Vilamoura – the ultimate traveler’s guide

Having called Vilamoura my home for the past five years, I can confidently say that it stands as a pinnacle of elegance and sophistication in the realm of travel destinations.

Often referred to as the Monaco of Portugal, this enclave beckons not only the jet set and local luminaries but also those who appreciate opulence. Vilamoura, unlike any other Portuguese town, pulsates with vivacity and serves as a cherished preference for discerning travelers exploring the Algarve.

At its core lies the exclusive marina, adorned with glamorous yachts and surrounded by world-class hotels, gourmet dining, chic bars, designer boutiques, golf courses, a casino, and a pristine beach. In essence, if you seek a glimpse of luxury, Vilamoura is the place. Let this guide be your compass as you traverse the charms of Vilamoura.

Essential Insights

Born in 1974 under the vision of one of Lisbon’s wealthiest bankers, Vilamoura has burgeoned into the largest luxury private resort development in Portugal. Despite its nomenclature, Vilamoura is not a town but an expansive region celebrated for hosting some of the finest amenities in the Algarve.

Distinct from other Portuguese locales, Vilamoura magnetizes a clientele from the upper echelons of society. Visitors flock here in pursuit of quality over cost. Consequently, the allure of Vilamoura carries a heftier price tag than other Algarvian destinations.

Positioned within the Golden Triangle, alongside Almancil, Vale do Lobo, and Quinta do Lago, Vilamoura occupies a strategic location between Albufeira and Quarteira, approximately 25 kilometers from Faro Airport.

Must-Visit Spots in Vilamoura

The Casino Experience

Vilamoura hosts one of the Algarve’s limited number of casinos, providing a playground for poker, Black Jack, Portuguese dice games, and an array of slot machines exceeding 500.

The casino transcends mere gaming, featuring a remarkable bar, three distinct restaurants, and a bustling nightclub that garners popularity on weekends. However, be prepared for a prevalent scent of smoke as the smoking ban seems to evade this establishment.

Journey through Roman Ruins

A stone’s throw from the marina, the Roman villa ruins known as Cerro da Vila beckon history enthusiasts. Dating back to the 1st century, these ruins boast well-preserved mosaics, ancient baths, and the foundations of various structures. The site also houses a petite museum offering insights into the area’s rich past, providing a glimpse into the lives of its former inhabitants. For history aficionados, a visit to Cerro da Vila, priced at € 3, comes highly recommended.

Exploring the Enchanting Marina

The beating heart of Vilamoura lies in its mesmerizing marina. With a capacity for over 800 boats, adorned with opulent yachts, it proudly holds the title of the largest marina in Portugal.

Wandering along the charming boardwalk that encircles the marina is a delightful experience, especially at night when families take leisurely strolls after dinner, enjoying ice cream. If you relish the combination of people-watching and admiring luxurious boats, this boardwalk is your haven.

Aside from extravagant boats, keep an eye out for an array of luxury cars that often grace the surroundings.

The expansive nature of the boardwalk becomes evident when viewed from above, enveloping the entire marina in its embrace.

The marina’s periphery hosts a collection of luxury hotels, apartments, restaurants, bars, shops, and even a casino. It is, in essence, the epitome of the ideal locale for dining and indulging. Notably, former Portuguese soccer player Luís Figo boasts his own sports bar, Bar Sete (bar 7), in the marina. For those seeking a more upscale experience, numerous opportunities exist to savor champagne on a terrace overlooking the marina.

The marina stands as the nucleus of Vilamoura, a place that beckons exploration. If you desire to immerse yourself in this luxurious lifestyle, you can even charter your own yacht for a day.

Golfers’ Paradise

After five years in Vilamoura, I can attest to its reputation as one of the Algarve’s premier golf destinations.

The standout golf courses in the vicinity include:

• Laguna
• Millennium
• Old Course (voted the best golf course in Portugal a few years ago)
• Pinhal
• Victoria
• Vila Sol

Each of these golf courses boasts exemplary facilities, ensuring a top-notch golfing experience. If you’re looking to take up the sport, consider visiting the Golf Integrated Academy, Lesters Golf, or the Vila Sol Golf Academy.

