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Inside the huge Portuguese hotel that's its own holiday destination – with pop star shows and swim-up cocktail bars
Inside the huge Portuguese hotel that's its own holiday destination – with pop star shows and swim-up cocktail bars

The Irish Sun

timea day ago

  • Entertainment
  • The Irish Sun

Inside the huge Portuguese hotel that's its own holiday destination – with pop star shows and swim-up cocktail bars

Set among fragrant pine trees and perched high above the golden sands of Portugal's most stunning coastline, Pine Cliffs manages to blend luxury with a warm, relaxed atmosphere SANDS GREAT Inside the huge Portuguese hotel that's its own holiday destination – with pop star shows and swim-up cocktail bars YOU don't often get to sip a cocktail on a clifftop, under an orange sunset, while Ronan Keating prepares to perform for you. But it turns out that's exactly what you can expect at the Pine Cliffs Resort on the sun-kissed Algarve. 7 Pine Cliffs has lofty views set amid stunning nature Credit: Supplied 7 The tempting hotel pool Credit: Supplied Advertisement 7 The hotel's thermal oasis Credit: Supplied Set among fragrant pine trees and perched high above the golden sands of Portugal's most stunning coastline, Pine Cliffs isn't just a resort, it's a destination. Think postcard-perfect beaches, a backdrop of red-ochre cliffs and five-star facilities that make you feel like A-listers. Our trip coincided with Pine Cliffs' annual Summer Gala, the resort's most glamorous event of the year. And it truly delivered on every front. Advertisement The evening began with a glitzy cocktail reception on the manicured green of the driving range, as the golden Algarve sun dipped behind the cliffs. A saxophonist filled the air with smooth jazz while guests mingled over glasses of fizz. Taking our seats at tables with pearly white linen for an extravagant three-course buffet, we were serenaded by various singers. Then came the show-stopping moment: Ronan Keating took to the stage. Advertisement The former Boyzone member's voice, as smooth as the champagne, had the crowd singing, swaying and swooning. To top the night off, when Ronan finished his last song, fireworks burst into the summer sky, lighting it up. We couldn't have asked for a more magical night. But the gala was just the cherry on top of what turned out to be one of the most relaxing getaways we've ever had. Martin Lewis warns about strict passport rule that could see you board your flight - only to get sent home on arrival Pine Cliffs is a haven for both adrenaline junkies and sun-worshippers. The resort also seems as able to cater for family fun as it can for couples on romantic getaways. Advertisement While I happily spent hours lounging on Falesia beach, sunbathing with a book, my partner Jonah threw himself into the water sports. He loved paddle-boarding along the clear, calm shoreline. I won't lie — it was more wobbly than graceful, but he laughed the whole way through. The resort also offers kayaking, jet skis and couch/banana boat rides. For those in search of next-level pampering, the Serenity Spa at Pine Cliffs is unmissable. I indulged in the 80-minute Senses Of The Algarve body scrub, a heavenly experience blending local carob and soothing oils. The therapists here are miracle workers, and I floated out of the spa feeling like I'd left all my stress on the massage table. Advertisement While the resort has various accommodation options, including villas and apartments, we were staying in the main hotel. Our room was spacious and beautifully presented, with a luxurious, oversized bathroom that felt like a private spa. If you're a foodie — and who isn't on holiday — Pine Cliffs will spoil you rotten A highlight was the charming terrace, perfect for relaxing while taking in the fresh Algarve air. If you're a foodie — and who isn't on holiday — Pine Cliffs will spoil you rotten. Every meal we had was memorable and flawless. Advertisement 7 Maré at Pine Cliffs Beach Club is foodie heaven Credit: Supplied 7 Dine then recline on the Maré's upper deck Credit: Supplied 7 The Sun's Noa Hoffman and Jonah on a romantic break Credit: Supplied 7 Headliner Ronan Keating From fresh octopus by the beach to grilled lobster on the cliff top under the stars, each dish was crafted with care. But the highlight? Advertisement The Wagyu steak at the Piri Piri Steak House was hands down the best we've ever tasted. Melt-in-the-mouth perfection. Pristine golf course Our waiter Paolo was so knowledgeable and made the entire meal an experience. The resort has 15 top-tier restaurants and bars, from the elegant O Pescador, serving seafood with ocean views, to Zest, where we grabbed healthy poke bowls and salads for lunch. And for a romantic lunch, Maré at Pine Cliffs Beach Club offered the perfect seaside setting with fresh grilled fish and chilled vinho verde. Jonah, an avid golfer, was in his element on Pine Cliffs' spectacular nine-hole golf course, perched on the cliff edge with jaw-dropping views over the Atlantic. Advertisement He played twice during our stay and raved about the challenging layout and pristine condition. We also both enjoyed a one-hour padel-tennis lesson with ace coach Joao. Burning off some of the incredible meals, while having such fun, was great. We're now completely hooked on the sport. The staff couldn't have been more welcoming, and the service was impeccable There are also tennis courts, a gym with spectacular sea views, and even a kids' club if you're travelling as a family. The resort's eight swimming pools are another highlight. From an adults-only oasis in the Serenity spa to a large family lagoon-style option, there is a pool to suit every taste. Advertisement We particularly enjoyed the one by Corda Café at the heart of the resort — perhaps due to its swim-up cocktail bar! Pine Cliffs manages to blend luxury with a warm, relaxed atmosphere. The staff couldn't have been more welcoming, and the service was impeccable. Whether you're after a romantic escape, an active break, or a place to unwind in set in stunning natural surroundings, Pine Cliffs ticks every box — and then some. We came for Ronan . . . but stayed for the sun, sea, steak and serenity. Once you've experienced Pine Cliffs, you'll be planning your next visit before you've even left. Advertisement

