Algarve this autumn. Tickets to watch the Portugal Masters are available now from just €21.20, while golfers keen to play an unforgettable round or two on the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course can find residential and non-residential rates here.  Alternatively, we also offer an array of outstanding golf packages that include five-star accommodation, delicious buffet breakfasts, rounds of golf and so much more at Penina. Whether you’re planning to watch, play or simply pick up tips, head to two of the Algarve’s most iconic courses this autumn for a truly outstanding golf experience. 

Football Retreats in the Algarve

FIFA Size Pitch & Euro 2016 Qualifiers in the Algarve 

With three stunning courses, including the world-class Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course, a golf academy and exclusive competitions, the five-star Penina Hotel & Golf Resort is well-equipped to deliver one of the best luxury golf holidays in the Algarve. But did you know that our 360 acres also contain a FIFA size pitch? The 99 x 65 metre space has been played on by the likes of Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund during training retreats, and makes Penina the perfect Algarve destination for football fans too.

Football Retreats in the Algarve 

With temperatures soaring above 30°C, you’re more likely to spot a footballer lounging by the pool in the sun-soaked Algarve this summer. However, come the winter months, when the air cools to a more comfortable 15°C, our five-star facilities are perfect for motivating teams mid season. We offer professional football packages that include exclusive use of the pitch, full-board in a private dining space, as well an array of other added benefits including training equipment, a massage room, meeting room, and 3km on-site jogging track.

If your footballing skills aren't quite up to a professional standard just yet, when the pitch isn't booked out by some of the world’s leading teams, it’s also available to hire. After working up a sweat putting friends and family through their paces, refresh with a shower in one of our luxurious rooms or suites, before taking a well-deserved rest by the pool. Alongside golf and football facilities, we also offer five floodlit tennis courts, a beach club and the chance to go mountain biking for those looking to keep active during a five-star getaway.

 Euro 2016 Qualifiers 

After putting your own skills to the test, head to Estádio Algarve this autumn to catch two Euro 2016 qualifying matches. Located just 35 minutes from Penina, the 30,000 capacity venue is currently acting as Gibraltar’s ‘home from home’, due to the team's normal ground, Victoria Stadium not meeting UEFA standards. Football fans along Portugal’s southern coast have already enjoyed watching Gibraltar compete in Group D against Poland, Germany and Georgia… and are looking forward to forthcoming games against the Republic of Ireland on the 4th of September and Scotland on the 11th of October. 

Based on a population of just 30,000, the Gibraltar national team are the smallest UEFA member and the Euros are their first ever competitive international games. However, with an FA that dates back to 1895, what they may lack in international experience, they make up for in passion… which will be needed when they’re up against two opponents potentially battling it out for the play-offs. All teams will be wanting to show-off their prowess on the international stage, making these games unmissable viewing for any football fan visiting the Algarve.

Originally built for Euro 2004, the Algarve Stadium’s awe-inspiring fusion of steel and concrete, curved roofs reaching 73 metres high and stunning coastal views are ideal for putting the region’s football facilities on the international map. Combine its upcoming events with our FIFA size pitch and Penina Resort becomes the perfect holiday destination for any football fan. Book your break now with our latest offers and packages here.

World-Class Racing Experiences in the Algarve

Unforgettable Holiday Activities That’ll Have More Than Just Your Heart Racing

Though Penina Hotel is renowned for offering luxury golf holidays, its location also offers easy access to a range of activities that’ll boost adrenaline a little more than approach shots. With the opportunity to admire incredible views during a skydive, catch a North Atlantic wave, and climb jaw-dropping cliff faces, the choice available in the Algarve certainly won’t leave you feeling underwhelmed. However the ‘cream of the crop’ has to be the chance to take an array of sports cars for a spin at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, one of Europe’s leading professional circuits. With state-of-the-art facilities praised by Lewis Hamilton and Michael Schumacher, we invite you to fasten your seatbelt and take control of the steering wheel during a five-star stay in the Algarve.

Autódromo Algarve

Located less than 15 minutes from the luxury Penina Hotel & Golf Resort, Autódromo Internacional do Algarve boasts over 700 acres of world-class facilities that have attracted the likes of BMW and McLaren to present here. From 32 different circuit layout possibilities, to one of the largest karting tracks in Europe and an extensive off-road course, it has been designed to both impress and challenge. The 15,000 seat VIP viewing tower and steep slopes ensure the 100,000 capacity venue offers great views over the track, which can stretch up to the F1 length of 4,684 metres. Alongside hosting annual and seasonal events that have included Le Man Series, Superbike World Championships and the International GT Open, it offers the chance to try out the tracks for yourself with courses and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that’ll have more than just your heart racing.

