Digital Detox @ Algarve
Going offline, not being permanently available for once and giving in to the constant impulse to check emails, WhatsApp messages and Facebook news every few minutes: Digital detox programs are all the rage right now and are offered in many spas.
This is also the case at the brand new Pine Cliffs Serenity Spa. Nestled in fragrant pine forests and extensive gardens, the Pine Cliffs Resort is perched on bright red sandstone cliffs on Praia da Falésia, one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the Algarve. They offer a view of the miles of golden sandy beach and the wild waves of the sea.
I check into one of the brand new and deadly chic Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites - butler included. To prevent me from being tempted to reach for my cell phone during my digital withdrawal, it is quickly put into a small "sleeping bag" and locked away for two nights - any attempt at bribery is futile! A coherent program of activity and relaxation, garnished with healthy food, makes this "separation phase" as "painless as possible": in the trendy restaurant Zest, the culinary heaven for vegetarians and soul foodies, my body detox becomes a pure pleasure with fresh smoothies and healthy snacks.
Over the next few days, I explore the idyllic landscape of the Algarve on a guided bike tour. As a golf novice, I also try my hand at a coaching lesson on the 9-hole golf course with its famous signature hole "Devil's Parlour" (par 3), beautifully situated on the cliffs. Afterwards, you can work up a sweat with a tailor-made workout with a personal trainer by the sea. Even the walk to the beach - down the glass panoramic lift and over wooden walkways past the magnificent natural sandstone cliffs - is a unique experience.
Cool off promptly with a paddle board session. The next morning, in addition to an intensive workout in the health club, a Pilates session and breathing meditations are on the program - perfect for finding and feeling your own center again. In the Serenity Spa with its Zen flair, the ultimate body & soul balance awaits me with wellness in the Thermal Oasis and a relaxing massage with regional products such as fleur de sel, wonderfully fragrant orange blossom oil and carob.
Conclusion: Do I miss my better half called iPhone? YES! And yet: disconnecting for a few days to reconnect with your own self makes sense and is fun at the same time at Pine Cliffs!
More info about the luxury hotel: www.pinecliffs.com
