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A golf holiday guide to Caleta de Fuste, Fuerteventura

April 29, 2026April 29, 2026emilycotterhill1

by Scott Crowe, Villa Plus Contributor

Few destinations combine year-round sunshine, high-quality golf courses and laid-back coastal charm quite like Caleta de Fuste. Located on the east coast of Fuerteventura, it benefits from the consistent warmth blown westwards from the Sahara desert, making it one of the premier spots for a golf holiday in the Canary Islands.

Browse our range of stunning holiday villas in Caleta de Fuste and start practising your pitches and putts.

Why choose Caleta de Fuste for a golf holiday?

When it comes to golf holidays, several factors make Caleta de Fuste the place to go in Fuerteventura and quite possibly the Canary Islands as a whole. One of its biggest advantages is proximity and accessibility to some of the best golf courses in the region. Travel time is kept to a minimum, with the resort just a 10-minute drive from Fuerteventura Airport, which serves flights from a huge range of destinations throughout the UK and beyond.

The climate is, of course, another major draw. With average temperatures typically ranging between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius throughout the year, Caleta de Fuste golf courses are some of the most sun-soaked you’ll find for a relatively short flight time.

Beyond the fairways, the area itself offers a relaxed atmosphere that’s inclusive of all. It centres around a sheltered bay with a sandy beach, a marina and a wide range of restaurants and bars. It’s lively without being overwhelming, making it suitable for both groups of golfers and families travelling together.

The best time to go on a Caleta de Fuste golf holiday

Warmth and lack of rainfall, akin to its neighbouring Sahara Desert, make Caleta de Fuste a genuine year-round destination for a golf holiday. However, certain times of the year may suit your preferences, depending on your priorities.

Winter: By using the term winter, we really mean northern European winter! From December to March, local golf courses enjoy temperatures in the low 20s, making it perfect for long rounds without excessive heat. Choose dates outside of the UK and German school holidays for a quieter atmosphere around the resort.

Spring: Given its balance of slightly warmer temperatures and lack of crowds, April to June is considered by many golf holiday veterans to be the best time to go to Caleta de Fuste.

Summer: Hotter temperatures mean that you’d want to avoid being out on a Fuerteventura golf course in the middle of the day, but this can be used for wining and dining! Early morning and late afternoon tee times are recommended and popular.

Autumn: Another strong contender, given that the summer crowds thin out and the temperature remains stubbornly high after the peak summer period. The Atlantic Ocean off Playa del Castillo is at its warmest at this time, too.

The best golf courses in Caleta de Fuste

Caleta de Fuste is home to two outstanding golf courses, each offering a distinct experience:

Fuerteventura Golf Club

View location

Difficulty: Moderate

The first 18-hole club to open on Fuerteventura, Fuerteventura Golf Club hosted the Open de España in 2004, which speaks volumes about its quality. Designed by Juan Catarineu, it features picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean, palm-lined fairways and three lakes across its spotless resort that remains the most established on the island.

Complete with wide fairways and generous greens, it’s a golf course for all levels and abilities. However, it isn’t a figurative walk in the park either, as a total of 67 bunkers and pretty, yet punishing water hazards can capture wayward shots.

Salinas de Antigua Golf Club

View location

Difficulty: Challenging

This course offers a more modern and visually striking challenge. Designed by Manolo Piñeiro, its 18 holes are exposed to the Atlantic’s winds via its elevated greens. There are volcanic rock formations that tie in perfectly with the wider Fuerteventura landscape.

Tighter fairways mean that strategic shots are rewarded to a greater extent here, with no let-up when you reach the greens, which offer hidden dips and peaks that reward tactical play. Flat and walkable, it’s a course that rewards finesse rather than sheer power.

The best holiday villas in Caleta de Fuste

Villa Strelitzia and Villa Hibiscus

Pair these neighbouring three-bedroom villas together for the ultimate group golf holiday in Caleta de Fuste. Both are newly built contemporary homes, with plush interiors and an outdoor space that’s befitting of holiday memories.

As you can expect, both have an outdoor pool to enjoy the Fuerteventura sunshine from and are located within easy reach of the best golf courses in Caleta de Fuste.

Distance from Salinas de Antigua: 1km

Distance from Fuerteventura Golf Club: 3.5km

Villa Humaik

A large villa that’s suitable for seven guests, Humaik has an en-suite double bedroom, two twin bedrooms and one single bedroom.

A generous outdoor space is characterised by tall palm trees and pristine artificial turf. You’re literally neighbours with the Salinas de Antigua course here.

Distance from Salinas de Antigua: on the course itself, 2km from the course entrance

Distance from Fuerteventura Golf Club: 3km

Villa Ocean Paradise

Another villa that’s on the Salinas de Antigua course itself, Ocean Paradise enjoys expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and easy access to the vast coastline.

A traditional interior gives way to a covered outdoor space that’s the perfect place to relax and dine alfresco after a round of golf. A large canopy bed by the pool is the icing on the cake.

Distance from Salinas de Antigua: on the course itself, 500m from the course entrance

Distance from Fuerteventura Golf Club: 4km

Villa Maresia

A contemporary place to stay that leaves no stone unturned, complete with a putting green to practice before you hit the golf course. Its five bedrooms make it ideal for a group golf holiday.

