Active family holidays are having a bit of a moment. So-called “playcations” – trips built around hobbies, sport and shared activities – are growing in popularity, especially with families who want more than just pool time.
In the Algarve, Vale do Lobo has leaned into this trend with a summer programme centred on golf, tennis, swimming, live entertainment and family-focused dining. The idea is simple: keep all ages engaged, learning and moving, while still enjoying the slower pace of a sunny break.
What is a playcation and why families are choosing active holidays
A playcation focuses on active experiences as part of the holiday itself. That might mean structured sports tuition, hands-on workshops or shared games rather than purely passive downtime.
At Vale do Lobo, this approach runs through the core of the resort’s summer offering. Visitors of all ages have access to sports coaching, group sessions, playgrounds and evening entertainment.
Vale do Lobo's Summer Junior Golf Academy
The Vale do Lobo's Summer Junior Golf Academy runs six academies across the summer months. Each programme includes:
- Ten hours of expert tuition
- Five days of hands-on practice
- Coaching led by Vale do Lobo’s golf expert
There is also time on the course itself, giving young golfers the chance to refine their technique and build confidence in a practical setting.
Vale do Lobo's tennis academy and family sports facilities
Sports tuition isn’t limited to golf. The Vale do Lobo Tennis Academy offers daily children’s lessons throughout the summer holidays, running from 9–11 am.
Sessions are open to all abilities and focus on practical guidance to help young players improve their game in a structured setting.
Beyond formal lessons, there are more relaxed ways to stay active:
- A heated swimming pool at the Tennis Academy, popular with families
- The ParTee mini golf course for informal games across age groups
The Praça: evening entertainment for the whole family
At the heart of the resort is the bustling Praça – the central square where much of the evening activity takes place. Daily children’s entertainment runs between 6:30 pm and 11:00 pm and includes:
- Themed inflatable attractions
- Popcorn and candyfloss carts
- Face painting and creative hairstyling
- Temporary tattoos and balloon modelling
- Arts, crafts and creative workshops
- Folk dancing and cultural showcases
- A children’s electric car circuit
- A vintage Parisian carousel (27 May to 12 September)
Over the summer, the Praça also hosts a mix of live music and themed performances.
Family-friendly dining at Vale do Lobo
Dining is designed to suit mixed age groups, with relaxed settings and varied menus.
- El Ta’koy offers a tropical-inspired dining experience.
- Smash focuses on family favourites and crowd-pleasing dishes.
- Doce serves light meals, fresh juices and pastries.
As part of the summer family offer, guests receive one doughnut per person per night from Doce.
Vale do Lobo family offer for summer
For stays between 1 June and 30 September, the summer family offer includes:
- Up to 25% off apartment stays
- Children up to 12 staying free of charge in an extra bed
- A daily beach hut with two sun loungers
- Free use of the Resort Shuttle’s internal circuit
If you're thinking of staying a little longer, explore property for sale in Vale do Lobo.
