Pinhal do Sol Hotel

For travelers who plan on doing and seeing little, or for those who want to save money by commuting to the beaches and towns of the Algarve, the Pinhal do Sol might fit the bill. It's a pleasant place, to be sure, though expectations need to be managed a bit. The lobby is open and bright, but dated, with several rattan sofas and chairs for seating. Bright green valances and yellow window trim add color to the otherwise beige space. A flat-screen TV keeps guests up-to-date on the latest news, sports, and weather, and a computer is available for guests to use for a fee. Hallways to guest rooms have large windows providing natural light and views of the the well-maintained lawn, which is dotted with mature trees. The place is most popular with couples, but all sorts of travelers stay here to take advantage of the low rates. However, families may find that there's not much for the kids to do.

This hotel is situated in a quiet, isolated location between Vilamoura and Vale do Lobo. There's practically nothing right around the hotel, and a rental car is almost a must for staying here. Guests can get to Vilamoura in about 15 minutes by car and to Quarteira in about 10 minutes. The Oceanico Pinhal golf course is a 10-minute drive from the property, and there are multiple other golf courses in the area as well. The Aquashow water park is a three-minute drive, for those traveling with kids. Faro Airport is about 20 minutes away by car. It's a two-and-a-half hour drive to the airport in Lisbon.

Rooms are spacious, but dated, with old patterned bedspreads, tiled floors, earth-tone color schemes, and striped drapery. There's little in the way of decoration on the white walls, which only exacerbates the tired look. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, and safes. Upgraded rooms add sofas, mini-fridges, and tea/coffee makers. Unfortunately, there is no Wi-Fi in rooms. Guests in Romantic Rooms are greeted with rose petals on the bed, plus chocolates and a bottle of bubbly. Bathrooms are tiled and have showers or tubs, pedestal sinks, and bidets. They come with hairdryers and toiletries, though there was little in the way of counter space in the room that we visited. All rooms have a terrace or balcony that's furnished with a small table and chairs. Views are of the countryside. 

This hotel doesn't have much in the way of features, which is a little problematic given its isolated location. Meals are served in a casual restaurant, and guests can dine inside or out on the terrace shaded by palm trees. All-inclusive rates are available, but there are some limitations -- complaints range from early cut-off times to the range of beverages included. The bar has indoor seating with flat-screen TVs plus pool and foosball tables for entertainment, or guests can sit outside by the pool. Live entertainment performs in the bar some nights. The outdoor pool is suitable for swimming laps, and lounge chairs and straw umbrellas line the deck. Additional lounge chairs are available on the grassy lawn, and there's a small outdoor playground for the littlest ones. Bike rentals are available on-site, and there's a tennis court, although it has seen better days. Wi-Fi is only free and available in the lobby, which is often crammed with other guests trying to get the signal. The hotel does run a free shuttle to the nearby towns and the beach.