3 Nights, 2 Rounds
The Old Course Vilamoura is one of the Algarve's most established resort layouts. A Frank Pennink design that opened in 1969, it's long been known as the 'Grand Dame' of the region. You'll find it right in the heart of Vilamoura, so it's an easy one to build into a trip, whether you're staying by the marina or at one of the resort's top hotels. It also makes a cracking centrepiece for an Algarve golf break.
Pennink's routing winds through mature umbrella pines, with plenty of holes framed beautifully from tee to green. It's not a course that asks you to bash driver everywhere either. In my opinion, it's at its best when you plot your way round, pick sensible targets and keep the ball in play. Miss the fairway and the trees quickly turn a par chance into a scramble.
Conditions are typically excellent, with quick, true greens and firm fairways in the summer months. The bunkering is also cleverly placed, rarely unfair, but often exactly where your safe miss wants to finish. Tee sheets can be busy in peak season, so it's worth booking in advance.
If you're looking for a memorable round in Vilamoura with proper pedigree, this is the one that still feels like a must-play.
Who is this for?
Golfers wanting that classic Vilamoura mix of quality golf, easy hotel access and plenty to do after the round, from the marina to bars and restaurants.
Who is it best for?
Mid to low handicappers and mixed-ability groups who enjoy strategic, tree-lined golf where keeping it in play matters more than swinging out of your shoes.
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3 Nights, 2 Rounds
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These are example flights.
You'll choose your departure airport, and flight requirements later.
Flights, 4 Nights, 3 Rounds
These are example flights.
You'll choose your departure airport, and flight requirements later.
Flights, 4 Nights, 3 Rounds
These are example flights.
You'll choose your departure airport, and flight requirements later.
Flights, 5 Nights, 3 Rounds
These are example flights.
You'll choose your departure airport, and flight requirements later.
Flights, 4 Nights, 3 Rounds
These are example flights.
You'll choose your departure airport, and flight requirements later.
Flights, 4 Nights, 3 Rounds
These are example flights.
You'll choose your departure airport, and flight requirements later.
Flights, 7 Nights, 4 Rounds
These are example flights.
You'll choose your departure airport, and flight requirements later.
Flights, 5 Nights, 3 Rounds
These are example flights.
You'll choose your departure airport, and flight requirements later.
Flights, 5 Nights, 3 Rounds
These are example flights.
You'll choose your departure airport, and flight requirements later.
Flights, 7 Nights, 4 Rounds
These are example flights.
You'll choose your departure airport, and flight requirements later.
Measuring 6,839 yards, the course is by no means the longest by modern standards, but it has certainly stood the test of time. Frank Pennink's original design has seen minor alterations, particularly in 1996 when a brand new clubhouse was also unveiled, but the course is predominantly the same as it was in its early days.
In 2024, the Old Course Vilamoura underwent a full renovation with a strong focus on upgrading bunkers, tees, greens, and the entire playing surface. But beyond the game, the works were also guided by strong ESG principles, including water-saving initiatives such as the installation of wood chips in non-playable areas to reduce irrigation needs.
The driving range is now home to Portugal’s largest TrackMan Range, with 20 bays an unmatched practice experience. The clubhouse, also refurbished in 2024, offers a refined culinary journey through authentic Portuguese flavours.
Signature Hole: Hole 16, Par 4
This intricate par 4 doglegs to the left, calling for an accurate drive to ensure your second shot isn't blocked out by the surrounding trees. The Old Course Vilamoura will test better players while still being fair enough on the higher handicappers.
The Old Course Vilamoura is ranked as one of the best courses in Portugal
| Par | 73 |
|---|---|
| Designed by | Frank Pennink |
| Opened for play | 1969 |
| Previously hosted | Portugal Open (1996) |
| White | 6,254 metres | SSS 72 |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow | 5,913 metres | SSS 71 |
| Blue | 5,718 metres | SSS 75 |
| Red | 5,086 metres | SSS 73 |
Craig
✓25 Jul 2026
Matthew
✓5 Jul 2026
Mitchell
✓3 Jul 2026
Very tired and needed maintenance , I love the old course for lay out and staff was great also , I think the price is a little steep Now as the greens may need doing in the future to reflect the price but overall I love it at the old course
Jon
✓28 Jun 2026
Possibly the best course I’ve played over there. Touches of luxury everywhere you go. Clubs taken on arrival. Free coffee and drinks station. Free use of the range and trackman. Order food and drinks to your buggy if you don’t want to wait. Guy comes round with cold towels when it’s hot and then they will clean your clubs when you finish for a tip of your choice. Every hole could be a signature hole. I played awful and absolutely loved the place.
Dan
✓26 Jun 2026
David
✓15 Jun 2026
Absolutely fantastic! The improvements they have made in the course are very impressive! The staff are also very friendly and helpful, they made us feel very welcome
Harry
✓11 Jun 2026
Stephen
✓10 Jun 2026
Kyle
✓8 Jun 2026
Nicolas
✓5 Jun 2026
Still working on course but no distractions.