Inside the huge Portuguese hotel that's its own holiday destination – with pop star shows and swim-up cocktail bars
Inside the huge Portuguese hotel that's its own holiday destination – with pop star shows and swim-up cocktail bars

The Sun

timea day ago

  • Entertainment
  • The Sun

Inside the huge Portuguese hotel that's its own holiday destination – with pop star shows and swim-up cocktail bars

YOU don't often get to sip a cocktail on a clifftop, under an orange sunset, while Ronan Keating prepares to perform for you. But it turns out that's exactly what you can expect at the Pine Cliffs Resort on the sun-kissed Algarve. 7 7 7 Set among fragrant pine trees and perched high above the golden sands of Portugal's most stunning coastline, Pine Cliffs isn't just a resort, it's a destination. Think postcard-perfect beaches, a backdrop of red-ochre cliffs and five-star facilities that make you feel like A-listers. Our trip coincided with Pine Cliffs' annual Summer Gala, the resort's most glamorous event of the year. And it truly delivered on every front. The evening began with a glitzy cocktail reception on the manicured green of the driving range, as the golden Algarve sun dipped behind the cliffs. A saxophonist filled the air with smooth jazz while guests mingled over glasses of fizz. Taking our seats at tables with pearly white linen for an extravagant three-course buffet, we were serenaded by various singers. Then came the show-stopping moment: Ronan Keating took to the stage. The former Boyzone member's voice, as smooth as the champagne, had the crowd singing, swaying and swooning. To top the night off, when Ronan finished his last song, fireworks burst into the summer sky, lighting it up. We couldn't have asked for a more magical night. But the gala was just the cherry on top of what turned out to be one of the most relaxing getaways we've ever had. Martin Lewis warns about strict passport rule that could see you board your flight - only to get sent home on arrival Pine Cliffs is a haven for both adrenaline junkies and sun-worshippers. The resort also seems as able to cater for family fun as it can for couples on romantic getaways. While I happily spent hours lounging on Falesia beach, sunbathing with a book, my partner Jonah threw himself into the water sports. He loved paddle-boarding along the clear, calm shoreline. I won't lie — it was more wobbly than graceful, but he laughed the whole way through. The resort also offers kayaking, jet skis and couch/banana boat rides. For those in search of next-level pampering, the Serenity Spa at Pine Cliffs is unmissable. I indulged in the 80-minute Senses Of The Algarve body scrub, a heavenly experience blending local carob and soothing oils. The therapists here are miracle workers, and I floated out of the spa feeling like I'd left all my stress on the massage table. While the resort has various accommodation options, including villas and apartments, we were staying in the main hotel. Our room was spacious and beautifully presented, with a luxurious, oversized bathroom that felt like a private spa. A highlight was the charming terrace, perfect for relaxing while taking in the fresh Algarve air. If you're a foodie — and who isn't on holiday — Pine Cliffs will spoil you rotten. Every meal we had was memorable and flawless. 7 7 7 From fresh octopus by the beach to grilled lobster on the cliff top under the stars, each dish was crafted with care. But the highlight? The Wagyu steak at the Piri Piri Steak House was hands down the best we've ever tasted. Melt-in-the-mouth perfection. Pristine golf course Our waiter Paolo was so knowledgeable and made the entire meal an experience. The resort has 15 top-tier restaurants and bars, from the elegant O Pescador, serving seafood with ocean views, to Zest, where we grabbed healthy poke bowls and salads for lunch. And for a romantic lunch, Maré at Pine Cliffs Beach Club offered the perfect seaside setting with fresh grilled fish and chilled vinho verde. Jonah, an avid golfer, was in his element on Pine Cliffs' spectacular nine-hole golf course, perched on the cliff edge with jaw-dropping views over the Atlantic. He played twice during our stay and raved about the challenging layout and pristine condition. We also both enjoyed a one-hour padel- tennis lesson with ace coach Joao. Burning off some of the incredible meals, while having such fun, was great. We're now completely hooked on the sport. There are also tennis courts, a gym with spectacular sea views, and even a kids' club if you're travelling as a family. The resort's eight swimming pools are another highlight. From an adults-only oasis in the Serenity spa to a large family lagoon-style option, there is a pool to suit every taste. We particularly enjoyed the one by Corda Café at the heart of the resort — perhaps due to its swim-up cocktail bar! Pine Cliffs manages to blend luxury with a warm, relaxed atmosphere. The staff couldn't have been more welcoming, and the service was impeccable. Whether you're after a romantic escape, an active break, or a place to unwind in set in stunning natural surroundings, Pine Cliffs ticks every box — and then some. We came for Ronan . . . but stayed for the sun, sea, steak and serenity. Once you've experienced Pine Cliffs, you'll be planning your next visit before you've even left.