High ceilings indoors allow natural light to filter in from its raised windows, and there’s a generous outdoor terrace to relax and unwind on. It’s a beautiful, airy Caleta de Fuste property.

Distance from Salinas de Antigua: 2km

Distance from Fuerteventura Golf Club: 3km

Villa Opal

Opal is a great choice as another five-bedroom villa. The open plan layout makes it an ideal spot for socialising as you overlook the Salinas de Antigua golf course.

This signature villa is luxury personified, with a putting green and table tennis table to keep the competition going long after you’ve left the golf course.

Distance from Salinas de Antigua: on the course itself, just 200m from the entrance

Distance from Fuerteventura Golf Club: 4km

Villa Naipa Golf

A prestigious spot next to Fuerteventura Golf Course and within easy reach of Salinas de Antigua.

A large outdoor saltwater swimming pool is overlooked by a spacious covered terrace with loungers and a dining table. There are sun loungers to relax after a long round of golf.

Distance from Salinas de Antigua: 4.5km

Distance from Fuerteventura Golf Club: 500m

Our tips for a golf holiday in Caleta de Fuste

Book tee times in advance

While the Caleta de Fuste courses are rarely overcrowded, the peak winter months can be busy. Securing tee times ahead of arrival ensures you get your preferred schedule.

Consider hiring your clubs

Travelling light is often worth it. Both main courses offer good-quality club hire, saving you the hassle and cost of transporting your own set.

Use a hire car if playing multiple courses

Although the resort is compact, having a car gives you the flexibility to explore more of the island or easily travel between your Villa Plus villa and the courses.

Stay hydrated and sun-protected

Even in the ‘cooler’ months, the sun can be strong. Sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water are essential for comfortable rounds.

Mix golf with downtime

Caleta de Fuste isn’t just about golf. Take full advantage of the amenities in your Villa Plus villa and explore the beach, marina and restaurants to balance your itinerary.

Planning the perfect group golf holiday in the Costa del Sol

October 25, 2025April 29, 2026emilycotterhill1

by Scott Crowe, Villa Plus Contributor

Nothing quite gets you away from the hustle and bustle like a good old round of golf, and if there’s one region that captures the essence of golf holidays, it’s the Costa del Sol.

Formed by a wide area that stretches from Malaga in the east to Gibraltar in the west, this sun-drenched area has earned the nickname ‘Costa del Golf’ for good reason. In this guide, we’ll take you through all there is to know about teeing off in this popular region of Spain, from the best time to go to a range of things to consider before you head off. We’ll also round up the best places to head to, add a set of golf courses to tackle and the perfect large Villa Plus villa to host you and your fellow players for some downtime.

Why choose the Costa del Sol for a group golf holiday?

Costa del Sol holidays are almost unrivalled when it comes to golf. The area’s charms are a key reason Valderrama became the first European course outside of Britain to host the Ryder Cup in 1997. Whether you’re a beginner with a higher handicap that plays a simple course at a snail’s pace, or a seasoned player with an intricate eye for detail, you’ll find holes to suit you amongst a region with an impressive range of options. From a round of links along the coast to inland rugged layouts, there are well over 70 courses to choose from for every level of skill, making the Costa del Sol perfect for a group holiday with a range of different abilities in your party.

Quality, variety and crucially, convenience combine to provide a setting that holidaymakers return to time and time again. It’s incredibly easy to travel between the main golfing hubs, meaning you can play multiple courses during your time away. When you step off the course for some post-round analysis, you’re never too far from a place to relax, unwind and dine, exemplified by our stunning range of Costa del Sol villas.

The best time to go on a Costa del Sol group golf holiday

Great weather is key to a great round of golf, and as a region with an average of over 320 days of sunshine a year, a golf holiday in the Costa del Sol is a genuinely world-leading choice throughout the calendar.

Playing affordable golf and getting the best bang for your buck is always a win. The shoulder seasons of March to June and September to November give any golfing party the perfect balance between stunning weather and maximum value. Temperatures hover between 20 and 25 degrees throughout the day – a comfortable level without being too excessive.

Golf courses and driving ranges are also in prime condition, and tee times are a lot less busy compared to the summer peak. You’ll also find a sharper contrast in spring and autumn between the relatively unsettled weather conditions in northern Europe and the glorious weather in southern Spain. Check out our Villa Plus best price finder to find a golfing holiday time that ticks all the boxes.

The best places to play golf in the Costa del Sol

With a wealth of options along Spain’s southern coastline, we’ve whittled down the numbers into a shortlist of the very best for you to fill out a scorecard on, conveniently grouped by Costa del Sol resort. We’ll take you through their difficulty, highlights and a large Villa Plus villa for you and your fellow golfers to put your feet up in after a long day out on the fairway.

Mijas golf courses

1. Mijas Golf International

Difficulty: Moderate

Featuring not one, but two 18-hole courses, this complex is unmissable on any Mijas golf holiday. The Los Lagos and Los Olivos courses offer wide fairways, large greens and scenic backdrops of the surrounding rolling hills. Both were designed by the experienced golf architect Robert Trent Jones.

