Algarve Golf & Spa Retreat

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We’d heard Hilton Vilamoura was one of the Algarve’s most versatile resorts for golfers, families, and spa lovers, and after spending time there, we can confirm it really does tick all the boxes. Sitting right beside the Dom Pedro Pinhal Golf Course, it’s the perfect base for a stay-and-play holiday, with plenty of ways to unwind when you’re off the course.

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Arrival & First Impressions

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The resort is set within landscaped gardens, just a short drive from Vilamoura Marina. The lobby feels bright and open, with plenty of natural light and a relaxed atmosphere. Hilton Vilamoura strikes a balance between modern design and a holiday resort vibe—it’s upscale but still warm and welcoming.

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Rooms

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We stayed in a Deluxe Room overlooking the main pool. The space was generous, with a comfy seating area, a private balcony, and a marble bathroom featuring both a tub and walk-in shower. Everything felt fresh and practical, making it easy to settle in without over-the-top fuss.

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Golf

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For golfers, Hilton Vilamoura is ideally located. It’s directly adjacent to Dom Pedro Pinhal Golf Course, which is just a short stroll or shuttle ride away.

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• Dom Pedro Pinhal (18 holes, par 72) offers tree-lined fairways and gently rolling terrain. It’s playable for all levels but still has enough challenge to keep things interesting.

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Through the resort’s Golf Concierge, we also played Dom Pedro Old Course, Millennium, Laguna, and Victoria—all within a few minutes’ drive. Tee times, transfers, and even PGA lessons were easily arranged, making it a seamless experience.

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Spa & Wellness

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The 7 Seven Spa is a real highlight here—it’s one of the largest hotel spas in Portugal. The thermal circuit has everything you need to recover post-round: a hydrotherapy pool, saunas, steam rooms, sensory showers, and even an ice fountain. Treatments are tailored for both relaxation and sports recovery; we opted for deep tissue massages, which were excellent.

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There’s also a well-equipped gym with natural light and fitness classes like yoga and Pilates, so you can keep your wellness routine going even while on holiday.

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Pools & Family Amenities

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The resort is designed to suit both couples and families. There are six pools, including a children’s pool with slides, an adults-only quiet pool, and an indoor heated pool for year-round use. The Paradise Island Kids’ Club was clearly a big hit with families while we were there—it gives parents a chance to relax knowing little ones are entertained.

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Dining

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The dining options are varied and easygoing:

• Moscada is where you’ll find an impressive breakfast buffet each morning, along with themed dinners in the evening.

• Cilantro is the more refined, seasonal restaurant, focusing on Mediterranean dishes.

• Aquarela Pool Bar is perfect for light lunches and casual snacks between swims.

• Rubi Bar serves cocktails and small plates in the evenings, often with live music to round off the day.

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It’s not overcomplicated—just good quality, well-executed food in relaxed settings.

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The Overall Stay

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Hilton Vilamoura has a little bit of everything: easy access to top Algarve golf courses, a huge spa for recovery, multiple pools, and a mix of dining that works for couples, groups, or families. It’s one of those resorts where you can be as active or as laid-back as you like.

For a golf and spa holiday in Vilamoura, with family-friendly touches and a stress-free setup, it’s an excellent choice—and one we’d happily return to.