Racing School

Whether you’re hoping to master one of the world’s most sought-after sports cars or simply fancy a couple of electrifying laps, the Autódromo in Portimão will more than deliver. Take a short trip down the M532 after a relaxing round on the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course, and you can soon be revving up the engines of a Porsche GT3, Nissan GTR or Porsche Cayman S. For something a little more indepth, a selection of four courses will offer the chance to learn from technical briefings, agility exercises and trips around the track; varying in price from €299 with a Peugeot RCZ, to €999 with a Porsche 911 Carrera… and a whole host of additions.

Motorbike fans can benefit from Miguel Praia’s advice during the ultimate day out. Discover tricks for riding at the Autódromo do Algarve through lectures, practical activities and video analysis, ensuring you’re fully prepped for a timed track session. Meanwhile, those looking for the rush without the worry can sign-up for ‘taxi’ experiences, during which you simply sit back and watch while professional instructors take you for two unforgettable rounds.

Off-Road & Karting Experiences

Alongside the smoother curves of the professional circuits, a 5,180 metre off-road route will offer a less-polished, all-terrain experience. Those holidaying with their own high performance vehicles can enjoy navigating man-made obstacles and water splash areas during track days. While a moto course offers a range of techniques to help riders rise to the demands of the off-course experience. Fun experiences for the whole family also await on a specific children’s karting track for under 6’s. Ideal for group outings, Karting International Algarve also contains a restaurant, shops, a 1,531 metre track and over 50 karts available for hire.

After a challenging day spent pushing an array of powerful vehicles (and your nerves) to their very limits, Penina Hotel & Golf Resort will offer a luxurious place to rest your head. With six restaurants and bars to choose between, you’ll easily find a delicious bite to eat and the perfect tipple to toast an outstanding day out, before retreating to your five-star room or suite. Use the hotel’s Wi-Fi to share photos of your incredible driving experience and look forward to waking up to another morning at the leading luxury golf resort in the Algarve. Find its latest offers and packages here.

Experiencing the Natural Beauty of the Algarve

From Turquoise Blue Waters to Serene Rolling Hills

With all the five-star facilities, iconic golf courses and excellent restaurants, it’s perfectly possible to enjoy your entire holiday making the most of all Penina Hotel & Golf Resort has to offer. However, if a sense of wanderlust does take hold, there are so many amazing examples of natural beauty to be seen across the region. Here’s our pick of the very best destinations to visit on your scenic tour of the Algarve.

 

Beaches

Found at the point where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea, the Algarve is blessed with some of the finest beaches in all of Portugal. Chief among these is the Praia de Falesia in Albufiera, which has been named as one of the very best beaches in Europe by TripAdvisor. Famous, for its soft golden sand and distinctive orange cliffs, the beach is a favourite among tourists and locals alike. Other popular beaches include the tranquil Praia de Marinha and the picturesque Alvor Boardwalk, located just a few minutes’ drive from Penina.

Serra de Monchique

Approximately 15 miles inland from the west coast of the Algarve, you’ll find the imposing Serra de Monchique mountain chain. The highest point in the chain is the mountain of Fóia, which tops out an impressive 902m. Hiking in these mountains is very popular for two important reasons: the views and the wildlife. It’s obviously essential to take the necessary precautions when heading out on a hike, but the relatively gentle slopes mean it is accessible to even novice hikers. Plus, there’s a chance you might see an eagle or rare Iberian lynx, just a few of the animals that call the Algarve home.

 

Ria Formosa Nature Park

If the trek up the Serra de Monchique is too challenging, another popular visitor attraction where you can find peace and tranquility is the Ria Formosa Nature Park. Covering over 170km² of land on one of the southernmost spots of Portugal, the park certainly has plenty to explore. Set aside to provide a home for the region’s animal and plant life, you’ll be able to see a range of wildlife and lush greenery. In particular, the array of birds that will land there during migratory periods are quite a sight to behold. You can explore the park on foot, by bicycle or even kayak around the many lagoons and tributaries.  

Ria Formosa from above.

Explore the Algarve on a Wine and Cycling Tour

All of these excellent examples of nature found in the Algarve region are within easy travelling distance from the five-star Penina Hotel & Golf Resort. However, if you really want to experience as much of the Algarvian landscape as possible, join us for an action-packed Wine and Cycling Tour. During a seven-night stay in our five-star accommodation, you’ll experience three action-packed cycling tours, exploring everything from the hills of Serra de Monchique to the bustling city of Portimao.

Click here to book or find out more.