It’s accommodating enough for those with a mid-handicap without being too easy for experts.

2. Santana Golf

Difficulty: Moderate

Set within a former avocado plantation, this is another great Mijas golf course to tick off the Costa del Sol bucket list. Expect gently rolling terrain, water features, mature tree hazards and well-positioned bunkers. These strategic obstacles make it a satisfying course to navigate, without being one that’s solely for experienced players.

The setting is everything, making the relaxation of every round what a golf holiday is all about.

3. La Cala Resort

Difficulty: Moderate to hard

Three championship 18-hole courses form one of the largest golfing complexes in Spain, set amongst the scenic foothills of Sierra de Mijas. Each of America, Asia and Europe (as they’re named) has its own quirks, but all combine picturesque mountain and valley views on one side with the picture-perfect sight of the Mediterranean Sea on the other.

There’s variety for all skill levels without the need to travel when you choose to play some rounds here.

Where to stay in Mijas?

Stay at: Villa Cala Beach, Mijas Costa or Villa Alqueria, Mijas

See our other Mijas villas

See our Campo Mijas villas

See our Mijas Costa villas

Fuengirola golf courses

1. Cerrado del Aguila Golf and Resort

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

This compact course is conveniently located just outside Fuengirola. Formed of nine holes, the course is beautifully maintained and cleverly laid out, featuring wide fairways, strategic bunkers and well-placed water hazards. A friendly, low-key atmosphere makes it an enticing place for beginners or for a warm-up round.

Given its proximity to the centre of town, it’s the ideal choice for a morning tee time followed by an afternoon at the beach.

Cerrado del Aguila Golf and Resort, Costa del Sol

2. Chaparral Golf

Difficulty: Moderate to hard

This popular choice weaves dramatically through a pine forest, complete with scenic sea views from several holes along the way. No two holes feel alike as you navigate the 18, with significant elevation changes adding an extra challenging layer to a round here. Being one of the more technical choices along the Costa del Sol means you’ll want to devote more time to getting to and from the clubhouse!

It’s worth noting that the impressive range of golf courses in Mijas are also easily reachable from the Fuengirola area.

Where to stay in Fuengirola?

Stay at: Villa Paraisos Sol, Fuengirola or Villa Cala Beach, Mijas Costa

See our other Fuengirola villas

Calahonda golf courses

1. La Siesta Golf

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Nestled in an incredibly convenient position for a Calahonda villa holiday is La Siesta Golf. This charming nine-hole course is compact but was cleverly designed by Enrique Canales Busquets. There’s attention to detail in abundance through the mix of uphill and downhill holes.

Greens reward accuracy over power, making it a great option to practice and refine your short game. All in all, it’s a great option to warm up any Costa del Sol golf holiday.

2. Miraflores Golf

Difficulty: Moderate

Forgiving holes and intricate technical challenges combine to make Miraflores Golf an immensely intriguing proposition for both beginners and golfing purists alike. To pinch another sporting saying, it’s a real tale of two halves, with the front nine warming players up with generous fairways and open approaches.

The back nine is a refreshing contrast, rewarding strategic play of the percentages, given its water hazards and elevation changes.

3. Capobino Golf Marbella

Difficulty: Moderate to hard

Spectacular sea views and a layout full of character greets every player who steps on the fairway at Capobino Golf Marbella. Scenic surroundings combine with a solid hole design to make this an unmissable stop on your Costa del Sol golf holiday.

The friendly clubhouse is well worth a visit here, complete with a terrace overlooking the 10th and 18th holes.

Where to stay in Calahonda?

Stay at: Villa Solea or Villa Casa Jaska, both in Calahonda

See our other Calahonda villas

Our tips for a group golf holiday in the Costa del Sol

Book early

Given their popularity, tee times at our recommended courses can sell out well in advance so it’s important to check availability and tailor your Costa del Sol golf holiday around this.

Create an itinerary

Make the most of your time by planning it all ahead of time. Make a checklist of golf courses you want to tackle and work out the logistics. Build in some free time. Things often take longer than anticipated, and you’ll still want time to relax.

Consider your transport

The needs of a larger group require greater consideration when getting from A to B and back to your Villa Plus villa on the Costa del Sol. Look at the options of hiring transport and consider a designated driver or minibus service – both handy for any post-round drinks!

Pack smartly

Check the dress codes of the courses that catch your eye and pack your case appropriately. Have practical options to change into and bring a generous amount of sun cream, given the amount of time you’ll be spending outdoors.

Assign a group leader

Having a focal point for green fees and holiday payments can minimise the back and forth of planning a large group holiday. Find a responsible member of the group to handle these key components of a great golf holiday in the Costa del Sol.

Why Choose Villa Plus for Your Next Holiday?

October 16, 2025April 29, 2026emilycotterhill1

by Amelia Casey-Rerhaye, Villa Plus Contributor

A villa in the peaceful countryside, a holiday haven by the sea, or a centrally located urban retreat, Villa Plus really does make finding your perfect holiday easy. Before settling on Villa Plus, I’ve explored pretty much every type of holiday accommodation out there: budget hostels, all-inclusive resorts, family rentals, hotel splurges, and even a spare room in a Parisian apartment (awkward, overpriced, never again). But none of them quite matched the ease and comfort I found with Villa Plus.

