Summary:
Destination: Vilamoura & Albufeira
Date: May 2018
Group Size: 20
Key Activities: Golf, Karting & Nightlife
Review:
For several years now the Algarve has been one of the best destinations to celebrate stag or hen dos. A magnificent climate where it rarely rains (the region is known for having over 300 days of sun a year), beautiful beaches that look straight out of fairy tales, a vibrant nightlife, friendly people and cheap prices make the Algarve a paradise for those looking to celebrate their last days of freedom. If you are thinking about organizing a stag or hen do, but do not know where to organize it, then this article is definitely for you.
British visitor Ben Wheeler, did not hesitate to choose the region for a bachelor party that had approximately 20 people between the ages of 19 and 60. “We were looking for a place where we could play golf and the Algarve is the ideal place for that,” he explained. In fact, the southern region of Portugal is visited every year by thousands of professional and amateur golfers who come looking for challenging yet enjoyable courses with impeccable conditions and where the absence of rain allows you to enjoy the sport during most of the year.
It was for this reason that the group chose to stay in Vilamoura at a golf resort. Ben had already been to Vilamoura and knew that as well as immaculate golf courses there was relaxed and fun atmosphere in the town, which was what he intended for the bachelor party.
Vilamoura’s 6 golf courses have been distinguished with several awards, and contributed significantly towards Portugal winning the 2017 and 2018 World’s Top Golf Destination at the World Golf Awards, which is proof of the unique conditions you can enjoy when playing there. Vilamoura also has one of the most distinguished casinos in Europe with live music and dance shows, villas, tourist apartments and night clubs.
The stag do group arrived in the Algarve in May 2018. Despite this year’s rainy and cold weather that “attacked” the bachelor party with two thunderstorms, the weekend was actually hot and sunny. In fact, Ben assures the group was perfectly capable of playing all the golf they intended. This is why Spring and Autumn (right after summer) are the recommended seasons for stag or hen parties in the Algarve. During these seasons it hardly rains, the days are usually sunny, and the region is less busy (which is very useful when you’re a large group trying to find space in a bar or restaurant!).
In addition to golf, the group tried go-karting at Albufeira marina which was a lot of fun. They booked the track just for their group and made the most of it with 2 x 30 minute races so they could get some (friendly!) competition going on the tight twists and turns of this indoor 400m track.
For a night out, in addition to Vilamoura, Ben recommends the Old Town of Albufeira (about 15-20 minutes by taxi from Vilamoura), where the great atmosphere and the friendliness of the people will make you feel at home. On the other hand, he was less keen on The Strip in Albufeira, where he believes the locals to be less tolerant of the thousands of tourists who drop by the bars every year.
Ben responds affirmatively when asked if he would recommend the Algarve as a destination for a stag or hen do, strongly recommending that people visit Albufeira’s old town, both to go out at night and to eat as there is a great range of restaurants. Thanks for the advice Ben we will give it a go!
If you are interested in organizing a stag or hen do in the Algarve, why not contact Algarve Fun where a team of experienced professionals will be happy to assist you with any questions you may have.
