Friday 3 July 2015

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.