DISCOVER ALGARVE-VILAMOURA
OUR STAGE.YOUR STORY. ENJOY THE JOURNEY…
COME AND SEE ALGARVE THROUGH OUR EYES... Sunlight, warm Mediterranean climate, some of Europe's most beautiful beaches from where you can admire the rustic mountains, combining the smell of the sea with the scent of wild flowers and the friendliness of the people. Everything in the Algarve is a source of energy, offering you the chance to recharge your batteries. All year round, the region's beaches rich in variety, natural reserves, picturesque villages, world renown golf courses, castles and fortresses and great outdoors can be enjoyed in all their splendour. History, culture, and the popular local cuisine are readily available to all those who are curious to experience the present flavours from a distant time and only a step away of the excitement of the Algarve nightlife. Bars, discos, marinas and casinos guarantee visitors the very best kind of fun & relaxation. Amidst landscapes of stunning beauty, the old embraces the modern, as Algarve/Vilamoura reinforces it’s credentials as a key destination for Business Meetings and Incentive programmes, with the facilities, technical resources and teams of high performing professionals necessary to match even the most demanding event. The people of the Algarve have mixed freely with other cultures for many centuries and have long been open to welcoming visitors. Perhaps this is why people always have fond memories of the Algarve…. This is the true portrait of an Algarve that you'll find waiting for you, all year round. Discover what makes it perfect for YOU…
OUR STAGE.YOUR STORY.
GREAT WEATHER
A STABLE CLIMATE FOR ALL OCCASIONS
This region enjoys one of the most stable climates in the world, with 300 days of sunshine per year, meaning more sunny days than almost anywhere else in Europe. As a result, the Algarve has a longstanding reputation not only as a summer destination within Europe but also as a top winter retreat for those looking to escape from coldest months. Algarve's entire coast enjoys a Mediterranean-style microclimate, with Spring and Summer being long and Winter short and mild. Rain usually does not stay here for long, opening with a warm sun right after, having a low annual average rainfall and temperatures varying from 13º C in winter through to 30º C in summer. With over 3.000 hours of sunny days per year, that means more time for YOU to benefit from the open air‌.
ALGARVE HISTORY & PEOPLE
AN OLD SOUL IN A NEW WORLD. A UNIQUE WAY TO DO, FEEL AND LIVE
World Heritage and Influences from other Worlds. In the heart of the Old World, where for centuries Barbarians, Romans and Moorish have lived, Algarve carries a unique architectural and cultural legacy and was the stage where the Discoveries for the New World started..... In Algarve there is a unique way to do, feel, celebrate and live. There are signs of the Age of Discovery which time has not erased and are forever linked, with an invaluable heritage of historical monuments. Sagres, today a World Heritage Centre, is a testament to Portuguese history and maritime expansion and marks Europe's most south-western corner. Here, in the tip of Continental Europe, in ancient times thought to be the edge of the flat Earth, with the cape consisting of a steep cliff of about 69 m, with almost no vegetation, the force of Nature is so strong that visitors soon understand why it lured 15th Century Portuguese explorers to set sail into the unknown, redefining the world’s map and minds. Today, in Lagos, the Caravel Boa Esperança (Caravel of Good Hope) still exists as a near replica faithful to the 15th century original, Caravel of the Discoveries, for visitors to go on board to discover the glories of past explorations. People in Algarve. Most of all, it is our special history with people that makes Algarvian People so special too. Having dealt with different civilisations for so many centuries, what you’ll find in Algarve is some of the friendliest People in the world, with an extraordinary hospitality, tolerant and relaxed attitude to visitors and arms wide open to other cultures. Our Identity. With Fado in our soul (Portuguese most traditional music genre, classified as UNESCO’s World’s Heritage Cultural Patrimony), travel in time, back to the past is easy in Algarve, as all this history can be seen not only in several ruins, museums & monuments across the region, but also experienced through Algarve’s rich folk heritage, with old customs & art crafts becoming living traditions, celebrations, historical buildings of ancient and recent times, the flavours of a unique regional cuisine contributing for the healthy Mediterranean Diet (classified as World Heritage by Unesco) and unparalleled friendliness of a people.
