Vila Gale Ampalius

Golf shapes the rhythm of a stay at Vila Galé Ampalius, with a complimentary shuttle linking the hotel to The Old Course, Pinhal, Millennium, Laguna and Vila Sol. This four-star hotel apartment property stands by Vilamoura Marina and only steps from Praia da Marina, so a morning tee time can give way easily to a walk along the waterfront. The setting suits groups wanting several courses within easy each, while the marina’s restaurants, bars and shops bring some life to the evenings between rounds.

The five courses provide useful variety across a week. Pinhal is a tree-lined, parkland-style par 72 where position from the tee matters, while Millennium also takes a parkland route through the Vilamoura landscape. Laguna has a more open, links-like feel, asking players to adapt to the exposed ground and changing breeze. The Old Course carries the imprint of Frank Pennink, adding a classic course to the schedule, and Vila Sol completes the shuttle-served choice.

There are 357 bedrooms, including 84 family suites, with many rooms and suites opening onto balconies facing the sea, an easy spot for breakfast before heading out. Five junior suites are adapted for guests with reduced mobility. Versátil handles buffet breakfast from 07:00 until 10:30 and dinner from 19:00 until 22:00, while Massa Fina serves artisanal pizza for lunch and dinner. Fidelio bar, the year-round Vila Galé Café and the seasonal Splash pool bar cover drinks at different points of the day. Outdoor pools, tennis courts and games rooms sit alongside Satsanga Spa, where the heated indoor pool, sauna, Turkish bath and Vichy shower are particularly welcome after 18 holes. Faro Airport is around 30 minutes away.