What You Can Expect When Living in Vale do Lobo
Aside from the endless array of beautiful sandy beaches in the stunning ‘Golden triangle’ of the Algarve (and Faro airport just a 25-minute drive away, these are some of the things we think new residents will love about sublime Vale de Lobo community:
1. The Great Ocean and Royal Golf Courses
One great attraction of living in Vale do Lobo has to be golf. With a range of golf courses within easy reach, it really is a haven for golfers.
Boasting not just one, but two 18-hole championship golf courses that hosted the Portuguese Open, (part of the PGA European Tour), in 2002 and 2003. These world-renowned courses hold regular tournaments and competitions and enjoy incredible ocean views, a clubhouse, golf academy and are surrounded by ever-popular restaurants serving incredible cuisine.
It’s a perfect way to spend a day on one of the endlessly sunny Algarve days!
2. The Wonderful Restaurants & Cuisine
With a huge range of restaurants, Vale do Lobo really does deliver on the culinary front!
You could sample the beautiful Bamboo restaurant serving all of your favourite Asian fusion cuisines in the surroundings of a tranquil garden.
If you’re after something a little more exotic, perhaps try the Oriental Chinese restaurant in the Praça of Vale do Lobo.
If you are a fish lover then try Sandbanks Fish restaurant also in the Praça of Vale do Lobo which overlooks the azure-blue Atlantic Ocean, good tip – also serves the best English breakfast around.
For a truly international flavour try Monty’s Restaurant Bar. A great evening food menu followed by the best entertainment around when the eating has finished.
If you are craving the Great British Friday Favourite in Fish’n’Chips call into Yorkies in Almancil. Offering eat-in or take out you will find all your chip shop favourites here.
3. The Café Culture
The Vale de Lobo community is well-known for its wonderful café culture, where the ease of travel between cafes is punctuated by the stunning Atlantic views.
If coffee is your thing, then we’d recommend trying Well Vale do Lobo, a café bar in the daytime and restaurant at night that overlooks the beach, however, we can’t guarantee you’ll want to move anywhere else afterwards!
Another cafe restaurant with a spectacular golf view is Koko which can be found near the Quinta do Lago Driving range and golf course. Serving breakfast and lunch in the outdoor seating area. They also have a small kids’ playground to keep the kids busy whilst the parents finish their food.
4. Hiking Trails for those who love a more Active Lifestyle
If the beautiful golden sandy beaches are getting a little too much, then we think the lush green pine forests will provide ample shade from the sun for those activity seekers.
The Ludo trail is located nearby and offers stunning views of the lagoons where you’ll often see groups of pink flamingos making their way across the salt plains. Long-legged birds (such as the grey Heron and the Black-winged Stilt) can also be seen in the serene atmosphere.
If cycling is more like your thing, there is a social cycle ride held regularly where you’d be more than welcome to participate!
5. Shopping, Shopping, and More Shopping
With an array of local shopping malls that would make any serious shopper jump with glee (such as the Buganvilia Plaza, Vale do Lobo Shopping, and Quinta Shopping to name just a few). Vale do Lobo has everything you’ll need to look your best, enjoy your days and relax in the luxurious surroundings.
With easy access to several supermarkets within 10-15 minutes and indeed one on-site in the resort itself. If your missing your favourite English bits and pieces there is a British store in Food & Co, importers of Tesco products, to get all those Great British favourites
If the larger shopping centres are more your style there are 3 within 30 minutes drive. The nearest and our recommendation would be Mar Shopping near Loule. With Ikea, Legoland indoor shopping and an outdoor designer outlet it really is the place to shop.
The food court will keep even the hungriest happy and the cinema, which shows the latest movies, is a great place to relax afterwards. Pets are welcome and there are lots to entertain the kids.
6. The Relaxing Health Spas
If it’s the ultimate relaxation you’re after, then you’ve come to the right place! With a multitude of different health and wellness centres to choose from, the resort boasts a level in keeping with the locality.
We’re particularly fond of the Ria park hotel’s spa, and the Vale de Lobo’s Royal Spa wellness centre. With its devotion to relaxation, the Royal Spa is where you’ll find therapeutic treatments to rejuvenate and boost your natural beauty in tranquil surroundings.
Another recommended visit is to the Hilton Hotel in Vilamoura where you can find the 7 Spa. Separated from the main hotel it is dedicated to treatments and relaxation. A day at 7 will leave you so relaxed and feeling young again!
7. Great Schooling for the Kids
If you are planning on moving out with your family, including the kids, then you will need to know about the local schools.
Thankfully there is a marvellous international school at the Algarve Tennis Centre just outside Vale do Lobo. Catering for kids from preschool to high school is a great place to educate your children.
Another International school, Nobel, can be found nearby Almancil and a little further away is The Vilamoura International School, so plenty of choices.
If you are thinking of throwing your kids in the deep end and starting them in the local public schools, you can find a selection in the nearby areas of Almancil and Quarteira.
8. Tennis & Paddle Everywhere!
If you are a tennis fanatic then have no worries with several high-class centres in the Vale do Lobo area. The closest is right in the centre of Vale do Lobo.
Just outside you will find the Algarve Tennis & Fitness centre which also boasts the Algarve’s only Foot-golf course. They also have plenty of fitness programs available for those who want to get into shape, an outdoor swimming pool and a relaxing cafe.
Probably the best sports centre in the Algarve, The Campus, can be found in nearby Quinta do Lago. It is a large complex with many outdoor and indoor activities. Full-size football pitch, well-equipped gym, outdoor swimming pool, running track and much more.
9. Water Sports in the Sun
One thing the Algarve always has is sunshine meaning outdoor activities are a breeze. If you are a water sports lover then you will be spoilt for choice. Being on the ocean’s doorstep whether you enjoy sailing or jet skiing the sea is your oyster.
There are many water sports centres in and around Vale do Lobo offering various activities including diving schools, sailing centres, surfing, paragliding and of course who’s to stop you if you are a swimming enthusiast?
Of course, if it’s a more relaxing time you are looking for then the cruises up and down the beautiful Algarve coast are a must. The dolphin watching and caves cruise is a real favourite with the kids and the romantic sunset cruise is a relaxing time for the adults.
10. Who can Forget the Beaches
Last but not least we have to mention the beaches! You will be spoiled for choice between some of the best beaches in the Algarve. With beautiful golden sands and calm crystal clear waters, many are blue flag beaches and are mostly supervised by the lifeguards who are always on call nearby.
Safe for kids and with plenty of room for them to play. If you pick a spot near one of the many kiosks or beachfront restaurants you will not have too far to walk for lunch or a few of your favourite tipples.
They also offer a great walking trek. With a stretch of beach that starts in Quarteira and spreads as far as Faro Island which is around 10km, it makes a great early morning walk!
To Summarise our Thoughts
In summary, we think you’ll love the Vale de Lobo community for its calming mindfulness experiences, the finest cuisine, relaxing activity, vibrant culture and friendly vibes to give you the ultimate grounding!
If you are looking to move to Vale do Lobo in the Algarve why not get in contact with one of our very professional team members who will help you with any information you may require?
Mark McLoughlin: A Passionate Explorer of Algarve’s Rich Heritage
For over 20 years, I’ve called the Algarve my home, immersing myself in its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and deep-rooted history. My passion lies in sharing this remarkable region’s unique beauty and stories through writing, photography, and helpful guides for those who live here or dream of making the Algarve their home.
As a Level 10 Google Local Guide, I’ve contributed extensively to showcasing the Algarve’s gems, from hidden beaches to historical landmarks, helping locals and travellers alike discover the best of what this southern paradise offers.