Great Value

Vilamoura — Millennium Course

Vilamoura, Algarve · Designed by Martin Hawtree (2000) · Est. 2000

The Millennium Course is the youngest of the Vilamoura layouts, designed by Martin Hawtree and opened in 2000 on ground that shares some of the old Pinhal pines but opens out into a more modern, American-influenced test. Where Pinhal is tight and shaded, Millennium is broader and brighter, with water hazards, generous bunkering and rolling, contoured fairways.

At par 72 over around 6,150 metres, it is the most forgiving and enjoyable of the resort's courses for the mid-handicapper — wide enough to swing freely, but with enough water and strategic bunkering to keep the better player interested. Several holes still run through the mature umbrella pines, giving a pleasant contrast between the open, watery stretches and the classic Algarve pine corridors.

With its accessible character and central Vilamoura location, Millennium is the ideal course for a relaxed round or a group of mixed abilities.

Holes worth knowing

1The water holes — Hawtree brought lakes and modern hazards to Vilamoura here, giving Millennium a brighter, more strategic feel than its pine-shaded neighbours.
2The pine corridors — several holes still thread through the old umbrella pines, a lovely contrast with the open, watery stretches.

Highlights

The newest of the Vilamoura courses (2000)
Modern Martin Hawtree design
Water hazards and rolling, open fairways
The most forgiving Vilamoura course

Good to know

→Millennium is the most forgiving Vilamoura course — the widest fairways of the three, ideal for a relaxed round or a mixed-ability group.
→It shares the site with Pinhal and the Old Course, so a multi-round Vilamoura package (three or more rounds) unlocks a useful discount.
→The Vilamoura marina and its restaurants are minutes away — the social hub of this part of the Algarve.
→Combine it with the tougher Old Course and characterful Pinhal for a varied three-course stay without ever moving hotel.
→Faro Airport is 25 minutes, so Vilamoura works even for a short long-weekend golf break.