Sun and Sand at Praia de Vilamoura

For those seeking sun and sand, Vilamoura’s own beach, known as Praia de Vilamoura, nestled between the marina and Quarteira, is a haven.

Frequently utilized by tourists in the area, this beach offers a plethora of water sports options, including paragliding, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. In the summer, vibrant beach parties come to life in the beach bars dotting the shoreline.

Aquatic Adventures

The beaches surrounding Vilamoura provide a playground for an array of water sports, ensuring a thrilling experience for enthusiasts. From kitesurfing to parasailing, kayaking to wakeboarding, stand-up paddleboarding to jet skiing, and the classic banana boat ride, Vilamoura caters to all adventure seekers on water.

Exploring Beyond Vilamoura

While Vilamoura itself is a captivating destination, exploring nearby towns like Faro, Albufeira, or Loulé adds another layer to your experience. Elevate your stay with unforgettable excursions such as dolphin watching, quad tours through nature, coastal boat tours unveiling stunning caves, or visits to renowned water parks. Many of these excursions can be conveniently booked online, ensuring a memorable Algarve adventure.

Accommodation Oasis

Vilamoura boasts a diverse range of hotels, though most lean towards the higher end. Unveil the best value for your money with our curated list of favorite hotels in Vilamoura.

Budget-Friendly Gem

• Hotel Parque das Laranjeiras: A three-star gem offering excellent value. All rooms feature balconies with scenic views, comfortable beds, and a friendly staff. An ideal choice for those seeking affordability without compromising on quality during their stay in Vilamoura.

Mid-Range Retreats

• Laguna Resort – Vilamoura: A four-star haven comprising villas and apartments, each with unique perks. Villas boast private gardens and terraces, while apartments offer scenic sea views from delightful terraces. With proximity to the Laguna golf course and a kids club, this resort is an ideal choice for families.

Upscale Oasis

• Tivoli Marina Vilamoura: A five-star gem overlooking Vilamoura’s marina and beach. Luxurious rooms, a stunning terrace with an outdoor pool, and on-site wellness facilities, including a gym, sauna, and body treatments, contribute to an opulent experience. Highly regarded for its excellence.

Culinary Delights

Vilamoura unfolds a tapestry of exquisite dining options. Below, discover our favored restaurants offering diverse culinary experiences.

Local Flavors

• Rafael Restaurante: A cozy Portuguese eatery showcasing the flavors of fresh local ingredients. Delight in excellent prawns and chicken piri piri, served with a genuine smile.
• Restaurante O Marisco: An authentic Portuguese dining experience featuring fresh fish and delectable meats. Enjoy a superb ambiance and friendly service, accompanied by a picturesque view of the marina.

Global Tastes

• Mughal Clay Indian Restaurant: Savor some of the finest curry in Vilamoura at this Indian gem. Noteworthy for its great garlic naan and overall tasty offerings, providing good value for money with excellent service.
• My Thai: A haven for Thai cuisine enthusiasts, offering generous portions and the region’s best Thai food. Request extra spice if you dare. Situated near the marina, it stands out as one of the finest restaurants in the area.

Gastronomic Elegance

• EMO Restaurant: Embark on a culinary journey at this establishment, providing first-class food and exceptional wine. With a knowledgeable sommelier, the restaurant offers a great view, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
• Willies Restaurant: Vilamoura’s only Michelin-starred eatery, led by renowned chef Willie Wurger. Superb food, impeccable service, and a selection of amazing signature dishes. Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended.

Laid-Back Lounges

For those yearning to unwind under the sun with music in the background, Vilamoura boasts several lounge bars, with our top pick being Purobeach. This gem features a garden area with a pool and a beachside zone, complete with a DJ, delectable cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere. Conveniently situated in front of the Tivoli Marina hotel.