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ALGARVE HISTORY & PEOPLE
ALGARVE HISTORY & PEOPLE
KEY BUSINESS DESTINATION EXCELLENCE OF SERVICE. SPECTACULAR SETTING.
There is nothing better than being able to combine work with leisure. In Vilamoura, this combination is possible. Vilamoura has established itself as Europe´s biggest touristic resort and is well-placed as one of the best Meeting Industry destinations in the world. With 50 years of existence and experience in mastering the art of hospitality, welcoming world travellers of all walks of life, Vilamoura is the ideal location for a relaxed working atmosphere in which privacy and tranquillity are the prevailing mood, reinforcing the region’s credentials as ideal for staging business meetings and incentive programmes. Modern Vilamoura has fast become a key destination, while within a short distance away from major European capitals, benefitting from good air and land links, in a region of landscapes of stunning beauty, where English is widely spoken, supported by excellent local facilities, WOW venues of all sizes & tastes, modern infrastructures and teams of high performing professionals capable to respond efficiently & creatively to all logistic, technical and business needs of even the most demanding event, guaranteeing its success. To complete the picture, the region provides many options for having a good time between meetings, whether for one own free time or within a group planned activities program, completing the well balanced circle that cleverly combines business with pleasure.
EASY TO REACH. EASY TO BE IN. ACCESSIBLE. AFFORDABLE. MEMORABLE.
Vilamoura´s Easy Access. Only 30 minutes driving from Faro International Airport and 2.5 hours distance from Lisbon & Seville´s Inter. Airports. Good Healthy Living at International levels. With so many hours of sun in the year, you can benefit from the open air and take full advantage of Vilamoura´s healthy living and pleasantly free lifestyle, which have made it the biggest & best private resort in Portugal and the only certificated destination classified as “National Quality of Life Reserve”. In no other urban complex can you have 950 hectares of treated green areas, with all the necessary residential infrastructures supporting it, with International Health Care facilities, good sports and leisure complexes, an extensive and functional network of cycle paths, footpaths throughout gardens, shops, restaurants and service companies in practically all areas. European Quality, at Affordable Prices with Peaceful Safety. Services in Portugal/Algarve are among the lowest in Western Europe combining affordable experiences while still upholding high standards of service and a great lifestyle. Algarve/Vilamoura area can be enjoyed without a care in the world, with Portugal ranking on the top 20 of the safest countries in the world, in a region where tourist services and facilities all bear the seal of quality. Central Location. Centrally located within the region, Vilamoura is therefore the ideal base and jump start to explore the rest of the Algarve, in a wide range of activities and experiences, perfectly combining business with pleasure.
THINGS TO DO
FOR ALL TASTES. FOR ALL AGES. FOR ALL SEASONS.
Vilamoura Marina. Providing its visitors with a prestigious atmosphere is Europe's leading prize-winning Marina, a great waterfront that is a beautiful open sky shopping Centre, ranging from exquisite shops; boutiques; top restaurants, bars and a Casino. The Marina is a major Vilamoura landmark and makes the resort area one of the Algarve's most cosmopolitan destinations. A variety of water activities are frequently held for sea & boating enthusiasts in general, such as deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, dolphin watching or to join one of the many boat cruises and yachts along the coast, with stop overs for barbecues at the beach or sunset experiences. Vilamoura by Night. International, modern, attractive, dynamic! This is Vilamoura, a “must see” all year through, with a selection for all tastes and states of mind. The Casino present quality shows, and include luxurious gaming rooms. Along the marina and by the seaside at dusk, it is time to enjoy from get-togethers and sunset parties where outdoor relaxing lounges, music and fun are the order of the day. After nightfall and even during the so-called low-season, Vilamoura and its surroundings, maintain its allure with countless restaurants, bars and leisure spots creating a diverse atmosphere and experiences. To continue dancing and socialize with friends well into the night, the area offers many discos and clubs, in the open air or indoor, with their sophisticated décors, famous DJs and different genres of music extending charm and glamour and which have definitely put Vilamoura on the map of the best known and popular night venues. Festivities and Events. Algarve embraces any chance to celebrate and an open invitation is extended to all visitors.Throughout the year you may witness many Religious & Popular Festivities keeping traditions alive and some Gastronomic & Folklore Fairs showcasing the best of the Algarve. In addition, the region hosts along the year a wide range of events: exquisite Social Parties like “White Night”, Medieval & Arabic Nights, Algarve´s Chef and Spa Weeks, the mythical European Bike Concentration, Classic Cars and Boat Shows, “Fiesa” the biggest Sand Sculptures in the world and Music Festivals in historical venues or outdoors. To complete the picture, the region stages major international Competitions for golf, athletics, cycling, equestrian, sailing and motor sports… all bringing the whole region to life, every month, in its own special way.
