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Someone
such as me, who isn't really into
the arts per se, the theme of Art
and Nature at the Vila Sol properties
can be a little lost at first. I found
that after I'd spent an entire day
at the resort – most of it on
the golf course – it was only
as I was retracing my steps and that
I passed the wall-sized mural I hadn't
noticed when I'd first checked in.
"Oh, that's nice," I thought.
The wall-sized mural in the hotel
lobby was created by famous Portuguese
artist Jose de Guimaraes and represents
the "Portuguese Sea" that
through history provided food to local
villages and was a link to other colonies.
The
"Art & Nature" concept
is also evident on the golf course
itself, where you will find yourself
admiring rather interesting and large
local art pieces that blend into many
of the well-manicured tee boxes. Such
a unique notion!
Knowing
this golf course had twice-hosted
the Portuguese Open, I had a pretty
good indication of the top quality
golf that I was in for. Well-known
European architect Donald Steel used
all that Mother Nature provided him
as he carved out three distinct 9-hole
loops appropriately named Prime, Challenge
and Prestige, all offering up their
own unique challenges!
Maintenance
of the golf course is second to none.
Pride of ownership is shown on the
course and throughout the complex.
After playing so many of the courses
in the Carolina's, one does not expect
to play Oceanside courses with much
in the way of elevation changes. Although
the Vila Sol courses are only a couple
of long drives from the ocean, you
will find that there a number of holes
that provide significant elevation
changes with the most dramatic being
on the par 5, 6th hole on the Prime
Course. I'd have to say this was my
favorite hole!
Looking
to improve your game? Look no further!
The Vila Sol Golf Academy can customize
a program to suit your needs. The
Academy, located just 300 meters from
the Clubhouse, is equipped with swing
analyzer video, Explanar Golf Training
system, four putting and chipping
greens, two bunkers, and - of course
- a driving range. Lessons are available
in several languages.
Algarve's
Vila Sol Resort is a family friendly
place, too. If you have your children
with you and find you need some time
to yourself, take advantage of the
Kids Club and Babysitting services
that are available at the resort.
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