16 Best Beach Towns to Visit in Portugal, According to Locals
16 Best Beach Towns to Visit in Portugal, According to Locals

Travel + Leisure

time29-07-2025

  • Travel + Leisure

16 Best Beach Towns to Visit in Portugal, According to Locals

"Portugal's coastline is a journey of timeless beauty and soulful discovery. Each town along the shore tells a story, not just through its landscapes, but through its traditions, its people, and the distinct rhythm of life that defines it." Helder Martins, the general manager of Pine Cliffs Resort in the Algarve, is certainly correct. Four years ago, I packed up my life in Los Angeles and relocated to Portugal to pursue my Ph.D. I didn't know how long I'd stay, but the very first weekend I moved, my husband and I made our way to the coast to take a dip in the ocean and relax after a long flight. One peek at the towering cliffs, one touch of the warm sand, and one afternoon staring far into the horizon, I knew that this was home forever. From north to south, Portugal's coastline is a patchwork of picture-perfect fishing villages, surf towns, and sun-soaked beach enclaves, each with its own rhythm and charm. Some are quite cosmopolitan; others are distinctly old-world. "What makes these towns special is not just their beauty; it is their soul," Martins added. "They offer not just a destination, but a lasting memory." Ready to dive in and make memories all your own? Here are some of the top coastal towns in Portugal, according to locals. A popular beach in Cascais, Portugal. lisandrotrarbach/Adobe Stock "Having grown up in Cascais, it naturally holds a deep emotional resonance for me," Duarte Gonçalves Cunha, the general manager of Octant Praia Verde, shared. "It is where I formed my earliest memories of the sea, and where my enduring relationship with the Portuguese coast began." Cascais, about a 30-minute drive from Lisbon, offers the ideal blend of sea breezes and a hint of city life. The golden beaches are lined with seafood restaurants you'll want to visit again and again. "Cascais is an elegant coastal town with a cosmopolitan rhythm and a rich maritime legacy," Cunha added. "Its proximity to Lisbon makes it vibrant and accessible, yet its natural beauty offers a constant sense of escape." "Cascais for surfing is great. Close to both south and west-facing beaches, so you can surf just about every day," Lucas Adee, a surfboard shaper who lives in town and whose boards are ideal for the waves here, added. "When it's small, head out to Guincho or venture just north to the beaches of Sintra. And when it's big, you can surf all the waves from Cascais to Lisbon. The best part is that most, if not all, are along the train stops." After a surf, stay a few nights in the Pestana Cidadela Cascais, an art hotel surrounded by galleries and studios that are sure to inspire. Traditional Portuguese white and blue houses in to paddle out with some of Portugal's coolest surfers? Then Ericeira is the town for you. "Ericeira is such a cool little town," Lorena Carrillo Perez, Lisbon tour manager for Walks and Devour Tours, said. "It's known as the surf capital of Portugal, and you can feel that energy everywhere. Even if you're not a surfer, it's a great place to hang out, eat well, and watch the waves." The town is more than just great waves. It's also home to cobblestone streets and tiled façades, with plenty of adorable shops and cafes to pop in and out of all day long. Expect cold beers, delicious seafood, endless waves, and a great crowd. Travelers can also find an upscale stay at Immerso, a wellness-focused hotel where there's no shortage of views and yoga classes to try. Colorful umbrellas on a Sagres beach. Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure Sagres, located on the southern tip of the Algarve, is another outdoor lovers' heaven. "Sagres is a mecca for surfers, hikers, and those seeking an unspoiled, laid-back vibe," Chitra Stern, the CEO of Martinhal, shared. "Home to some stunning beaches, including family-favorite Martinhal Beach." The town is unfussy, with a "welcoming, low-key ambience," Stern added. "Check out Three Little Birds for craft beers and burgers or The Laundry Lounge, which offers yoga classes on the terrace, and a chance to catch up on your clothes washing whilst enjoying fresh, seasonal dishes and creative cocktails." Naturally, the Martinhal Sagres makes for the perfect home base while you're here. White buildings along the coast in Burgau, Portugal. About 30 minutes east of Sagres, travelers can find even more peace and solitude in the quiet coastal village of Burgau. According to Stern, it's "a picturesque fishing village with cobbled lanes and whitewashed houses offering a lovely blend of authenticity and low-key tourism." Pop in for a pizza and sunset views at Corso, which