Vilamoura Old Course (Dom Pedro Old) Review
The Vilamoura Old Course (also known as Dom Pedro Old) is one of the Algarve’s most iconic layouts. Designed by Frank Pennink and opened in 1969, it has been a staple of British golf trips to the Algarve for over five decades.
Course at a Glance
- Architect: Frank Pennink
- Opened: 1969
- Holes: 18, par 73
- Style: Classic parkland
- Location: Vilamoura, central Algarve
- Distance from Faro Airport: 25 minutes
What Makes the Old Course Special
The Old Course is a classic British-style parkland layout, set among mature pine trees with tight fairways and well-protected greens. Pennink’s design rewards positional play and shot-shaping over raw distance — the kind of strategic golf that British and Irish visitors immediately understand.
Vilamoura itself is the Algarve’s largest golf hub, with six courses within easy distance and a wider resort culture (marina, restaurants, nightlife). The Old Course is the heritage anchor of this complex.
For the Visiting Golfer
The Old Course is essential for:
- Returning British/Irish golfers who first played it decades ago
- First-time Algarve visitors wanting a classic Portuguese experience
- Multi-course Vilamoura trips (Old + Pinhal + Millennium + Vila Sol)
Practical notes: book 2-3 weeks ahead for winter peak. The wider Vilamoura complex makes 4-5 rounds in 3 days easily achievable.
Related Pages
More courses in Algarve
- Álamos Golf Course (18 holes, par 71)
- Alto Golf Pestana Golf Resort (18 holes, par 70)
- Amendoeira Faldo Course (18 holes, par 72)
- Amendoeira O’Connor Jnr. Course (18 holes, par 72)
- Benamor Golf (18 holes, par 71)
➡️ See all golf courses in Algarve.