Situated on Portugal’s Algarve coast, the vibrant resort town of Vilamoura has announced the development of the new Vilamoura Equestrian Centre, cementing the destination as a leading location for horse riding, showjumping, and activity-focused holidays. Benefiting from year-round sunshine and located in the heart of a stunning environmental park, the centre is set to become the largest and best-equipped equestrian facilities in Europe.
The new Vilamoura Equestrian Centre will feature in the Winter Tour series organized by GRANDPRIX, a 20-week schedule from October to April of CSI3* and CSI4* and even 5* competitions, joining the likes of the Longines Deauville Classic, Chantilly Classic, Le Touquet Classic and Cabourg Classic, which attract some of the world’s leading showjumping performers.
About the Vilamoura Equestrian Centre
The return to major global competition marks the beginning of an exciting new era for Vilamoura and the new Equestrian Centre, which is set to become a prestigious five-star facility. The centre will feature three new ebb-and-flow sand arenas, each exceeding 6,500m² and a large grass arena measuring 14,000m². Additionally, key features of the upgrade include four all-weather warm up arenas, Europe’s largest covered free-training arena exceeding 6,000m². and a state-of-the-art veterinary clinic will also be on-site. The enhancements continue, including over 1,000 new fixed stables, three premium hospitality spots with a VIP space, a 3km horse path, and a 30,000m² grass free-training area in a natural reserve, ensuring a world-class experience for all visitors.
These upgrades mean the Vilamoura Equestrian Centre will exceed the expectations of riders, horses, and spectators alike, offering an unparalleled equestrian experience as well as a prime sponsorship opportunity for local and international brands. The Vilamoura Equestrian Centre is just one of a number of dazzling sporting facilities in the iconic Algarve town, which also features some of Europe’s leading golf courses, such as the Victoria and Old Course, the internationally awarded marina, a new marina for larger boats already in construction, sandy beaches, as well as a wide variety of leisure and dining venues.
What the officials said
Isolete Correia, CEO of *Vilamoura: “The return of International Showjumping Circuit to Vilamoura represents a significant advance in Vilamoura’s journey towards becoming extraordinary. With the well-advanced construction of the new marina, new residential offerings, and other sports facilities, Vilamoura is elevating the standards of quality, design and sustainability within its world-class resort community.”
Nuno Sepúlveda, co-CEO of DETAILS, which is overseeing the Equestrian Centre renovations in its management role for selected sporting facilities in Vilamoura: “Our goal is to create an environment that matches the passion and dedication of the riders and their horses. With these state-of-the-art facilities, we are not only enhancing the quality of the competitions but also ensuring the utmost comfort and safety for all participants. Returning to the international circuit and working with GRANDPRIX to host a spectacular series of events next year and throughout the winter season will showcase the hard work and improvements that we are making. I am sure everyone who attends these events will find a first-class venue on par with some of the world’s greatest facilities.”
Vincent Goehrs, founder of GRANDPRIX: “We are thrilled to bring our events to such a prestigious and beautifully renovated venue as the Vilamoura Equestrian Centre. The combination of top-tier facilities and the stunning location makes it an ideal destination for our international showjumping competitions. We look forward to a successful partnership and to providing unforgettable experiences for both participants and spectators in Vilamoura.”
Bruno Rente, president of the Portuguese Equestrian Federation: “The revitalisation of the Vilamoura Equestrian Centre is a significant milestone for the equestrian community in Portugal and beyond. This upgraded facility will not only attract top international talent but also foster the development of local riders and officials. We are excited to support this initiative and look forward to witnessing world-class competitions in such a magnificent setting.”
For more information on Vilamoura Equestrian Centre see vilamouraworld.com