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Vilamoura has just set a new benchmark for golf tourism in Europe. The Victoria Golf Resort & Spa, managed by Accor, has officially launched an unprecedented Stay & Play package. This offer grants guests exclusive access to the private The Els Club Vilamoura, merging world-class sport with premium hospitality.

Announced in January 2026, this partnership establishes the resort as the only hotel where guests can stay and play at The Els Club, marking a significant shift in the luxury golf segment.

Designed for discerning golfers who value privacy and quality, this exclusive offer requires no minimum stay (any guest booking one night at Victoria Golf Resort & Spa, Managed by Accor can now book a tee time at The Els Club)

The Els Club Vilamoura: A European First

Officially opened by Ernie Els in July 2025, The Els Club Vilamoura is the first of its kind in Europe. The 18-hole championship course is a complete reinterpretation of the former Victoria Course, reflecting Ernie Els’ vision of combining traditional strategic demands with the stunning surrounding landscape.

The club’s international profile is further elevated by hosting the Portugal Invitational (Champions Tour) from July 31 to August 2, solidifying Vilamoura’s status as a premier global golf destination.

“Guests increasingly value highly exclusive experiences. This collaboration provides access to one of the most prestigious private clubs in Europe,” says Wael Soueid, General Manager of Victoria Golf Resort & Spa.

Unmatched Exclusivity and Membership Standards

As a private club, The Els Club Vilamoura maintains a “members-first” policy. To safeguard the exclusivity of the experience, only a limited number of tee times are made available to non-members staying at the Victoria Golf Resort & Spa.

Romeu Gonçalves, Director of Golf at The Els Club, emphasizes that this partnership aligns with the club’s philosophy: “This allows a very limited number of visiting golfers to enjoy the course while maintaining the high standards of service and exclusivity that characterize The Els Club internationally.”

Vilamoura: A Year-Round Lifestyle Destination

Beyond the fairways, Victoria Golf Resort & Spa offers a comprehensive luxury lifestyle. The resort features:

• 260 Rooms and Suites: Elegant designs for short or extended stays.

• Refined Dining: Three restaurants and four bars.

• Wellness & Leisure: A world-class spa, four outdoor pools, tennis courts, and a dedicated Kids Club.

Located just minutes from the award-winning Vilamoura Marina, golden beaches, and the historic charm of Loulé, the resort is the perfect base for both passionate golfers and leisure seekers alike.

Portugal continues to shine on the global luxury stage, with Condé Nast Johansens selecting more than 40 standout hotels and wellness spaces across the country for its latest annual guide.

From the north to the Algarve and across the islands of Madeira and the Azores, the list shows a destination that combines elegance, authenticity, and a strong sense of place. Portugal is in second place in the world in terms of the number of suggestions; only the United Kingdom is ahead, which clearly shows that the country is becoming more appealing to travellers who know what they want.

The chosen places include 33 high-end hotels in some of Portugal’s best areas. Lisbon and the Tagus Valley are in the lead, with 15 suggested places, such as restaurants and wellness centres. The Palácio Estoril Hotel Golf & Wellness is a very famous name because it combines history with a focus on health. It’s a place where old-fashioned warmth and modern comfort come together, making it a good choice for people who care about both ambience and comfort.

Further south, the Alentejo adds a quieter, more soulful layer to the list, with four hotels that are praised for their character and connection to the landscape. Next is the Algarve, where high-end living is the main focus. Condé Nast Johansens gave a special “gold star” to the Tivoli group, which is part of Minor Hotels, recognising the hotels: Tivoli Carvoeiro, Marina Vilamoura, and Alvor. In addition, Serenity – The Art of Well Being at Pine Cliffs Resort was honoured for its spa offering, reinforcing the Algarve’s image as a destination where relaxation and refinement go hand in hand.

The islands also play a key role in this luxury trip. In the Azores, both located on São Miguel Island, Solar dos Cantos Botanic House & Garden and the iconic Terra Nostra Garden Hotel were chosen, highlighting a blend of nature, tradition, and understated elegance. In Madeira, five luxury hotels won recommendations, confirming the island’s long-standing reputation for timeless hospitality and natural beauty.

This recognition from Condé Nast Johansens is more than a list of names. It is a powerful statement about Portugal as a destination that provides emotion, quality, and memorable experiences. Whether it is a seaside resort, a historic palace hotel, or a tranquil island retreat, each location offers something that goes beyond accommodation. Our Portugal golf holidays collection shows the possibilities for those planning a fancy getaway with great golf courses close by.