We have been coming to FSV for many years, about 20, normally in Oct but occasionally at Easter. We have only once had poor weather. It is really well run, the stafff are very friendly and helpful and the setting is just superb; it is as nice as it looks on the photos. One thing we have noticed is the staff are pretty much the same people year after year, which in my book is a good thing and shows they are happy.
Apartments. 2 bed apts are a good size. The double has an en suite including a jacuzzzi bath/shower and the twin has sole use of the other bathroom with very smart walk in shower room. Big lounge and well equipped kitchen: microwave, cooker, two fridges (one for booze of course), dishwasher, coffee machine etc. also has washing machine, tumble dryer, iron etc in cupboard. Balcony with table and chairs ideal for breakfast on the patio!
Pools. Upper pool is quieter and lower pool has beach like slope into the pool. I have never found either pool warm, even in the height of summer. In my case a VERY deep breath but once you are in it IS refreshing. Lots of people use them, so it might just be me, but they all go "aaaaaah!" when they get in. Lots of sun beds available. Drinks and ice creams available by poolside. Indoor pool much warmer and indoor whirlpool very warm.
Clubhouse. Nicely decorated and nice leather tall backed seats round tables. Happy hour each night with local cocktail of the day. Also very tasty plater of nibbles (free) per night. Squash courts, gym, table tennis, sauna avail.
Eating. Resort restaurant OK but if you want to try local food there are some restaurants in next door Old Village; they get better the further away from the resort. There are shed loads in Vilamoura (15 min walk or short taxi). Even round the Marina they are reasonably priced. Best two? Columbuss on the far side is the horseshoe (opposite Dom Marina GolF hotel) or La Cabana in Quartera (they provide a free pick up and drop off from FSV - just ask the desk to book them). Also there is a good, reasonably priced mini market in the Old Village -ideal for warm rolls for breakfast.
Golf. FSV is right beside Pinhal (back gate is beside 9th green). Sadly Pinhal is the least good course and even with the FSV discount it is not cheap golf - €75-100 per round but most other courses are impressive. FSV has its own Dir of Golf -good man with a good teaching reputation.
Worst aspects. The beds ARE firm and the waistline takes a hammering!
Overall always a very relaxing resort -we always look forward to going. I would, without doubt recommend it to anyone!!
- Vilamoura Four Seasons
