New golf experience gives guests the chance to play at Vilamoura’s private Els Club, alongside the historic Old Course

Victoria Golf Resort & Spa in Vilamoura has added a new stay-and-play option for golfers, giving guests the opportunity to play at the exclusive private Els Club Vilamoura as part of a three-night stay.

Managed by Accor, the resort is the only hotel currently offering access to the private club, which was designed by Ernie Els and is the first of its kind in Europe. The package includes one round at The Els Club Vilamoura, along with a round at the Old Course.

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The Els Club Vilamoura opened in July 2025 following a complete redevelopment of the former Victoria Course. The 18-hole championship layout takes a traditional approach to design, with an emphasis on strategy, playability and harmony with the natural surroundings. It is also the first Els Club in Europe and the first private golf club in the Algarve.

Access to the course is limited due to its private status. Non-members are only able to book through the stay-and-play arrangement at Victoria Golf Resort & Spa, in line with the club’s members-first policy.

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Els Club Vilamoura – Photo Jacob Sjoman

General manager Wael Soueid said the new offering reflects changing travel habits, with more guests looking to combine golf with relaxed leisure time, family travel and sightseeing, whilst also seeking golfing experiences that feel more personal and exclusive.

Golf director at The Els Club Vilamoura, Romeu Gonçalves, noted that the collaboration allows a small number of visiting golfers to experience the course whilst preserving the club’s character, service standards and members-first approach.

More information is available via the Victoria Golf Resort & Spa website.

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