Vilamoura is one of the most popular resort towns in the
Algarve. Famous for its marina, which is among the largest in Europe, Vilamoura
provides an endless source of entertainment for holidaymakers.
From golfing on world-class golf courses to dolphin-sighting tours to the evening shows at the Casino, there’s never a boring day in Vilamoura. There are six remarkable golf courses in Vilamoura: Vila Sol, Victoria, Millennium, Laguna, Pinhal and the Old Course, each with its own challenging features. And for the families there is also the Family Golf Park, a mini-golf course filled with attractions inspired by ancient Rome.
Besides golf, Vilamoura offers other sports facilities like tennis courts, a bowling club and a horse riding centre. For the water sports enthusiasts, there is parasailing, scuba diving and jet skiing available on the marina and the beaches of Vilamoura.
The
marina is Vilamoura’s main attraction. It was established in the 1970’s and has
over 800 berths that now serve as a haven for luxurious boats and yachts from
all sizes. If you don’t own a yacht, you can join one of the many boat
trips departing from the marina that offer sunset cruises, sea cave tours and
dolphin watching tours. Along
the marina, you’ll also find a huge range of services including shops, high-end
hotels and upscale restaurants serving a mix of Portuguese and international
cuisine.
During the Summer, Vilamoura becomes a hotspot for celebrities that come here to enjoy its long sandy beaches and the town’s bustling nightlife in clubs like Agua Moments and Puro Beach. Another popular spot for night gatherings is the Casino Vilamoura, not just for its vibrant game rooms but for the music and the dance shows that often take place here.
As for beaches, Vilamoura has two - Praia da Falésia and Praia de Vilamoura, both certified Blue Flag beaches. Praia da Falésia is renowned for its striking red cliffs and is located on the west side of the marina, while Praia de Vilamoura is located on the east, stretching all the way to the town of Quarteira.
The Roman ruins of Cerro da Vila are one of Vilamoura’s hidden gems providing an insight into the town’s past. The ruins include public baths, salt tanks and a necropolis. You can also see other relics at the Cerro da Vila Museum which were found during excavations in the area.
Annual
events in Vilamoura include the Vilamoura Carnival Sailing Week in February and
the Saints Festival, a month-long celebration in June, which attracts both
locals and tourists.
Explore this region by following our Loule 5 day tour. Also read about Loulé, Quarteira, Almancil, Boliqueime, Alte and Salir.