sits high above the beach, for a fantastic end to your day. The town is very small, so hotels are lacking, but there's no shortage of excellent short-term rentals, including this lovely one-bedroom condo with breathtaking ocean views. Walking path to Bordeira beach in Carrapateira, those craving wild terrain, Carrapateira delivers. This, Stern says, is a "laid-back bohemian surf village surrounded by vast dunes and cliffs." There isn't much going on here, and that's really the point. You can surf Praia do Amado, one of Portugal's most celebrated beaches, and you'll undoubtedly find plenty of space for your blanket and umbrella on the expansive Praia da Bordeira. Just make sure to put away your phone and pull out a good book, because this place is tailor-made for unplugging. Speaking of relaxing, for those who plan to stay overnight, there's nowhere better suited than Hortas do Rio, a chic boutique stay with plenty of private nooks for a quiet moment. A crowded Odeceixe beach. studiof22byricardorocha/Getty Images Located along the northern edge of the Algarve is the village of Odeceixe, "one of Portugal's most picturesque towns, perched above a winding river valley," according to Stern. It's another spot with the ideal mix of expansive beach access paired with an adorable town filled with shops and restaurants. Stern recommended Altinho Restaurant for vegetarian-friendly dishes and sunset views or Agapito for casual, wood-fired pizza. However, I'd be remiss not to mention one of my personal favorites in the region, Näperoñ, a restaurant recognized by the Michelin guide that offers seven and nine-course tasting menus that will leave you begging for more. The best part? You can also stay the night at the attached Casas do Moinho, which is equally as exciting as the food. Charming architecture of Tavira with boats on Gilao River. Jacek_Sopotnicki/Getty Images "Tavira is a historic fishing village on the edge of the Ria Formosa, where many fishermen still live and work," Emma Campus, co-owner of Austa, located in nearby Fuseta, shared. The town, located just a few miles from the Spanish border, is also jam-packed with winding cobblestone streets and gorgeous tiled homes, along with plenty of spots to enjoy a bike ride. According to Campus, travelers should start their day at Xisto, a sleek new bakery in town, walk, grab lunch, and then head for the islands. "After a streetside lunch at Casa Corvo next to the fish market, we catch a small boat past the oyster beds to the islands, where empty sandbanks stretch for miles," she says. And don't miss out on happy hour. "No trip here is complete without a stop for local craft beer at Nano Brewery or some beautiful Portuguese natural wines at Wild Thing in Cabanas." Then, spend the night at Vila Galé, located in the center of town, for easy access to everything. Dusk over Olhao, down the block, travelers can explore another coastal town, Olhão, which should be in its own time zone, as here, everyone lives at their own pace. Although there's one time you can expect to see everyone gathered together, and that's on Saturday mornings for the weekly market, Joy Jung from Vila Joya shared. Here, you can find vintage clothing, plenty of local produce, fresh fish, and more second-hand home goods that you can dream of. While the market is a must, Jung noted that it's "lovely to scroll around town when the sun goes down." She added that if you're lucky, you can snag a rooftop terrace seat somewhere as it's "heaven on Earth watching the tide and the boats coming in and going out, listening to the sounds of the seagulls." Stay at Real Marina, which has its chaise loungers set up facing the ocean so you can so you can get that view and more. A couple walking down the street in Aljezur, Portugal. EunikaSopotnicka/Getty Images Find a little more barefoot luxury in Aljezur, a hip town packed with surfers, expats, and locals alike. "We head to Aljezur when we want to escape and revive our energy after long weeks working at the restaurant," David Campus, co-owner of Austa, added. It's a hub for agriculture (including some of the best sweet potatoes I've had, and it's also close to several excellent beaches for surfing. "We'll meet local surfer and natural winemaker Filipo of Atlas Land for a tasting of his recent harvest," David said, "before tucking into dinner at Eira do Mel or Pisco in nearby Vila do Bispo." Need a fantastic coffee? Head right over to Koyo Specialty Coffee, where you'll not only find a great cup but also all the coolest locals in town hanging out on the back patio. Book a night here at Monte do Sol, a rural retreat that will help you connect to the area's landscapes on a deeper level. Colorful buildings in Setubal, Portugal. Just a 45-minute drive from Lisbon, Setúbal is a great spot for seafood