We had 3 nights at Penina after a week in Vilamoura. We arrived at 1.30pm and were able to check in and use the facilities straightaway. We had a mountain facing room which was fine for a short stay. The buffet restaurant was disappointing - the Mexican food was very bland. The Italian restaurant wasn’t much better, the scallops hadn’t been seared, neither had the skin on the sea bass. The Grill restaurant was much better, with excellent service and significantly better food. The food at the Henry Cotton restaurant was good but overpriced for what was provided.
Disappointingly the beach club was not open - on the website says open April to October, but clearly this is variable!
The golf service is very efficient. We only played the resort course, but had no problems playing when we wanted.
Although check out is by midday, we were able to play golf and use the facilities in the locker room afterwards, so we didn’t leave until 4.30 pm.
Generally a comfortable hotel although a little dated. It was quite windy whilst we were there, so an indoor pool would be nice.