Vilamoura

Aerial view of the town of Vilamoura, Marina, hotels and the beach
Vilamoura is according to many, the best tourist destination in Portugal and even Europe. It is a luxury destination, associated with a sophisticated lifestyle, but at the same time relaxing. About 30 minutes from Faro International Airport, Vilamoura meets all conditions as a great holiday destination, or for the more fortunate, as the site for housing.

Arthur Cupertino de Miranda, the founder of Vilamoura

Vilamoura was founded by Arthur Cupertino de Miranda in the decade of 60, when this man acquired the land of 1600 hectares, known as “Quinta de Quarteira” and turned it in the tourist resort now known as Vilamoura.

Contrary to most tourist destinations in the Algarve, Vilamoura has a recent history since it was purposely architected to satisfy all those who like to enjoy the natural beauty, a relaxed atmosphere, but without neglecting the dynamism and good taste.

Vilamoura Marina • A Premier Nautical Destination with World-Class Facilities and 825 Berths
Celebrating half a century, the Marina stands as the signature landmark of Vilamoura and is a revered destination for water sports enthusiasts.

Blessed with a favorable climate, the Marina of Vilamoura presents a plethora of water activities to engage in. These range from water skiing and sailing, to windsurfing, scuba diving, and jet-skiing. Additionally, it offers exploratory tours along the scenic Algarve coast, making it a complete water-based adventure hub.

Condor de Vilamoura, sailing ship best known for the tours of the coastline of the Algarve
The Condor de Vilamoura is a distinct and iconic sight in Vilamoura’s Marina. This two-masted sailboat, stretching 34 metres in length, can accommodate up to 120 people, offering them an unforgettable journey along the beautiful Algarve coastline. Resembling a 19th-century American fishing schooner, this replica sailboat is typically anchored at Vilamoura’s Marina, ready to embark on its next adventure.

Beyond the allure of water sports, Vilamoura’s Marina attracts many sport fishing enthusiasts to its high seas. Proven by past experiences, it’s an excellent area for this sport, with fish weighing several hundred pounds frequently caught, adding to the thrill of the chase.

Vilamoura Sailing
The captivating image vividly portrays the February Carnival Regatta at Vilamoura Marina, a time teeming with water sports enthusiasts. The focal point is a lively regatta, where young sailors expertly navigate sailboats across the glistening blue sea, their sails strikingly white against the clear sky. This spectacle is not just a race, but a testament to sailing prowess, teamwork, and a shared passion for maritime adventure. With Vilamoura’s picturesque coastline as the stunning backdrop, this scene underscores the Marina’s appeal for those seeking thrilling aquatic experiences during the vibrant Carnival season.

Vilamoura Equestrian Center
Vilamoura, a haven for sports enthusiasts, is a sought-after destination year-round, attracting a wide range of athletes from equestrians, golfers, sailors, tennis and paddle tennis players, to football players. Its unique allure is especially prominent in winter.

Year-Round Outdoor Living in Sunny Southern Portugal
While much of Europe is held captive by the freezing cold, Southern Portugal, with its exceptional weather, serves as a warm oasis offering excellent conditions for outdoor living. This tranquil and comfortable climate makes Vilamoura a preferred spot for those eager to maintain an active lifestyle throughout the year, solidifying its reputation as a sportsman’s paradise in every sense.

Over-water terraces of restaurants and bars in Vilamoura Marina
Vilamoura’s gastronomy offers a vibrant slice of the Algarve region, boosting the area’s appeal. Seafood is a major feature in traditional dishes, including fish, shellfish, and octopus, found in everything from seafood casseroles to unique rice preparations.

The multitude of excellent restaurants in Vilamoura offers these culinary delights. Each one exemplifies refinement and exceptional service. Furthermore, Vilamoura boasts a diverse culinary scene. Alongside traditional Portuguese preparations of freshly caught Atlantic fish, you’ll discover a world of flavors.

The town hosts an array of themed restaurants. From Italian, French, Mexican, Indian, Thai, to Japanese cuisines, there’s something for every palate. In addition, you’ll find typically English pubs and inviting snack bars dotting the landscape.

Most of these dining options are concentrated in Vilamoura’s town center. Many of them feature charming terraces, making the area a paradise for food lovers. This rich gastronomic culture certainly enhances Vilamoura’s value as a premier destination.

Vilamoura luxury lifestyle living
Vilamoura Marina is the most awarded in Europe, schools are recognized for quality, golf offer is varied, the cycling network is extensive. If all this still handled well join the green areas, the Casino, the huge variety of restaurants, bars and clubs, public and private sports complex then can be no doubt that Vilamoura is without doubt one of the most exclusive areas to have into account in the Algarve.

The Marina of Vilamoura is a sought-after destination at night, especially during the warmer months. The bustling eateries, ice cream parlors, and cozy terraces create an inviting atmosphere perfect for unwinding. This vibrant spot, buzzing with energy yet maintaining a relaxed charm, is ideal for leisurely family strolls post-meal.