•Shopping, Local Markets, Beaches, Spa, Tennis, Golf, Golf Clinics, Mini-Golf, Golf Simulator (at Hilton Vilamoura) •Private Tours for: Cities, Historical Algarve, “Route of the Discoveries”, Best of the East| West| Inland Algarve, Vicentina Coast, Tradition Routes •Explore Algarve by: Segway, Harley Davidson, Classic Cars, Trike Experiences, Quad Biking, Buggy, 4x4 Adventure, Jeep Safari (Thematic Routes available) •Electric/Standard Bike rental, BTT Tours, Horse Riding •Coastline: Speed Boats, Water Caves Boat Cruises, BBQ at the Beach, Champagne Yachts •Water Sports: Jet Ski, Rings, Parasailing, Water Parks, Canoe, Kayak, Paddle, Surf & Windsurf, Sailing, Fly Boarding (ocean, lake, Ria Formosa lagoon) •Dolphins watching Cruises, Bird Watching, Animal interaction (Zoomarine: Interaction with the Dolphins, Portuguese Water Dog) •Ria Formosa Reserve (Natural Lagoon Ecosystem): by boat, trails, Clam picking Experience •Nature Paddy, Rally Paper, Orientation Activities, Treasure Hunt, Fitness Circuit •Karting (indoor and outdoor), Race Track Experiences-Team Building in Algarve Autodromo •Gastronomic Experiences, Traditional/Folk Musical Performances, Wine/Local liquors tasting, Workshops (available at Hilton Vilamoura) •Ballooning, Free Fall, Skydiving, Parachuting, Hang Gliding, Helicopter rides •Corporate Social Responsibility -Team building •Team Building Games (Human Monopoly, Beach Games,etc.… incorporated on the activities above or at Hilton Vilamoura´s resort grounds) •A tailor-made Activities Program can be prepared by Hilton Vilamoura especially for you, taking into consideration your preferences, participants ‘free time on your Event Agenda and time of the year. All to make sure you will make the most of Algarve during your stay with us.
NATURE, WILDLIFE & LANDSCAPE ONE REGION. MANY WORLDS.PERFECT BALANCE.
There is nothing better than being able to combine people with nature. In Algarve, this combination is possible. Nature.The Algarve’s natural diversity is undoubtedly one of its greatest riches allowing visitors to easily pass through different environments within the same landscape, in which Nature remains untouched, some only a short drive away from the cities. These nature parks & protected sites foster a multitude of animals and plants, from migrating birds to some species at risk of extinction and others unique to the region. All of which form part of a sustainable tourism, which allows the visitors to live alongside the Algarvian paradise, in which the dominant theme is the unchanging delight of nature. Landscapes. From the beaches to the Ria Formosa Lagoon and the Algarvian Mountains, there is a whole world in Algarve, ready to be witnessed and many ways to do it. Away from the sandy beaches, the Mountain hills form a protective barrier for the coast, with a heavenly scenery of deep valleys, mountains of green forests, unique plant life, making way for wild orchids & all sorts of flowers, typical little villages & orange trees, orchards of fig, carob and almond trees in blossom that paint in the landscape a snow mantle of white & pink. By the ocean, further enriching the setting are breathtaking cliffs, natural lookouts and lighthouses will reward you with panoramic views of the sandy beaches below and the magnitude of the Atlantic in front. Ria Formosa Natural Reserve. Standing out on the coastline, a unique ecological system of awe-inspiring biodiversity. This internationally recognised wetland of 18.400 hectares, over 60 Kilometers is continually changing because of the movements of winds, currents, and tides, is an invaluable habitat for wildlife. Visitors can enjoy Ria Formosa throughout the year, by pleasant trails or cruises on the ever calm waters of the lagoon. Wildlife & Native Species. In October during migration time, Eagles, Sparrow Hawks, Falcons, Vultures fly all cross the skies in a impressive display while a staggering 25 different species of birds nest in Sagres´sea cliffs, some on a rare worldwide moment. On the ground, species such as Iberian Lynx (most endangered world’s cat species) or Flamingos, can be appreciated alongside some indigenous species like the Lusitano Horse or the Portuguese Water Dog (native from Algarve, notorious for being highly intelligent & excellent swimmers/divers, due to a membrane between its toes).
