Vilamoura - The Algarve - Resorts Guide

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Overview: Vilamoura, an ambitious purpose-built resort on the central Algarve coast, is one of Europe's largest privately developed tourist havens, offering holidaymakers every form of sport, entertainment and amenity imaginable. The resort is built around a magnificent 1000-berth marina, alongside which are preserved Roman ruins that were unearthed during construction back in the 1960s. The southern border is host to a long, sandy beach, which is lined with quality hotels, self-catering apartments, numerous restaurants and shops, and a host of leisure facilities including a casino. Further inland villas nestle in lush gardens between the golf courses. Vilamoura, which means 'Village of the Moors', is designed for pure pleasure for everyone, of any age or orientation. Nature has enhanced the resort with a temperate sunny climate and beautifully landscaped surroundings. Development has been environmentally friendly and tasteful.

Shopping: Shopping arcades are an integral part of the Vilamoura development, packed with designer boutiques, shoe stores, sport's outlets, perfumeries, tobacconists, jewellers and plenty more. Those wanting to seek out the local colour can make an expedition to the Saturday market in nearby Loule.

Restaurants: From fine dining to fast food, Vilamoura has it all in dozens of restaurants, coffee bars, ice cream parlours and cafes scattered throughout the resort. For Chinese try the Golden Ming on Marina Plaza, or opt for perfect pizza and pasta at the Casa del Forno on the Largo do Cinema. Rosa's Cantina is the place to go for authentic Mexican food including enchiladas, tacos and burritos, washed down with icy cold Margaritas. For superb seafood opt for the Ostra D'Ouro Grill at the marina.