Vilamoura Marina lights and reflections
Tranquil evening atmosphere at summer Vilamoura Marina, a calm picture as yachts on the placid waters, a beautiful reflection that mirrors the vibrant scene illuminated by the inviting glow from ice cream parlors, stores, pubs, and restaurants.

Veneza, the oldest and most famous ice cream parlor in Vilamoura
Enjoying a stroll through Vilamoura Marina while savoring a traditional ice cream has been a beloved tradition for over 50 years. Both locals and tourists visiting Vilamoura partake in this simple yet delightful pastime. With every lick of ice cream, they take in the sights, sounds, and vibrant energy of the marina, creating cherished memories and enriching their experience of this enchanting locale.

Casino de Vilamoura and other recreational attractions
Beyond its beautiful beaches and high-quality accommodations, Vilamoura offers a rich array of cultural and recreational attractions. Some of these include Cerro da Vila, which houses fascinating Roman ruins situated behind the marina, and the insightful Vilamoura Museum. The Casino de Vilamoura and an Art Gallery provide further sources of entertainment and cultural enrichment. For relaxation and leisure, there are various Spas and leisure centers. Sporting enthusiasts can practice their skills at the Tennis Academy, while shoppers can explore the local Mall.

Vilamoura’s Falesia Beach at Winter Sunset

Vilamoura is primarily renowned for two exceptional beaches, Falesia and Vilamoura. Yet, its strategic location also facilitates swift access to other nearby beaches. Nestled between the marina and Quarteira, Vilamoura Beach is in close proximity to a variety of high-profile tourist complexes. This lively beach is the venue for various summer activities and is well-equipped with all the amenities and services desirable for beachgoers. Meanwhile, the expansive Falesia Beach, stretching 5 km until Olhos d’Agua, is a great destination for year-round walks and a summer hotspot.

Falesia walks
Falesia Beach, located to the west of Vilamoura Marina, spans an impressive 5km. Its prestige is derived from the fine golden sands that attract numerous families throughout the summer and beyond. Its vast expanse offers ample space for everyone, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors alike.

Falesia Beach and Vilamoura Beach
Both Falesia Beach and Vilamoura Beach have been awarded Blue Flags, signifying their compliance with high standards of environmental quality. Falesia Beach, one of the most expansive and popular beaches in the Algarve, stretches from Vilamoura to Albufeira, characterized by majestic red cliffs. On the other end of the spectrum is Praia do Marinotel, a wide beach situated at the opposite end of Vilamoura Marina, forming a scenic linkage between Vilamoura and Quarteira.

Late Summer Stroll
A Couple’s Tranquil Walk on Falesia Beach, Vilamoura

Off-Season Aerial Adventure
Motor Paragliding over Vilamoura Beach, with Iconic Hotels and Town Center in View

Victoria Golf Course with the Anantara Hotel Framing the Horizon
Renowned for its premier golf courses, Vilamoura serves as a paradise for golf enthusiasts and contributes significantly to the Algarve region’s touristic appeal.

The Old Course, Vilamoura’s first golf course, continues to be an iconic and internationally recognized destination for its time-honored design and challenging gameplay.

Millenium Course, celebrated as one of Portugal’s top golf courses, seamlessly blends traditional and modern design elements to provide a unique golfing experience.

For those seeking a strategic challenge, Laguna Course features ten distinct lakes scattered strategically throughout its landscape.

Additionally, Pinhal Course appeals to golfers of varying skill levels, thanks to its diverse degrees of difficulty.

Not to be overlooked, the Victoria Golf Course enhances Vilamoura’s reputation as a prime golfing destination, completing the array of outstanding golfing facilities available in the area.

Living in Vilamoura: active lifestyle
For families residing in Vilamoura, there’s an impressive range of year-round activities that cater to the young ones. This coastal gem offers comprehensive training facilities for a plethora of sports. The Golf Academy is a prime attraction, molding countless internationally recognized players. Equally impressive is the Equestrian Center, nurturing talent in horse riding and care. The Surf and Sailing Schools provide hands-on experience in marine sports, while the Tennis Academy caters to the land-based enthusiasts.

Beyond sports, Vilamoura also holds education in high esteem. The Colégio Internacional de Vilamoura (CIV), an international school, is a significant draw for families seeking superior educational opportunities for their children. By offering a diverse range of recreational and educational amenities, Vilamoura serves as a nurturing environment for young individuals to grow, learn, and excel.

Harmony of Nature: Lush Pines, Carobs, and Palms Dotting Vilamoura’s Golf Courses

Vilamoura is a golfer’s paradise
Providing all the necessary conditions for an exceptional golfing experience, Vilamoura and its verdant golf courses are well-maintained and equipped with modern facilities, creating an ideal environment for both novice and experienced golfers.

Highlighting its prominence in the golfing world, Vilamoura annually hosts the prestigious Portugal Masters, an event organized by the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA), typically held in October.