Tried it all – here’s what works

Hands down, for me, the villa always wins. With Villa Plus, having your own private space in a great location, with that home-from-home feeling, allows you to melt into the holiday experience like no other. Even the most luxurious all-inclusive resorts come with schedules, crowds, and set menus, so it’s hard to feel like the holiday is truly yours. That’s why I keep coming back to Villa Plus, as I have the flexibility to unwind on my own terms.

Freedom to holiday your way

In a Villa Plus villa, those craving a slower pace can have long, lazy mornings, make breakfast whenever they like, read by the pool, or wander down to the beach. For adventure-seekers, there’s the freedom to get up at sunrise, head off on a hike and not worry about racing back to catch a scheduled lunch.

The well-equipped kitchens in each villa are a game-changer, too. Especially for families like mine, with every dietary requirement under the sun (at hotels, there’s always someone who ends up hungry at the buffet!) With Villa Plus, we can buy our own food, cook when we want, and save on dining costs, yet still treat ourselves to a lovely restaurant meal when we’re in the mood. It’s the best of both worlds.

From private pools to pool tables

Every single Villa Plus property comes with its own private pool. No sharing, no awkward small talk with strangers, just you and your crew soaking up the sun in peace. Whether it’s a morning dip, a lazy afternoon float, or teaching the kids how to dive, it’s yours to enjoy whenever you fancy. And it doesn’t stop there. Loads of villas come with extras included, like table tennis, pool tables, barbecues, and even pool heating. It’s the kind of setup that makes staying in just as tempting as heading out.

Support that’s actually supportive

Not many travel companies can say they have a team on the ground, but Villa Plus can. Whether you’ve got a question before you travel or something pops up while you’re away, they’re always ready to help you figure it out. No robotic replies, just friendly, solution-focused people who actually want your trip to be as relaxing as can be. And honestly, it’s nice to know there’s someone real on the other end of the phone when you need them.

Stress-free booking with Villa Plus

Finding a villa that ticks all the right boxes can be a challenge – syncing flights, transport, and checking for nearby amenities adds to the stress. This is where Villa Plus comes in. The easy-to-use website helps you discover your perfect villa in three ways:

If you’re fixed on location and dates, fill these into the homepage search bar, then use the filters to narrow down your villa options
If you’re keen on a destination but are not fussy about when you go, check out the handy best price finder for the lowest prices month by month
If you’re open to holiday ideas, try the helpful ‘inspire me’ tool

Personally inspect and select every villa

Unlike a lot of travel companies, Villa Plus only recommends places they’ve visited themselves. Yep, every villa is checked out in person and must pass at least five rounds of inspection before it’s listed (and honestly, more get rejected than accepted). And as they know the villas inside and out, the descriptions on the site are refreshingly clear and honest. No vague or wishy-washy descriptions here. That way, the poor “organised person” in your group who gets dumped with the booking responsibility can have peace of mind. And best of all, the Villa Plus team is just a call away, ready to help with advice, suggestions, and reassurance when you need it.

Villa Plus overseas team inspecting a villa

Excellent on Trustpilot

Let’s be honest, reviews are usually the first thing we all check when planning a holiday. And when it comes to Villa Plus, the feedback speaks volumes. With over 35,000 reviews from real customers on Trustpilot and an excellent overall score, it’s clear people genuinely love their villa experiences. These aren’t cherry-picked quotes either; they’re independent, regulated reviews that give you the full picture. So, if you want to see what others have to say before you book, head over to Trustpilot and take a look for yourself.

Ready to plan your next escape?

It’s never too late, or too early, to book. With the affordability of Villa Plus’ premium villas, no hidden costs, and all the amenities you could hope for on a villa holiday… maybe it’s time to start thinking about next summer? Bookings for 2026 are open, so get your pick of the lot while they last at www.villaplus.com

Experience The Villas In Our Brand New TV Advert

December 25, 2023December 20, 2023

In our brand new TV advert, we’re showcasing some of the most stunning villas in our portfolio, located in some of the Europe’s most desirable destinations. From the idyllic Greek Islands to the sun-kissed Algarve region, these villas offer the perfect setting for a truly unforgettable holiday.

Villa Elite Kalathos, Rhodes, Greece

Villa Elite Kalathos is a stunning 4-bedroom villa located on the picturesque island of Rhodes, Greece. With its private pool, spacious living areas, and picturesque views, this villa is the perfect place to relax and recharge.

Villa Eve, Olhos d’Agua, Algarve, Portugal

Villa Eve is a luxurious 4-bedroom villa situated in the heart of the Algarve, Portugal. Offering a private pool and lush gardens, this villa is ideal for families and groups looking for a truly indulgent getaway.

Villa Kerasia House, Agios Stefanos, Corfu, Greece

Villa Kerasia House is a charming 3-bedroom villa located in the picturesque village of Agios Stefanos, Corfu. With its private pool, traditional Greek architecture, and stunning views of the Ionian Sea, this villa is the perfect place to experience the authentic beauty of Corfu.

