While the Old Course Vilamoura grabs most of the attention, I'd argue the Millennium is the one plenty of golfers end up talking about afterwards. Opened in 2000 and designed by Martin Hawtree, it's matured nicely, sitting comfortably in Vilamoura's rolling terrain and pine woodland without feeling tight or overly punitive.
You'll find it in the heart of the Algarve, just a few minutes from Vilamoura's marina, beach and hotels, so it's an easy one to slot into a trip alongside the headline acts. If you're planning a week with a mixed-ability group, that's a big tick.
The Millennium's strength is balance. There's enough width from the tee to keep mid-handicap golfers in the game, but the smarter lines into the greens and well-placed bunkering reward anyone who thinks their way round. Approach play matters, with plenty of subtly shaped greens that can make position more important than pure power.
The back nine brings a bit more bite, with water coming into play on a handful of holes, so commitment is key when you're attacking flags. All told, it's a polished, enjoyable test and a great shout if you want one of the best courses in the area without the feeling you're being beaten up for every slight miss.
Who is this for? Golfers building a Vilamoura itinerary who want a quality round close to the marina and hotels, with enough strategy to keep everyone interested.
Who is it best for? Mixed-ability groups and mid to low handicappers who enjoy thoughtful risk-reward holes and greens that make you earn your score.
