Crowne Plaza Vilamoura is a beachfront hotel located in the beautiful marina surrounded by shops and restaurants.
Award Booking Crowne Plaza Vilamoura
I used my IHG points to book 5-nights at this resort (one night was free for having the free Platinum status from the credit card). The cash price for 5 nights would have cost us around $2300, so the IHG points yielded a decent value for the booking.
Car rental experience at Lisbon airport
Car rental prices at Lisbon airport from all the major companies are very reasonable. The rental car price for 6 days was between $150-220 USD for an automatic transmission car.
However, picking up our Lisbon airport car rental from Budget took around 45 minutes due to a long line and ticket system that covers both Avis & Budget in the same counter. There are NO Budget Fast Break Benefits in Europe and I recommend going with either Hertz or National car rental for faster pick up times (they both have several computer kiosks for self check-in).
Drive from Lisbon airport to Crowne Plaza Vilamoura
The drive on the beautiful two-lane highway took just under two hours to reach the hotel from the airport. There was only one toll booth along the way and we used the fast lane since our vehicle was equipped with a Via Verde transponder for automatic toll payment.
Crowne Plaza Vilamoura Lobby
Crowne Plaza Vilamoura has a large lobby with many places to sit and relax on the unique white furniture. There is a large bar/snacks area overlooking the outdoor pool and the prices were very reasonable.
Crowne Plaza Vilamoura Check-in
Check in was very fast and the front desk explained about the free parking at the hotel. We have provided the rental car tag number to be entered into the system that allows for automatic entry and exit.
Our reservation did not qualify for the free breakfast, which was very expensive at 36 Euros per person per day. There are plenty of breakfast places that serve eggs (scrambled, fried) within a short walking distance. There is also a daily spa fee of 15 Euros per day to get unlimited access to use the indoor swimming pool, sauna etc.,
Standard Room Double Bed
Everything in the room was nicely arranged with enough space to place your carry-ons and the closet space was adequate. The king bed was put together with two twin beds that were comfortable. There was a small seating area with a ceiling fan and a single sofa chair. There was a small balcony with two chairs and a table.
Wi-Fi Speed
Fitness Center
The hotel has a perfect-sized gym with good air conditioning, Technogym equipment and a water station that can be accessed 24/7 (located on the -1 floor labeled as “spa” on the elevator buttons).
Spa
We did not pay the 15 Euro fee for the spa entry, but it looked nice inside.
Conclusion
Crowne Plaza Vilamoura is one of the best places to stay and explore the Algarve region and can be easily booked with Chase/IHG points. There is plenty of free parking at the hotel and I wish the breakfast was included when you book with points. The spa access costs extra, but gives you a congestion-free experience.