Villa Casale, Ostuni, Puglia, Italy

Villa Casale is a stylish 4-bedroom villa located in the charming town of Ostuni, Puglia, Italy. Boasting a large private pool, an extensive garden, and panoramic views of the countryside, this villa is ideal for a relaxing escape.

Villa Azimut 2, Tsilivi, Zante, Greece

Villa Azimut 2 is a modern 3-bedroom villa located in the popular resort of Tsilivi, Zante. With its private pool, spacious living areas, and close proximity to the beach, this villa is perfect for families and groups looking for a fun-filled holiday.

Villa Mas Alta, Cala Galdana, Menorca, Spain

Villa Mas Alta is a magnificent 4-bedroom villa located in the idyllic Cala Galdana, Menorca. With a private pool, fabulous views over Cala Galdana gorge, and just a short drive to the beach, this villa is the perfect place to experience the best of Menorca.

Book Your Dream Villa Today

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family escape, or a fun-filled holiday with friends, our villas offer the perfect setting for your next getaway. Book your villa today and experience the difference that a villa holiday can offer.

2022 Villa Kikay Giveaway

February 16, 2022February 18, 2022chiracshah

Terms and Conditions:

1. Each promotion is open to anyone aged 18 years and over, excluding employees of the Promoter, their families, agents and any other person professionally connected with this promotion.

2. No purchase necessary to enter.

3. The promotion will start and end on the following dates: 20/02/2022 – 27/02/2022

4. Entry instructions relating to the promotions (including the closing date/time) will be shared via email from Villa Plus as well as on Villa Plus social media channels. To submit a valid entry, participants must complete the competition form.

5. The prize is a 7 night “villa only” stay at Villa Kikay, Matagorda, Lanzarote. Stay must be completed by the end of April 2022. Date restrictions may apply.

6. Travel to and from the villa such as flights, transfers, or car hire are not included.

7. The winner will be selected at random by Villa Plus, within 7 calendar days of the closing date specified in the competition form. The judge’s decision will be final.

8. Unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Promoter, a prize will only be awarded directly to the entrant responsible for the email account against which a winning entry was registered. Unsuccessful entries in any promotion will not be carried over to subsequent promotions.

9. The Promoter reserves the right to verify the eligibility of entrants. The Promoter may require such information as it considers reasonably necessary for this purpose and a prize may be withheld unless and until the Promoter is satisfied with the verification.

10. The prizes are as stated for each promotion, are non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. The Promoter reserves the right to award alternative prizes of equal or greater value should the advertised prizes become unavailable for any reason.

11. The Promoter is not responsible or liable for any entries that fail to be registered or are delayed due to faulty or failed electronic data transmissions.

12. The Promoter will disqualify entrants it reasonably believes are acting in breach of these terms and conditions.

13. Automated/bulk entries and entries from third parties will be disqualified. No incomplete or corrupted entries will be accepted. Entries will only be accepted if they comply with all entry instructions. Only one entry per person.

14. Entry to this promotion is via the entry form and no other entry method will be accepted.

15. Incomplete entries or those not submitted in accordance with the entry instructions are invalid and will not be entered in the draw.

16. It is a condition of entry that all content created to showcase the prize may be used for publicity that may arise as a result of this promotion, such as inclusion within online and offline news articles, published on the brand’s website or blog, or used in the brand’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter posts. By submitting their details, the entrants agree to the Promoter publicising the promotion and their names as well as using their personal data for the above purposes and fulfilment of prizes. Any personal data shared will be held by Villa Plus, and neither will pass on data to a third party other than for prize fulfillment purposes. By agreeing to these terms, entrants agree to their personal data being used as set out in these terms and as set out in the Promoter’s privacy policy. Prize fulfilment will be handled by Villa Plus.

17. All entrants must consent to the Promoter(s) using any text, photo or video content supplied as part of their entry in future marketing activity for an indefinite period of time.

18. The Promoter is bound by applicable data protection legislation and will act in accordance with data protection legislation.

19. Entrants can request access to the personal information the Promoter holds about them by contacting Villa Plus, Drover House, 16 Adelaide St, St Albans AL3 5BH

20. The Promoter’s decisions regarding all promotional matters will be final, and no correspondence will be entered into.

21. The Promoter is unable to advise entrants if they have not been successful.

22. The Promoter reserves the right at any time to cancel, modify or supersede the promotion (including altering prizes) if, in the sole discretion of the Promoter, the promotion is not capable of being conducted as specified.

23. These terms and conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales and any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts, unless you live in another part of the UK, in which case your local courts will have jurisdiction.

24. The Promoter: Villa Plus, Drover House, 16 Adelaide St, St Albans AL3 5BH.

Best beaches in Portugal

May 6, 2021May 6, 2021chiracshah

Incredible beaches are dotted right across Portugal, which shares its coastline with the Atlantic, offering up incredible snorkelling and water sports adventures. The Algarve is home to many of Portugal’s finest beaches, and boasts a dramatic coastline backed by limestone cliffs and lofty rock formations. With more than 150km of shoreline on offer, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect place to catch some rays, swim, snorkel and play with the kids. Here’s our ultimate guide to the best Portugal beaches.

