Here are your Sports & Wellness highlights
MotoGP stays in the Algarve
Portuguese president of the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM), Jorge Viegas, has expressed his “great satisfaction” with the continuation of the MotoGP Portuguese Grand Prix at the Algarve International Racetrack (AIA) in Portimão.
Thus, in 2025, Portugal will host the MotoGP World Championship in Portimão, the Superbike Championship in Portimão and Estoril, and the Junior GP Championship in Estoril.
MotoGP is always credited with bringing millions of euros in revenue to the Algarve by dint of attracting thousands of spectators.
Algarve shines at World Spa Awards
The 10th edition of the World Spa Awards saw two Algarve spas take home coveted national titles.
Vila Vita Spa by Sisley, known as a haven of well-being and tranquillity, was named “Portugal’s Best Resort Spa 2024”.
This is the fifth time the Porches resort’s spa has been recognised with this accolade, further cementing its reputation as an industry leader.
Elsewhere in the Algarve, Pine Cliffs – a Luxury Collection Resort was honoured with the “Portugal’s Best Wellness Retreat 2024” award for the second time.
The hotel’s Serenity – The Art of Well Being spa, regarded as one of the finest spas in Europe, stands out for its portfolio of memorable experiences, in perfect surroundings and personalised programmes that foster health and well-being in the broadest sense.
Albufeira is the 2026 European City of Sport
The official announcement came in November through a letter from ACES-Europe and read by local mayor José Carlos Rolo to roaring applause during the municipal sports gala at the Palácio de Congressos do Algarve.
“We have been working on this bid for nearly four years, maintaining our support of clubs and associations, investing in sports infrastructure and encouraging formal and informal sports activities,” Rolo said during his speech.
European City of Sport is a title awarded by ACES Europe (European Capitals and Cities of Sport Federation) to recognize cities that excel in promoting sports, physical activity, and healthy lifestyles among residents.
Coming soon
Scheduled for opening in early 2025, The Spa by Viceroy at Ombria Resort, nestled among the hills of Loulé, is set to offer a serene retreat overlooking the gardens.
The space is inspired by Algarve traditions and is committed to well-being for a healthy body, a sound mind and a peaceful spirit.
The Spa by Viceroy will comprise eight treatment rooms, three suites and outdoor cabanas, an indoor pool, a private outdoor pool, a Turkish bath, a Finnish sauna, a herbal and salt steam room, as well as a beauty salon.
Golf, art and charity
On January 19, Monte Rei Golf & Country Club, in Vila Nova de Cacela, will host the Art & Charity Pro-Am Invitational to celebrate artistic talent and promote a noble cause.
The event will bring together 20 of the region’s leading golf professionals, who will compete alongside their teams of amateurs.
In addition to the competition, the event highlights the presence of recognised local artists, including Luísa Aleixo Santos, Virgílio Raposo, Arlindo Arez and Teresa Sofia Paulino, whose works will be on display.
Part of the event also includes the sale of works by organiser and artist Valérie Londot, with funds going to support local charity projects focussed on the welfare of people and animals.
For padel addicts
A new hotel is coming to life in the Vale Pedras area of Albufeira, which will also be home to a padel club.
The hotel is scheduled to open in early 2025 on a soft opening basis, and the Clube Padel Blue will have six indoor courts, allowing paddle enthusiasts to practise all year round, regardless of the weather conditions.
With a total investment of around €2 million, this new development aims to stand out in the region and combat seasonality.
Scents of the Algarve
Following the success of its perfume and soaps, Leme has added a shower gel (€17.90) and moisturising lotion (€18.90) to its Algarve 1434 range.
Both new products maintain the citrus floral aromas (orange blossom, orange and rockrose) characteristic of the Algarve.
The shower gel is made with panthenol to moisturise the skin and leave it soft, and orange extract to give a feeling of freshness. In the lotion, jojoba oil helps prevent skin ageing, and cocoa butter boasts antioxidant and nourishing properties.
The shower gel is available in 500ml, and the body lotion in 300ml. Both products also come in a 100ml version, ideal for travellers.
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