lovers. Gail Curley, co-owner of Palacio Príncipe Real, shared, "Setúbal is a working fishing port famed—amongst other things—for its oysters." Mercado do Livramento is the star of the show here, where you can watch fishermen haul in the catch of the day and pick up a few things to bring home to cook with you. But that's not all. Curley noted the coastline of Arrábida Natural Park is only a 15-minute boat ride away, so go ahead and rent a boat—the water here is gin-clear, making it ideal for a summer or early fall swim. You may even get lucky and spot a few of the resident dolphins swimming offshore. Then, check into the Casa Palmela, an 18th-century house-turned-luxury hotel, for the perfect getaway. Surfboards next to a straw parasol in Comporta. Often referred to as the "Hamptons of Lisbon," Comporta is known for high-end living. "Comporta is all about understated luxury," Cunha said. "It is where simplicity is elevated to an art form—endless rice fields, thatched cabanas, and a bohemian atmosphere." Ashley Les, a luxury travel advisor at Global Travel Collection, added that Comporta is also home to "amazing shopping and restaurants, plus one of the longest stretches of beach in Europe." Check into spots like the Sublime and Quinta da Comporta to round out the top-of-the-line experience. Aerial view of Zambujeira do Mar on a cliff. Remember that little town I went to for my first weekend? It's here. Zambujeira do Mar delivers natural drama, tranquil peace, and a community of the kindest people, not just in Portugal, but anywhere on Earth, in my humble opinion. Check into Craveiral Farmhouse, a fantastic hotel that has a working garden, a delicious restaurant, and even a few horses. Want something all to yourself? You can always check into my house, Nowhere, which sits just up the road, amid old-growth cork and pine trees, just a short bike ride from the beach. Roman ruins in Vila do Conde. Guido Cozzi/The south doesn't hold a monopoly on great coastal towns. Just north of Porto, Vila do Conde is the perfect mix of history and culture that most visitors seek on a trip to Portugal. "It offers a captivating blend of maritime heritage, architectural grandeur, and serene beaches," Danilo Cerqueira, the founder of TempoVIP, explained. Don't miss the Aqueduto de Santa Clara for a look into the area's history. "The town's rich shipbuilding legacy is showcased at the Alfândega Régia," Cerqueira said, "complemented by the Nau Quinhentista, a full-scale replica of a 16th-century Portuguese carrack." Colorfully striped houses in Aveiro, Portugal. Nicknamed the "Venice of Portugal," Aveiro is a river town that is like a postcard come to life. "The city is famous for its colorful moliceiro boats, which glide through the city's picturesque canals," Cerqueira said. "It's a city of Art Nouveau architecture, salt pans, and marshland beauty." While in town, make certain you have time for ovos moles , the sweet egg-and-sugar treats wrapped in wafer-thin shells that are famous here. Have a stay fit for royalty by checking into the Turin Aveiro Palace Hotel, located right on the water's edge. A large wave breaks in Nazare, Portugal. Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure Nazaré, Cerqueira said, is "world-renowned for its record-breaking waves, which attract professional surfers from around the globe." Those waves are thanks to the Nazaré Canyon, an underwater geological wonder that pushes the water up to 100 feet high before crashing to shore. But, like the others here, there's more than just the watery view. It's also "known for its traditional culture, including women wearing seven skirts and vibrant folklore festivals," Cerqueira explained, making it an all-seasons town worth visiting even when the waves are flat. Stay close to the action by booking a room at Miramar Hotels, which offers the best ocean views in town. Dusk over a rocky beach in Matosinhos. Paula Galindo Valle/Travel + Leisure Matosinhos is Porto's salty little sibling just up the road, where the locals go for fish and surfing. "It's a great expat town," local Cynthia Matthews von Berg, who also runs Sharing the Wander, said. "We are on the coast with metro access to downtown Porto." Rua Herois de França is the ideal street to walk down as it's packed with restaurants grilling fish right outside. "Tell them what you want, they'll show you the fish itself, and then grill it up for you," she said. The town also has a long, winding boardwalk from the visitor's center down to the Anémona sculpture that's worthy of a stroll. "All along that boardwalk, you'll find a very deep sand beach, and lots of surf schools. Matosinhos has small waves, so it's a great beach for beginners," she pointed out. Find a cozy spot to stay at the Ocean Porto Beach House right in the center of town.

