Over the years there has been tremendous development of Vale do Lobo and the surrounding area, and as a result the area has lost some of it's original charm and character.

VDL is now a very expensive up-market resort targeting the moderately wealthy to minor celebrity and sport star market. The mix of excellent beach, tennis and golf facilities still make it a great, convenient location for families and older groups with generally lovely sunny weather.

The new owners have re-branded the "product" and seem strongly committed to maintaining and improving the resorts standards. As a result the whole resort is well maintained and the golf courses were in very good condition until the area was hit with tremendous thunderstorms(see below) which lasted most of a weekend. This is somewhat unusual in late September. This year the two golf courses which are now very expensive (unless you have a discounted deal), are extremely busy and can be somewhat over-booked. The extra charge of 90 Euro's for a buggy is excessive.

Royal Course: The course features the much photographed 16th Par3 which has spectacular views of the beach and coastline towards Albufiera. With a nearly 180 metres carry over two major ravines caused by erosion of the edge of the cliffs it is one of Europe's most spectacular and difficult golf holes. At the moment a few of the holes are slightly affected by major road and hotel construction projects which are a slight inconvenience when walking or riding between the 5th and 6th holes and particularly the 11th to 12th holes.

There can be a number of small groups of men playing the course and with only 8 minute intervals between "flights" of players, so the courses can become congested and the constant hectoring of the Marshall's can get wearing. Considering the cost of playing the courses, it can be disappointing to have to rush the game and spoil the enjoyment of playing a super course. Following heavy thunderstorms and heavy rain, the high traffic levels show in the surface of the greens which became heavily marked with footprints and old pitch marks. The greens staff work very hard to recover the courses and restore the bunkers.

The price/performance of restaurants in the resort e.g. Ken Lo's and Montys is questionable. The food at Ken Lo's is very good but the wine list is relatively expensive. Jasmine tea is a good alternative! Local restaurants also seem to be relatively expensive and now "everyday" restaurants cost about the same as the UK e.g. £70 for a 2 course meal and bottle of inexpensive wine. Locally,  Iberico and Figueral seemed the best value with the Lemon Tree in Almancil well worth a try.

Overall VDL is a super location for a holiday at the higher cost bracket.