STUNNING BEACHES
150 KM OF COASTLINE. SOME OF EUROPE´S MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES.
Some of the best and most beautiful beaches in the entire world are to be found in the Algarve. A destination now awarded twice as “Europe´s Leading Beach Destination”, by the World Travel Awards, a well deserved tribute to this 150km coastline, bathed by the crystal-blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean; beautiful landscapes and unsurpassed natural features of contrasting cliffs and sand dunes. Along its coastline, the Algarve features all types of coves, cliffs and caves, its rocky beaches contrasting with some islands and broad extensions of thin golden sand, spectacular cliff-top vistas and creating a significant amount of beaches. It is essentially its quality and variety that marvel visitors. There are beaches, with stunning natural beauty to suit every taste: luxury beaches equipped with comfortable amenities; long stretches of uninterrupted sand dunes; beaches where the cliffs form grottoes and rock pools that provide pleasant sources of discovery; wild, rugged beaches and open islands offering seclusion and closer contact with Nature; active beaches where water sports/activities & socialising goes hand in hand and an beaches specially equipped for the handicapped. Many of Algarve´s beaches are holders of the prestigious Blue Flag and an amazing 44 beaches belong to the “Accessible Beach Project - Beaches for Everyone”, aimed at providing easy access for those with reduced mobility. Most beaches have restaurants or snack bars and lifeguards, mainly during the summer season, officially from mid May to mid October but access is possible throughout the whole year, as all of them are public beaches and boat cruises are available as long as the ocean indulge us. Hilton Vilamoura Guests benefit from a private concession at beautiful Falesia Beach, only 5 minutes away, with a Beach Club and an all-day courtesy shuttle service. Falesia beach is well known due to it´s combination of 3 km white sand extension and spectacular red cliffs.
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WORLD CLASS GOLF EVERY DAY IS A GOOD DAY FOR GOLF
For long recognized as a worldwide top golfing destination, Vilamoura have contributed towards Algarve's success in being classified, over the years as “Best Golf Destination” by IAGTO, “Europe´s Leading Golf Destination” and “World´s Leading Golf Destination” by World Travel Awards and has established itself as an elite venue by top professionals. It is easy to see why the region has been chosen to hold some of the world’s most prestigious competitions. The favourable climate with more than 300 days of sun per year, allows the golf season to be extended over several months, bringing golf lovers from all over the world to the Algarve for almost half a century. Once here, the excellence on offer in the Algarve with about 36 golf courses of recognized quality is enriched by the plans for the courses, mostly designed by internationally recognised golf-course architects, together with the superb landscapes in which they are located and the tranquillity of its surrounds, satisfying the requirements of the most demanding enthusiasts, both amateurs and professionals alike, solidifying the region as first-rate destination for golf. Irresistible! Vilamoura with the wonderful Oceanico complex dominates the golfing scene and is regarded as a unique European golfing venue, hosting every year Portugal Masters in Ocober. With five 18-hole courses, each of outstanding design and with different levels of difficulty, as well as an elite Golf Academy, Vilamoura tests the skill of professional players to the utmost and provides an exciting challenge for golfing enthusiasts. Hilton Vilamoura is surrounded by such courses, with one at our doorstep & the remainder 4 only 10 minutes away, with a courtesy Golf Shuttle available. With our own PGA Golf Pro on-site, we are ready to welcome new players to the game, share the experience and prepare your Golf Trip and our Golf Simulator adds a casual & friendly competition to your agenda. In Vilamoura, everyday is a good day to play golf.
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HILTON VILAMOURA
ALGARVE´S CENTURIES OF HOSPITALITY & BEAUTY. HILTON´S 95 YEARS OF BEST IN CLASS