Sheraton Pine Cliffs Resort, Algarve, Portugal

Great resort, lovely beach, great pools, great children's facilities BUT ruined by the unbelievably expensive food and drink in the hotels bars, restaurants and shops. Had the food been excellent then we wouldn't have minded so much but it was average to say the least. €14 for a burger which tasted like it had been frozen, €20 per head for breakfast and I had to point out to the waitress that the strawberries had gone mouldy, €5 for a coffee, €8 for a children's tomato pasta...I could go on! Additionally the same children's menu was served in all the restaurants.

We wont be going back.

Mumsnetters' comments: The children's village is "well-equipped" and run by "caring staff" and "everyone seemed to either be playing golf or have kids so there were lots of English playmates of all ages". The beach is "stunning and empty" with a cool glass elevator for access, but the sea is cold and can be rough, so you may end up by the pools. Accommodation is spacious and comfortable: "our town house was bigger than our London flat!" and the service " exceptional". Don't bother sightseeing though, the local area is "hideous" and "at this price you'll want to get your money's worth from the resort!"

NB Mumsnet top tip: "Everything costs a lot in the hotel but there's a restaurant further along the beach (to the left if your back's to the sea) which is great for a good budget fish dinner".

Almost perfect. Beautifully kept grounds and public spaces. Several swimming pools (but only one heated, which is why it was 'almost' perfect - in October half-term). Lovely beach, in very attractive setting. Food good, but not fantastic, and very expensive but that's just the way with 5* hotels.

We had a three double-bedroomed ground floor apartment in the Residences which was roomy, light, well-equipped and spotlessly clean. Courteous, helpful staff (who all seemed to speak good English).

Very very large site, which was one of the main attractions for us. Beach was 15 minute walk, hotel for meals 10 minutes. We were aware of this beforehand and had no problem with it but could be a problem for families with very small children and people with impaired mobility.

Overall, extremely pleased.

Hi

Just been looking at reviews of the resort. Agree with all except the

townhouses in the village.

We stayed at B45 and it was fantastic.

Just been done up by owners and had friends round who were staying at terraces.

We are both booking back to B45 next year.Hotel charge more for this house but it is worth ever penny and more.

As mentioned elsewhere, DO NOT be tempted to join the Pine Cliffs Vacation Club if you have school age children. Pine Cliffs have oversold memberships to UK families which means it is virtually impossible to get the week you want. There is growing frustration amongst members about this. It's a shame because this is a beautiful resort with good, if expensive, facilities.