Praia da Dona Ana

A beautiful beach located near Lagos that easily makes the list of best beaches in Portugal, Praia da Dona Ana was named after a WW1 survivor – a nun called Ana. You’ll recognise it as the picture postcard of the Algarve, offering inspiring rock formations and gorgeously clear waters. When sitting on the beach, the high cliffs will protect you from coastal winds, while children will love collecting the numerous seashells on the sand. Expect crystal-clear sea water that is ideal for snorkelling and swimming because of its calm nature. It is however a little cooler than other beaches, and it may take some time to acclimatise when swimming, especially during the heat of summer. Praia da Dona Ana is very popular and does get crowded in the summer months, especially during the middle of the day, and is quieter during the mornings and evenings.

The beach is a great place for a romantic stroll as you take in the views. Note however that due to high cliffs and plenty of stairs to access the beach, access isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or parents with pushchairs. When the sun sets head to the nearby town of Lagos for a bite to eat before driving back to your picturesque Villa Dora – a tranquil haven in the hills above San Rafael.

Praia da Marinha

One of the best beaches in Portugal, near Carvoeiro, Praia da Marinha’s sandy shores are continuously rated among the most beautiful in the world, and the shoreline is the poster beach for the Algarve tourism industry thanks to its famous ‘M rock’, formation. Its beauty has to be seen to be believed, and taking in the epic sights this beach has to offer really fills you with wonder. The beach boasts soft, golden sand and a restaurant offering refreshments. When the tide is high, walking to the quieter parts of the beach can be tricky if you don’t want to get wet. During low tide, you can walk right along the beach to the famous ‘M rock’.

When it comes to swimming, the waters are usually calm and clear enough for snorkelling, but you can get higher and more choppy waves than on other beaches, so it may not be suitable for younger children. Because of the high cliffs surrounding the beach, there is plenty of protection from the wind, but not much shade, so pack plenty of sunscreen. During peak season, crowds can gather, but thankfully not in their droves, as you need a car to access the beach.

Many people go to Praia de Marinha to enjoy the stunning views and hike the various walking trails that you can pick up from the beach. Walking to the west, one path takes you from the coast right up to Praia de Vale Centeanes, and is known as the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, leading walkers up and across seven stunning coastal valleys. It is one of the most famous Algarve walking trails, so expect plenty of Instagram-worthy photos. If you walk to the east, you can take in a cliff walk offering epic views of the coast from the beach right up to Senhora da Rocha. This long trail lasts a few kilometres and is ideal for the whole family as you take in the panoramic vistas.

Have one of the best beach holidays in Portugal by booking one of our beautiful holiday villas in the Algarve. Return to a quality home-from-home after a day of fun in the sun.

British Travel Awards

December 14, 2020December 14, 2020chiracshah

5 in a row! Thanks to your amazing votes, we have won at the prestigious British Travel Awards for the 5th straight year – and this year it was a biggie! Villa Plus have been voted as the Overall Best Villa Company.

Having been registering public opinion on the performance of leisure travel and visitor attraction providers since 2008, the British Travel Awards are the votes of the people! With over 350,000 registered voters casting their votes in 2017, the British Travel Awards is the largest travel awards programme in the United Kingdom. And, because it is you – the customer – who determine the winners, all of us at Villa Plus believe success in the British Travel Awards is the highest accolade of all travel industry accolades.

This year there were over a million votes in total!

Simon Lifford, Head of Sales and UK operations at Villa Plus, commented that “winning the award for a fifth successive year is a wonderful achievement and is a credit to our teams and the incredible hard-work and dedication they show. We all ensure that everything we do is aimed at delivering the best possible service to our customers and winning this award shows that it is all worthwhile. At Villa Plus we are always adding extra and this is another award to add to our collection!”

Thank you to all our loyal customers who voted and we look forward to seeing you all again very soon.

Press statement in response to recent coverage in Which? Travel 19th Aug

September 10, 2020September 10, 2020annabeltvillapluscom

We have read with great disappointment and dismay the article published on the 19^th August in Which? Travel and feel it is appropriate to clarify certain matters from the article.

Villa Plus was asked to respond to a number of questions by a journalist at Which? about the personal experiences of a handful of our customers. Whilst protecting the confidentiality and personal details of those people we made full and open responses to the questions as far as we could. We took the time to explain the circumstances around our decision making processes and how the relationships between our customers, villa owners and ourselves as the tour operator works. We also explained how the changes in advice coming from the FCO and central government, often at very short notice, have impacted upon us as a business, our agreements with villa owners and other suppliers and the way in which we are able to support our customers.

Sadly, given the detailed information Villa Plus provided, the journalist has chosen to present what we believe to be a highly misleading article to their readers. The article is very selective with the information it offers to the reader and how it presents that information. We believe that the selective presentation of information deliberately leads the reader to draw inaccurate conclusions about the actions of Villa Plus, the relationships we have with owners of villas and with our customers.

