Vilamoura Hotels
Mini guide to Vilamoura
Vilamoura is the name given to a 2,000 hectare area of land in the magnificent
Algarve, which houses the largest single tourist complex in Europe. It is a laid-back
resort community bursting with vibrant sporting and leisure facilities for the
entire family.
In Vilamoura central, a preserved Roman site and the Museum of Cerro da Vila
provide interesting historical information about the area. Ancient baths used
by mariners of the era can also be viewed at the ruins.
Although the name Vilamoura means 'Moorish village', the area was inhabited
long before the time of the Moors. Excavations just north of the marina have
revealed the ruins of a Roman villa, baths and farm buildings known as the Cerro
da Vila. A collection of recovered mosaics, Roman lamps and Visigothic coins
can be seen in a museum nearby.
The extensive resort area offers a wide range of recreational facilities, including
four different golf courses, a bowling club, a tennis centre, a sports club
and a shooting club. Additionally, there are upmarket hotels, tourist apartments,
self-catering villas, night clubs, an international casino, a cinema and an
excellent riding school.
To the south lies a long sandy beach with a backdrop of red coloured cliffs,
and the Atlantic Ocean, where big game fishing is a popular pastime. There is
a large shopping centre and a vast marina which harbours some impressive vessels.
The waterfront makes for a wonderful stroll by day or night. Numerous restaurants
and nightclubs are concentrated throughout the area, offering both local and
international cuisine.
Close to Vilamoura is Quarteira, a once-small fishing village which has since
developed into a thriving town. Loulé, the commercial and administrative
centre, lies to the northeast of the area. It features a Moorish castle and
the 13th century church of São Clemente. Nearby at Almancil, is one of
the Algarve's most important religious buildings, the parish church of São
Lourenço. It features a fine gilded altar and 18th century azulejo glazed
tiles depicting the life of St Lawrence.
Vilamoura can be easily reached via the N125 from Faro Airport, only 28kms
away. Flights arrive here from all over Europe. The IP1 motorway connects the
Algarve to Spain. There are also coach and rail services from most European
cities. Additionally, the Algarve can be reached through the many ports spread
all along the south Portugal coast.
Selection of hotels in this region:
Cegonha Country Club | | Dom Pedro Portobelo | | Oasis Village | | Olympus Sun Club | | Parque Mourabel | | Pe do Lago | | Tivoli Marinotel | | Vila Gale Ampalius | | Vila Gale Marina | |
Click below for a
full list of hotels and online booking
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