Vilamoura is Fully Certified Sustainable Tourism Destination Since 2011
Since November 2011, Vilamoura has distinguished itself as the first major tourist area to achieve full certification, having received Quality and Environment certifications for the public spaces under the management of Inframoura. Now, all new constructions within Vilamoura are certified with Aquaplus. This certification not only guarantees high-quality infrastructure, but also highlights a commitment to environmental conservation and resource management. As a result, Vilamoura stands as a model for sustainable development within the tourism industry.

Vilamoura’s development began around 50 years ago, growing out from its central marina across a total area of 1600 hectares. Today, it is considered one of the largest luxury tourist complexes in all of Europe. Offering around 950 hectares of green space, the city is home to six golf courses – Old Course, Millenium, Victoria, Laguna, Pinhal, and Vila Sol. In addition to these, Vilamoura offers a wide array of facilities designed to enhance the standard of living for its inhabitants. Whether it’s recreation, entertainment, or leisure, Vilamoura provides a wealth of options that cater to a high-quality lifestyle.

The Dunes Walkway: A Joyful Connection Between Vilamoura and Quarteira

Inaugurated on May 14th, 2016 by the Prime Minister of Portugal and the Mayor of Loulé, with Dr. Telmo Pinto, the Mayor of the parish of Quarteira present, the Dunes Walkway has been a significant contribution to the area. This transformed path breathes new life into the stunning coastal stretch, bridging the resort town of Vilamoura with the city of Quarteira. Not only does it offer residents and visitors an easy stroll to the fish and fruit markets, the marina, and the fishing port, but it also symbolizes a psychological union between the city and the resort.

Pinhal Velho, Vilamoura’s most prestigious residential enclave
Pinhal Velho is an idyllic haven exclusive to detached houses, boasting magnificent architecture and abundant land for construction. This luxurious district, with average plot sizes of 5000 sqm, hosts grand villas that encapsulate the epitome of fine living. Many of these properties enjoy a coveted adjacency to the verdant Victoria golf course, the prestigious venue for the recent Portugal Masters tournaments. Even though the area emanates a tranquil, retreat-like ambiance, it’s conveniently situated just about 3 kilometers away from the vibrant Vilamoura Marina, offering an exquisite balance of privacy and accessibility.

Millennium & Laguna residential area
The Millennium/Laguna district of Vilamoura is a recently developed area featuring modern villas and standalone apartments. These properties are typically used as secondary homes for holidaymakers and weekend retreats.

Though located approximately 3 kilometers from the bustling center of Vilamoura, the marina, beaches, and most services, the area boasts excellent connectivity thanks to Vilamoura’s comprehensive network of cycling paths, allowing residents to easily traverse the distance without the need for a car.

The Laguna and Millennium Golf Courses are just a stone’s throw away from these properties, providing many of them with stunning views over the golf courses. This area presents excellent investment opportunities, with significant development plans on the horizon.

The Old Course neighborhood
The Old Course neighborhood, home to Vilamoura’s first golf course, is a blend of detached houses of traditional design, townhouses, and apartments, predominantly painted in white. This mature district, brimming with abundant and native vegetation, exudes a unique charm that sets it apart from the newer regions of Vilamoura.

Being a distance away from the bustling city center, it offers a quieter atmosphere and less traffic, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer tranquility. The area houses a selection of restaurants, cafes, and mini markets, alongside the Vilamoura Sports Centre, which is equipped with tennis courts, football fields, swimming pools, and gyms. The center of Vilamoura is conveniently located about 4 kilometers away, ensuring the city’s amenities are within easy reach.

Pinhal / Vila Sol residential area
Situated on the outskirts of Vilamoura, towards Quarteira and Faro, the Pinhal / Vila Sol area is a peaceful haven predominantly composed of detached houses, two and three-bedroom townhouses, and some apartment complexes. Many of these homes have been thoughtfully designed around the Pinhal and Vila Sol golf courses, granting them spectacular views over the manicured greens and fairways. This area’s serene environment, combined with the appeal of golf-course living, makes it an attractive option for those seeking both tranquility and the golfing lifestyle.

Vilamoura Old Village & Hilton distric
The Old Village/Hilton district showcases the harmonious melding of Vilamoura’s rich past with its vibrant present. This area, which developed concurrently with the Vilamoura marina, houses a well-established community and offers an array of commercial services. An engaging mix of traditional dwellings and modern developments pervades the area, with a large number of apartments, boutique tourist accommodations, and detached homes. The recent addition of the prestigious Hilton Hotel, a standout in terms of five-star accommodations, further elevates the appeal of this locality.

Map of Vilamoura useful places
Guide to the town’s most notable locations. It begins at the Marina, a bustling hub renowned for water sports and leisure activities, ringed by a delightful array of restaurants, bars, and ice cream parlors. Continuing along the coastline, you’ll find the golden sands of Falesia and Vilamoura Beaches, perfect for relaxation and seaside walks. For culture and history enthusiasts, the map indicates the location of Cerro da Vila’s Roman ruins and the Vilamoura Casino, as well as the Tennis Academy. Shoppers can navigate their way to the shopping mall using this map. Additionally, it provides direction to supermarkets, and the impressive golf courses that Vilamoura boasts.