The southern Algarve resort of Vilamoura is far removed from the small fishing village it once was. Although the town still has an old quarter it is now a custom built leisure resort catering for just about every holidaymaker. It is the site of one of the biggest tourist complexes in Europe, occupying some 2,00 hectares of pine woods and beaches.
Some of the earliest visitors to Vilamoura were the Romans and evidence of their extended stay can be seen at the Museum of Cerro da Vila, which provides a fascinating glimpse into Vilamoura’s early history. One of the best preserved buildings within the ruins of the Roman settlement once contained the baths which were used by Vilamoura mariners for several centuries after the Roman occupiers departed.
But Vilamoura isn’t a great place for history lovers, or amateur archeologists. It’s a resort for fun, sun and nightlife.
The main area of modern commerce is around the 1,000 berth marina, which is crammed with yachts both large and small, owned by celebrities and those less well-known, who just like to hang out in a resort with sun, fabulous beaches, great sporting facilities and a lively atmosphere when the sun does eventually go down.
Right next to the marina is the casino, which as well as the full range of gambling tables provides sophisticated evening entertainment with an international line-up, and several excellent restaurants. After the cabaret, if you have the energy, you can dance the night away at the Blackjack Disco.
Vilamoura is best known for its championship golf courses, and most of them have self catering apartments, restaurants and leisure facilities within stylish complexes. If golf is not your sport, there is plenty of other activities to entertain the visitor.
There is a first class tennis centre, a riding school, a shooting club and a sports complex. For those visitors who prefer to arrive by air rather than sea there is a private landing strip, and 4 and 5 star hotels to accommodate them.
Sun worshippers have the choice of two superb beaches, Praia da Marina, to the east of the marina and Praia da Falésia to the west. The Praia da Falésia stretches as far as the neighbouring resort of Olhos d’Água.
