Pestana Vila Sol Golf Course

Few resort courses on the Algarve carry quite the competitive pedigree of Vila Sol. Designed by Donald Steel and opened in 1991, the course built its reputation quickly, hosting the Portuguese Open on the European Tour multiple times through the 1990s and early 2000s and producing finishes that cemented its standing among the region's serious layouts. Steel's design leans on the natural cork oak and umbrella pine woodland that covers much of the property, creating a course that feels more enclosed and strategic than the open, sun-baked tracks common along this stretch of coastline.

The routing rewards accurate driving above all else. Fairways thread through dense tree corridors, and the greens — undulating and well-protected — demand a proper approach rather than a simple bump-and-run. Water comes into play on several holes, adding bite to a back nine that closes with real authority.

Vilamoura itself is the Algarve's most developed golf destination, with a marina, resort hotels, and several courses within easy reach. Vila Sol sits at the upper end of that local hierarchy — a track that respects the serious golfer without excluding the resort visitor.