The Algarve is the Beverly Hills of Southern Portugal. Exploring Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo, and Almancil – the Golden Triangle of wealth is guaranteed to have you rubbing shoulders with celebs in no time.
Thanks to its all-around sunny weather and beautiful rugged coastlines, the Algarve has been one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations. Famous for its seaside town, Portugal’s coastal spotlight is a land of contrast, filled with ravenous prosperity.
Within imposing 14th-century walls, the centre is a maze of winding cobbled streets home to endless amounts of butter sands and sizzling fresh fish. But down the palm-lined Avenida and across the bridge are two marinas, where a wealth of bars and cafes provide a popular meeting point for the town’s well-established.
However, this popular spot is not just made up of one point but an entire shape. This is the Golden Triangle. It is an unofficial term for the mini region that encompasses resorts like Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Labo, the two most prestigious resorts on the Algarve.
These two resorts are like the Beverly Hills of the Algarve: both are known for their decadent mansions, perfectly-manicured lawns, and esteemed golf courses. What makes up the third option has been debatable in the area for some time. Some claim that the perfect fit lies in the small town of Almancil, while others say it’s the five-star hotel in Vilamoura.
But sibling rivalry aside, besides a few celebrities like Cristiano Ronaldo, José Mourinho, and maybe Salvador Sobral living in the area, a host of other celebrities and A-listers have been spotted soaking up the sun within the Golden Triangle.
So, if you plan on joining the inner circle of luxury, let’s take a look at each hotspot:
It Has To Start Somewhere, So Why Not Quinta do Lago?
Quinta do Lago is more than just a star point on any map; it’s a lifestyle, a dream, and a playground for the rich and famous. Located in Southern Portugal, set by the Ria Formosa Natural Park, you could say that this prime hub offers luxurious living in a natural setting.
The award-winning golf resort is a favourite among celebrities, a summer haven with endless beaches and unique offerings and is a naturally private setting for those looking to escape. This is probably why sports stars flock to the resort for some well-deserved R&R in their off-season.
You will run into Wayne Rooney or Steven Gerrard, sporting icons like Cristiano Ronaldo, and golfers like Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. Other celebrities like Niall Horan, Ronan Keating and Madonna can often be spotted roaming around the sun beds.
The Algarve, Its Love For Golf, And The Vale do Lobo
Vale do Lobo – a destination rich in experience & the best of nature is a space where soft golden sands and lush green pine forests set the stunning ambience for a perfect sundowner.
This space is home to a life-loving community of villa, townhouse and apartment owners, and international holidaymakers. Prices for houses here start at $10 million or more.
Almancil Or The Docking Station For Your Superyacht In Vilamoura
Home to Michelin Star Restaurant Henrique Leis, as well as plenty of high-end estate agents, Almancil is quite a simple Algarve town. The triangle includes this location within its borders due to the proximity of quality restaurants and stylish stores that adorn the market town.
Vilamoura, on the other hand, offers something different. Here the Portuguese charm is replaced with pristine surroundings that have turned it into one of the largest resort complexes in Europe.
The purpose-built Vilamoura is known for its luxury yachts, hotels and restaurants. It’s a vibrant place to visit and is prevalent amongst the British. It is home to at least six golf courses, the largest marina in the country, and stunning beaches.
Lined with top-notch cafes, five-star restaurants, and a banging casino, there is always plenty to do in Vilamoura. The Faro International Airport is a mere twenty-minute drive away, so you’ll have access to plenty of riches in the Algarve.