Golfers plan Vilamoura trips earlier and spend more when they do | News

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Vilamoura has long been one of Europe’s most notable golf holiday destinations for golf clubs and large groups of golfing friends. And as demand for organized group travel continues to grow, one trend is becoming clear: those who plan ahead make the most of the destination.

Provider of group golf holidays, Glencor golf holidayshas analyzed its booking data and found that people plan golf holidays in Vilamoura significantly earlier than those traveling to other destinations, with an average of 212 days between their initial inquiry and the date of travel.

The same data also shows that Vilamoura has one of the highest average booking values. This suggests that golfers are not simply booking earlier to secure availability; they use the extra planning time to create more luxurious trips, often for larger groups, special occasions and premium golf experiences.

Why are golfers more likely to book holidays in Vilamoura?
There is a growing demand for group travel within the golf holiday sector, with the typical ‘lads abroad’ trips no longer the norm. Golf vacations are increasingly linked to group celebrations such as milestone birthdays, retirement trips, reunions and golf enthusiast gatherings.

Golf clubs, corporate groups and large groups of friends have more factors to consider when planning their golf holiday to Portugal. They must consider the budgets, abilities, preferences and travel requirements of each member of their party before finalizing the booking.

Naturally, this requires a longer planning period.

When traveling to popular destinations such as Vilamoura, failure to plan ahead could result in your groups failing to arrange:
• Consecutive start times
• Suitable accommodation
• Reservations for evening dinners
• Transfers
• Preferred flight times and departure airport

The fact is: the Algarve, and Vilamoura in particular, rewards prepared travelers with the best opportunities. Golfers who book early will benefit from a greater choice of accommodation, access to premium tee times and more opportunities to make the most of their time in Portugal.

Why early planners are spending more on golf holidays in Vilamoura
Glencor booking data shows that Vilamoura attracts higher value bookings than many other golf destinations in Portugal.

But golfers pay more for the same type of holiday. In many cases it reflects the kind of travel Vilamoura is known for: larger groups, luxury hotels, carefully planned start times and itineraries built around some of the Algarve’s most sought-after golf courses.

For golf clubs, corporate groups and milestone celebrations, Vilamoura is a trip worth doing right. Groups are not just looking for the cheapest possible outing. They want the right hotel, the right location, the right courses and starting times so that the whole group can enjoy the trip together.

The best hotels in Vilamoura are fully booked early. Many groups choose well-located, higher quality accommodation as they book important annual trips, company trips and milestone celebrations. Golfers looking to secure premium accommodation in prime locations should book well in advance.

And well-prepared golfers can take advantage of early booking discounts at the following hotels:

Dom Pedro Portobelo
Located right on Vilamoura’s beautiful beach, the 4-star Dom Pedro Portobelo has long been popular with golfers looking to stay on the marina and in close proximity to some of the region’s most popular golf courses.

Our stays at Dom Pedro Portobelo also include:
• Group discounts for parties of 8 or more people
• Breakfast included
• Free transfers from the hotel to the golf courses
• Discounts on 5 golf courses in Vilamoura
• Apartment style accommodation, ideal for groups
• Early bird offers for golfers who book their trip 120+ days in advance

Hyatt Regency Vilamoura Algarve
The Hyatt Regency Vilamoura Algarve is a luxury four-star resort, perfectly located in the heart of Vilamoura’s golfing paradise, just a short stroll from the iconic marina and pristine beaches of the Algarve.

Our stays at the Hyatt Regency also include:
• Group discounts for parties of 8 or more people
• Breakfast included
• Free golf shuttle bus
• Discounts on 5 golf courses in Vilamoura
• Possibility to upgrade to the Old Course Vilamoura for an additional charge
• Early bird offers for golfers who book their trip 120+ days in advance

Book your start times in advance to get the most out of your trip
Vilamoura is one of Portugal’s most prestigious golfing locations, offering an unrivaled collection of championship courses, all within minutes of each other.
For large groups, golf club trips and corporate groups, booking tee times in advance is the best way to guarantee that your whole party can tee off in succession and play the courses together.

How far in advance do you need to book?
The larger the group, the sooner the better. Tee times at Vilamoura’s most popular golf courses are booked months in advance, so to create the best itinerary for your trip, early booking is essential.

Popular golf courses in Vilamoura that you should book in advance include:
• Laguna Vilamoura
The Laguna course’s wide fairways and forgiving layout make it ideal for mixed-ability groups. The variety and scenery also keep the rounds fun and competitive without being too demanding.

• Millennium Vilamoura
The Millenium course is a gently competitive course, which is great for clubs, corporate groups and friends who want a social golf experience that still offers a challenge.

• Old Course Vilamoura
Affectionately known as the ‘grand old lady’ of golf in the Algarve, the Old Course offers a championship experience with undeniable historic charm. For experienced golfers looking for an unforgettable trip, the Old Course is a must.

• Pinhal Vilamoura
The pine tree-lined fairways of the Pinhal course are popular with groups who enjoy playing more challenging rounds. Its height, strategic design and beautiful views make it one of the most popular courses in the Algarve.

•Els Club Vilamoura
Els Club is one of the most prestigious golf courses in Europe. Combining technical challenge with elegant design, the course is a bucket list destination for many professional and amateur golfers.

Why golf groups need more attention than ever
A golf club, corporate group or milestone birthday party requires a lot more planning than a few friends traveling for a golf outing.

They have to agree dates, secure enough suitable rooms, arrange transfers, collect deposits and book tee times close enough that everyone can play on the same course on the same day.
That’s why early planning can make such a difference. Booking ahead gives groups a better chance of securing accommodation, courses and times that suit the whole party, rather than building the trip around what’s left. It also gives the organizer more time to confirm numbers, manage payments and make minor adjustments before availability tightens.

Vilamoura rewards golfers who book in advance
Vilamoura remains one of Europe’s premier golf destinations and there is evidence that golfers who organize trips earlier are making the most of their time there. Those who plan ahead enjoy the greatest choice, more luxurious accommodation options, excellent tee times and access to some of the Algarve’s most sought-after golf experiences.
The higher average spend in Glencor’s Vilamoura bookings reflects these opportunities. Golfers don’t just book a simple holiday. They plan bigger, better organized and more memorable trips because they have excellent access to the best options, and they know that Vilamoura is a destination worth experiencing in luxury.

Plan your trip to Vilamoura
At Glencor Golf Holidays we have over 20 years of experience booking tailor-made golf holidays for groups of all sizes. We plan trips around your dates, budget, desired destination and ideal itinerary. All you have to do is get your group together and practice your swings.