If you’re dreaming of a move to Portugal’s Algarve, and you’re looking for world-class facilities on a friendly, liveable scale, then Vilamoura might be for you. One of the region’s glitziest resorts, it nonetheless retains a ‘human scale’, with a welcoming, active local community.

Life in Vilamoura

Vilamoura is perhaps not the most authentically Portuguese parts of the Algarve, but it certainly appeals to anyone who wants everything right on their doorstep. It was founded in the 1960s by banker Cupertino de Miranda, and today boasts the largest marina in Portugal – a gold-star facility with almost 1,000 berths – five-star hotels, beautiful sandy beaches, and an excellent casino.

Golfing fans are in luck, with six golf courses nearby, including the Victoria course, where Ollie Fisher recently shot the first 59 of the European Tour. Keeping active doesn’t stop at golf, with clubs ranging from tennis to shooting and even two grass bowling greens at the Lawn Club. You’ll certainly never run out of things to do!

How can you get to Vilamoura?

Vilamoura’s just ten miles from Faro Airport, which has flights to all major UK and Irish destinations. If you don’t have a car, you can go by taxi – the prices are fixed for the distance. In general, in the Algarve, it’s a good idea to have a car to make the most of the region.

Where are the best areas to buy property in Vilamoura?

Marina de Vilamoura

The glamorous marina is one of the most popular areas of the town, and living in an apartment here puts you right in the heart of the action, with restaurants, bars, cafés and more close by. Fancy a hotel breakfast of a Sunday? Why not the Hilton?

Old Course

By the famous Old Course, you’ll find largely single-family homes in tree-lined avenues and side roads. Generally speaking, this is an area you’ll want a car to get around, but it’s quiet, safe and green. Plus, of course, there’s so much golf within striking distance!

Old Village

Although not really old, the Old Village is another great option to look for property in, as this gated complex provides all the facilities you could want right on your doorstep. And, given its popularity among holidaymakers, it could be the perfect place to purchase a buy-to-let holiday home.

Quarteiria

Technically not part of Vilamoura, Quarteira is perhaps ever so slightly cheaper, and you can find a more typically ‘Portuguese’ atmosphere here, with a regular weekly market selling handbags and clothing, and restaurants serving delicious fish dishes along the palm-lined seafront.

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Find out everything you need to know about the buying process in Portugal, from choosing your area to when to involve a notary and how to make an offer, with our free Portugal Buying Guide

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