Five tennis-themed holidays across Europe in time for Wimbledon from UK countryside clubs to Greek coastal resorts
Five tennis-themed holidays across Europe in time for Wimbledon from UK countryside clubs to Greek coastal resorts

Scottish Sun

time16-06-2025

  • Entertainment
  • Scottish Sun

Five tennis-themed holidays across Europe in time for Wimbledon from UK countryside clubs to Greek coastal resorts

You can even brush up on your skills alongside former world number eight Marcos Baghdatis NEW HOLS PLEASE Five tennis-themed holidays across Europe in time for Wimbledon from UK countryside clubs to Greek coastal resorts Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TENNIS season is upon us and Wimbledon begins in less than two weeks' time. But why leave all the fun to the pros? Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 The Pine Cliffs Resort in Portugal features programmes designed by former British No 1 Annabel Croft Credit: Supplied These tennis-themed holidays will get you volleying like Alcaraz and serving like Raducanu in no time. Sophie Swietochowski shares her five top picks for keen tennis players. 1. Puente Romano MARBELLA, SPAIN YOU won't need to worry about tiring yourself out on the tennis courts at Puente Romano Marbella, as this resort's excellent selection of restaurants will keep you very well fuelled. Set on the city's Golden Mile, the plush hotel houses famous Japanese spot Nobu and a sophisticated Peruvian joint as well as a whopping 18 other restaurants. 6 Puente Romano Marbella is great for foodies as well as tennis fans Credit: Supplied Its well-known tennis club, which opened in 1979, has welcomed a whole host of sporting heroes through its doors, including Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic and Boris Becker. And that's no surprise when you consider the range of facilities here. There are ten tennis courts (eight clay and two plexipave) plus four padel courts, as well as massage rooms, a sauna and Turkish bath to soothe any aching muscles. All of this does come with a pretty hefty price tag, though. GO: Private tennis coaching costs from €80 per hour. Four nights' B&B costs from £1,167pp including flights from Gatwick on October 31. See Emma Raducanu reveals she keeps being BANNED from Italian Open grounds and was exposed by 2. Foxhills CHERTSEY, SURREY ANYONE wanting to stay a little closer to home should look no further than Foxhills Hotel & Country Club which is tucked away in 400 rolling acres of Surrey countryside. However, it is still close enough to the capital if you want to get in on the Wimbledon action for real. 6 Foxhills Hotel & Country Club is tucked away in 400 rolling acres of Surrey countryside Credit: Supplied The resort features nine tennis courts in total (four acrylic, four artificial clay and one all-weather), plus you can try your hand at the increasingly popular racket sport of padel on one of three courts, or even pickleball – another fun racket pastime. Little ones aspiring to make it into the big leagues should head down to the hotel on June 28 to see the juniors competing in the Road To Wimbledon tournament. Tired of all the tennis? Stretch your limbs in the on-site yoga cabin, kick back in the luxurious spa or grab a tipple on the terrace, overlooking the golfing green. GO: A double room costs from £355, based on two sharing on June 29. See or call 01932 872 050. 