The Els Club Vilamoura

The Els Club Vilamoura is the private members' course created from a redesign of the former Dom Pedro Victoria course, with the new layout designed by Ernie Els. The 18-hole championship course combines strategic play with signature water features and is described on the club's own site as the World's Best Private Golf Course, alongside a 2025 award shield the club displays for the same title. Membership is by proposal from a Founder Member or by invitation from the club. Beyond the course, facilities include the 261 Bar & Restaurant, a members' clubhouse, a high-end retail boutique and concierge services. General public tee times are not available: the only route in for non-members is a limited guest package for those staying at the five-star Victoria Golf Resort & Spa next door, which requires a minimum three-night stay, includes at least one round on the Old Course Vilamoura, and can only be booked 24 hours in advance. Guest rounds include a shared buggy or trolley, and a forecaddie is mandatory for a four-ball at EUR 75, paid in cash between players (cash is not accepted inside the clubhouse itself). The club sits within the wider Vilamoura Golf estate, with guests of the Victoria Golf Resort & Spa also able to arrange rounds on the Old Course Vilamoura.