We believe it is inappropriate to discuss the holiday arrangements of individual Villa Plus customers in a public forum, and certainly not without their consent. We have however been in contact with each of the customers cited in the article to discuss their concerns about the options they were offered.

The decisions we made and the options presented to customers and villa owners were made in good faith and we believed them to be appropriate at the time they were made.

In order to qualify for a refund customers have to pay both deposit and balance for their holiday as stated in our terms and conditions when they booked their holiday. We always encourage our customers to take the time to read our T&C’s at the time of booking and have also consistently communicated to our customers the importance of making a full payment to qualify for a refund throughout the COVID-19 crisis.

Villa Plus have made full refunds to thousands of customers or provided vouchers for future holidays over the course of the pandemic. Where possible we have offered suitable alternative villas and created alternative travel plans so that customers can enjoy a holiday. Throughout the period of the pandemic we have done our very best to deliver the holidays that our customers wanted and the fact that many of our customers have been able to travel and enjoy a holiday is testament to a great deal of hard work by our team at Villa Plus.

Communications with customers and with villa owners is very important to us and usually work in harmony from experience developed over many years but as you will appreciate this year has been very different. Given the ever changing nature of the situation Villa Plus has been engaging with our customers in departure date order and when the situation has been at its most dynamic our contact has in many cases been only a few days before their scheduled departure date. This is not ideal, and we recognise there have been occasions this summer where this has not always worked as it usually would. We apologise to those customers who have experienced worry or frustration as a result.

The article was also critical of our relationships with villa owners and the management of villa availability. Again, we believe this to be unfair and inaccurate as we have strong working relationships with our villa owners, and we value those relationships very highly.

COVID-19 has also affected villa owners who have faced significant challenges over the course of this year. Where holiday bookings could not be fulfilled due to travel restrictions many villa owners have made efforts to attract customers via other routes beyond Villa Plus by advertising their villa on other websites. Where customers have seen their villas advertised elsewhere this is because a villa owner, in believing travel from the UK is not possible, has made the decision advertise the villa more widely to attract bookings and plug the gaps left by UK travellers.

We have worked with villa owners this year in the same way as we work with our customers, providing support and flexibility and always honouring the terms and conditions of our contracts. In the vast majority of cases villa owners have been paid via a series of payments not linked to any one single booking made by a customer, and in many cases villa owners have received advance payments from Villa Plus.

The Which? article asks the question, “Is Villa Plus breaking the law?”

We believe that this is absolutely not the case and that if Which? had taken the time to read our response to them and understand the circumstances at the time decisions were being made in the cases they highlight they would recognise that.

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented many challenges to the UK travel industry as well as many other sectors. At Villa Plus we have responded to a very challenging and dynamic set of circumstances but have always done the best we can for our customers and villa owners. We understand the worry and frustration that many of our customers have experienced this year and apologise for that. We will always put our customers at the heart of our business and our overriding priority is to provide every one of them with a fantastic holiday experience. It has been a challenging year for everyone, but in every case in trying to respond to a difficult situation we believe we have acted within the letter and the spirit of the law.

Press statement in response to recent coverage on BBC The One Show

August 28, 2020September 10, 2020chiracshah

Refunds for package holiday customers

For any customer who books a package holiday with flights and villa, or a non-flight inclusive package holiday, their refund rights are governed by the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 (PTRs). Customers are entitled to a full refund if their holiday cannot go ahead if the destination is closed, or the FCO advise against travel to that destination. We have a very good record of paying these refunds quickly and in full to our customers.

The situation for villa only customers

Customers who chose to book only a villa with us, and decided to make their own travel arrangements, are not covered by the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 (PTRs). Our terms and conditions make this clear. Where the destination is open and the villa is available to be used, we are not obliged to give a refund if the customer decides not to travel. Customers have the option to take out travel insurance to provide them with protection against cancellation in these circumstances. Where a villa is not available, and we cannot provide a suitable alternative (e.g. where the destination is closed) then customers are offered a cash refund.

Refund payments

Over the course of the pandemic we have made full refunds to many thousands of package holiday customers where travel restrictions at the villa destinations have prevented holidays or the FCO advised against travel. Where possible we have offered suitable alternative arrangements and created alternative travel plans so that customers can enjoy a holiday. We have also refunded villa only customers in cash where the destination is closed or we can no longer provide a suitable villa in the destination.

Changing policy on refunds

The UK government has frequently changed its travel advice throughout the pandemic, often with very little notice, and we have had to adjust our own policies accordingly.

Impact of local lockdowns

Local lockdowns have been put in place by the government however these do not affect our ability to provide the booked holiday. The current Government advice is that customers can still travel to a holiday destination outside of the affected area provided that they take suitable precautions.

If flights and villa are available and the destination is open, but the home address is affected by a local lockdown and a customer does not travel, then that is something that they should take up with their travel insurer as they would under normal circumstances. This does not give rise to a right to a refund. We always encourage our customers to take out travel insurance which is appropriate for their circumstances.

The advice from ABTA on local lockdowns, such as the one put in place in Leicester, is that there is no obligation upon travel operators to refund a customer if the customer decides not to travel because of a local lockdown in the place they live. ABTA also encourage travellers to take out travel insurance which is appropriate for their circumstances.

