Things to do in Vilamoura

Vilamoura is a purpose built complex and is one of the largest tourist resorts in Europe. As a result, most of the things to do here are heavily focused around leisure activities and relaxation with the golf courses being one of the biggest attractions. You will also find some fascinating Roman ruins which allow you explore and discover the history of the area. The nearby towns and villages offer further opportunities for sightseeing and learning about Portuguese culture.

Museum of Cerro da Vila

The ruins at Cerro da Vila offer an excellent opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the area. The ruins include a beautiful rustic villa in among the fields. It is believed that this villa was originally inhabited in the 1st century AD, but has had many modifications over the years. The walls of the villa were once decorated with colourful frescoes and floral designs and the floor was a multi-coloured mosaic. The archaeological digs here have uncovered an array of items such as lamps, pottery and glass that were not native to this area, proving that Cerro da Vila was in the Roman Empires trade network. There have also been some excavations uncovering a cemetery. Today there is a museum with information about the site and the local history. For more information, tel: +351 289 312 153

Querena

A short drive north of Vilamoura will lead you to Querena, a traditional Algarve village with its white painted houses and a stunning 16th century church. The church has a unique Manueline doorway and the chapels have 18th century gilded vestals. You will also find an array of interesting statues here including a 17th century Nossa Senhora da Assunco and Virgin and Child from the 16th century. While you are in Querena, it is worth visiting Fonte Benemola, a protected site lying between Querena and the village of Tor. There are a number of nature trails and the area is great for bird watching. There are also a number of caves with archaeological remains.

Beaches

Vilamoura Main Beach is a good, if unspectacular beach, but is well located for all amenities. Most people do however prefer to explore other beaches in the region.

Falesia beach is a vast golden sandy beach and is considered one of the best in the Algarve. The long beach stretches all the way from Vilamoura to Oura, just east of Albufeira. It is overlooked by the stunning deep red cliffs. These cliffs provide some breathtaking views, especially at sunset.

Along the Algarve coast, you will find numerous beaches with golden sand and crystal clear waters. They can all be easily reached by car and the further out you travel, the more likely you are to find a secluded bay.

Almancil

The charming village of Almancil is just six miles from Vilamoura and has an interesting chapel and art gallery. The chapel of Sao Lourenco dos Matos was built in 1722 after local people witnessed a miracle. The small church is well worth the trip with its baroque style exterior and impressive tiled entrance. The blue and white colour of the interior makes a striking impact and the church is considered one of the treasures of the south of Portugal.