3. Pine Cliffs Resort ALGARVE, PORTUGAL WHETHER you're a total beginner or a seriously experienced player, Pine Cliffs has a training programme to suit all skill levels. Set on the coast in Portugal's Algarve region, the 5* resort isn't just a fly-and-flop spot – although there are plenty of sunloungers and ample balcony space for those who do want some chill time. 6 Pine Cliffs has a training programme to suit all skill levels Credit: Supplied It's also home to an excellent Tennis Academy, with programmes that have been designed by former British No 1 Annabel Croft. There are eight floodlit courts: two clay and two hard tennis courts as well as four for padel. Guests can book on to group sessions or weekend tennis camps, while those taking their favourite sport a little more seriously can sign up for some private coaching to improve their game. GO : Adult Tennis or padel weekly coaching courses start from £300 per adult and £265 per child in off-peak season (Nov to March) and £326 per adult and £291 per child in peak season (April to Oct). : Adult Tennis or padel weekly coaching courses start from £300 per adult and £265 per child in off-peak season (Nov to March) and £326 per adult and £291 per child in peak season (April to Oct). Seven nights' B&B is from £1183.20pp including flights from Luton and transfers on September 30. See 4. Grecotel Luxme Daphnila Bay Hotel CORFU, GREECE UP for a bit of friendly competition? If you're travelling solo, you'll love this tennis-themed package at the 4* Grecotel Luxme Daphnila Bay Hotel on Corfu's eastern coast. 6 The 4* Grecotel Luxme Daphnila Bay Hotel is great for solo travellers Credit: Facebook Week-long packages booked through travel agent Solos Holidays come with five days of tennis camp and no single supplement, meaning each guest gets a room to themselves. Anyone keen to put their new skills to the test can get stuck into the weekly mixed-doubles finale with prizes. Just try not to get distracted by the jaw-dropping views from the quartz-sand hard courts – the Ionian Sea looks dazzling from up there. When you're not unleashing a mean serve, there are watersports galore, or mountain biking in the surrounding hills. GO : A seven-night, all-inclusive Corfu Tennis trip costs £1,995pp including flights and transfers from the UK on October 6, as well as a welcome drink, a five-day tennis programme and an experienced Solos Tour Leader. : A seven-night, all-inclusive Corfu Tennis trip costs £1,995pp including flights and transfers from the UK on October 6, as well as a welcome drink, a five-day tennis programme and an experienced Solos Tour Leader. Call 020 8951 2900 or see 5. City Of Dreams Mediterranean LIMASSOL, CYPRUS WITH a Serve & Stay package at the City of Dreams Mediterranean, you'll be able to hone your skills and improve on your weaknesses under the eagle eye of skilled coaches. Each stay includes several days of training at the Marcos Baghdatis Tennis Academy, all of which is overseen by the former world number eight himself. 6 The Serve & Stay package at the City of Dreams Mediterranean is great for honing your skills Credit: Melco Resorts Participants will receive personalised consultations and tailor-made programmes. Outside of training, you're free to unwind in five-star luxury in the city of Limassol. Music fans are in luck as the hotel puts on live performances in the evenings, while the days can be spent learning to surf on the resort's Waverider simulator. Or guests can just take a cooling dip in one of three outdoor swimming pools. GO : A four-night Serve & Stay getaway costs €1,565pp (£1,330) on selected days in September and October and on a half-board basis. : A four-night Serve & Stay getaway costs €1,565pp (£1,330) on selected days in September and October and on a half-board basis. The package includes three days of tennis training, unlimited soft drinks, water and coffee during dinner. See Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club.

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