Shielding customers

If a member of the party is unwell or unfit to travel on health grounds but flights and villa are available and the destination is open, then that is something that they should take up with their travel insurer as they would under normal circumstances. This does not give rise to a right to a refund. We always encourage our customers to take out travel insurance which is appropriate for their circumstances.

ABTA advice on local lockdowns and shielding

Sean Tipton from ABTA says, “If your holiday can go ahead as planned but your circumstances unfortunately mean you cannot travel, for example due to local restrictions or because you are shielding, then normal cancellation charges will apply. In these instances, you should check your travel insurance to see if you can make a claim, or, if you have booked a package holiday, you can see if you can transfer your holiday to another person. Many travel companies are doing all they can to offer more flexible booking policies at this time, so it’s important to speak to your travel provider to see if they can offer any alternative options, but they are not legally obliged to do so. If you have an accommodation-only or flight-only booking, these are not covered by the Package Travel Regulations so you will need to read the terms and conditions to establish your rights to a refund.”

Availability of information & T’s & C’s

All of this information is laid out in the T&C’s which we encourage all our customers to read and we also have information available on the “Frequently asked questions” page of our website. We always advise customers to ensure they have adequate travel insurance in place to cover any unforeseen eventualities.

Customer communications

As the pandemic took hold the volume of our customer contact rapidly and massively increased. Because of this we took the decision to put relevant information for customers on our website and our social media pages in the form of FAQs. We believed that by doing this we could ensure the most up to date key information was available to our customers whenever they needed it. We understand that customers may have made repeated attempts to contact us directly however our online information was there for them until the point we were able to contact them directly.

Our customer contact has increased over a hundred times beyond what we would usually experience, whilst at the same time our business like others in the UK has been affected by Covid-19, by such things as having to close our offices and relocate our staff to working from home.

As a result of the ever changing nature of the situation we have needed to engage with our customers in departure date order to provide the essential information they needed. This included such things as if their holiday was going ahead or not, if they were due a refund and information about balance payments. This direct information which was unique to their holiday and what they principally needed to know to get them away on holiday. Had we not approached the challenge in this way then customers would have missed out on holidays or had their refunds delayed.

When the situation has been at its most dynamic our contact has, in some cases, been only a few days before their scheduled departure date. We accept that this is not ideal, and we recognise there have been occasions this summer where this has not always worked as it usually would. We apologise to those customers who have experienced worry or frustration as a result.

Commitment to customers

Throughout the period of this unprecedented pandemic we have done our very best to respond to and answer customer questions as quickly as we could, although in many cases we often did not have the answers to those questions ourselves in a fast moving and at times chaotic situation. Consequently, it has been impossible to answer customers individually, so we took the decision to put the relevant information on our website news pages and our social media pages in the form of FAQs.

We have done our utmost to deliver the holidays that our customers wanted and the fact that many of our customers have been able to travel and enjoy a holiday is testament to a great deal of hard work by our team at Villa Plus delivering on our promises.

Managing customer complaints

As an ABTA member we will automatically review twice any complaint we receive. When a review is underway it would be inappropriate to add any further comment until the review is completed. The link to the relevant ABTA advice; https://www.abta.com/news/coronavirus-outbreak

Press statement in response to recent coverage

June 12, 2020June 13, 2020chiracshah

Covid-19 is an ever-changing, complex and challenging situation for everyone across the travel industry. We understand the impact the global pandemic has had upon the holiday and travel plans of many of our customers and we are working very hard to provide them with the best possible outcomes under the circumstances.

The lifting of lockdown across Europe is being managed on a country by country basis and, in some cases, such as Spain, on a regional basis. In addition to this countries are moving at different rates on easing restrictions and this is adding complexity to the situation.

Where a holiday could not be fulfilled because the destination country was in lockdown, customers were entitled to a refund and we have already made full refunds to thousands of flight inclusive package holiday and villa-only customers. However, due to local lifting of restrictions in certain destinations it meant that those non ATOL protected villa-only customers were unfortunately no longer eligible for a refund.

Initially we set about actively helping those customers affected to claim back monies through their travel insurance, however it became apparent that this was more challenging to achieve than expected. We also learned that a significant number of our customers had not taken out appropriate travel insurance. It was never our intention for any of our customers to be left out of pocket and as a result of this we are providing a full refund to those Villa Plus villa only customers who believe that a refund is the best option for them.

“Nicholas Cooper and Rajesh Mavani, Company Directors at Villa Plus” said, “Whilst throughout all of this we complied with our booking conditions, we came to understand that some villa only customers would suffer financial loss which was clearly very disappointing for them. We are sorry for the upset that they experienced and are determined to help them. Offering a full refund to those customers seems to us the right thing to do.

“The majority of our customers have been happy with our response to a testing set of circumstances, however we understand there have been some frustrations that at times we have been unable to respond as quickly and as clearly as we might have done. We have acted to improve the speed and clarity of our communications and we are working around the clock to try and get back to customers as fast as possible. Where concerns remain we are working with our customers on a case by case basis to resolve them. In the meantime we continue to encourage customers to visit our website that has all the latest updates on our Travel News section.”