Alpinus Hotel

There's certainly little to get excited about upon arrival at the nondescript, concrete building of the Luna Alpinus. Stepping inside, the lobby is similarly uninspiring, featuring a stout central column surrounded by various tropical plants, floral patterned wallpaper, and brown leather seating. A trio of elevators services the property's five floors, which are spread across three interconnected blocks that can feel a bit maze-like. Although not a great deal in the way of gardens, the north pool is surrounded by numerous pine trees, and more dot the property. A swimming pool at each end of the hotel includes a lively one that's popular with families and kids, with the other provides a more peaceful atmosphere for older couples.

The hotel is located in the sleepy, leafy, and largely upmarket residential area of Acoteias, about halfway between the busy Algarve resort towns of Vilamoura and Albufeira. There are a handful of bars and several good restaurants within easy walking distance, plus a few local shops and two supermarkets. The Pine Cliffs Golf Course is also just a five-minute walk from the hotel. The long stretch of picturesque cliff-backed beach (Praia da Falesia) is around 15 minutes away on foot. The walk, however, can be strenuous but the hotel runs a free shuttle to the beach as well as to the center of Albufeira, which is around a 15-minute drive. Faro Airport is around a 30- to 40-minute drive, depending on traffic.

The complex has 185 studios and one- and two-bedrooms apartments, all of which are simply decorated with terra-cotta tile floors, modern (albeit plain) wood and tan furnishings, and white walls adorned with colorful artworks. Decor consists of neutral-tone colors plus various shades of blue that reflect the coastal setting. One- and two-bedroom units include separate open-plan living rooms and lounge areas with flat-screen TVs (with one English-speaking channel) and kitchenettes with electric hobs, ovens, mini-fridges, and a range of cookware. Studios integrate sleeping and living areas, with semi-divided kitchen spaces. Glass doors slide open to spacious furnished balconies or terraces, many with views over pine trees, the neighboring golf course, or surrounding countryside (though some overlook the road or car park and there are no sea views). Bathrooms are well-maintained, equipped with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and basic toiletries. Wi-Fi is free.

The hotel's main eatery is a buffet restaurant that's open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and largely caters to those on an all-inclusive plan. Food is a mixture of Portuguese cooking and international favorites, though quality receives mixed reviews and the restaurant can fill up at peak times. There is also a coffee shop serving drinks and snacks as well as a poolside bar, both with terrace seating.   

The hotel offers two swimming pools; the North Pool caters primarily to families with children by offering activities and entertainment, while the Rising Pool is a more peaceful and quiet option for those wishing to relax. Children also have a splash pool and kids' club. The hotel puts on evening entertainment in the form of live music, dance competitions, and karaoke. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. Other amenities include a free shuttle service to Albufeira and to Falesia Beach several times a day, as well as a game room with ping-pong, a pool table, and several arcade games.