Portugal, Algarve- Golf Courses

ALTO
The last course designed by Henry Cotton the course runs through two valleys and offers winding fairways and undulating greens. The course is famous for its 16th hole which at 604 metres is one of the longest par 5s in Europe. Located near the town of Alvor players have a view over Lagos Bay on the front 9 and the back 9 meanders through gentle slopes.
BENAMOR
Opened in the year 2000 the course is laid out on mainly undulating land offering views of the Ocean and the mountains. The fairways are lined by Olive , Carob and fig trees but the wide greens require an excellent approach shot to get it close . Situated close to the town of Tavira .
BOAVISTA
Opened in 2004 this offers a fair test for golfers of all abilities and is located in the western part of the Algarev towards Lagos .Umbrella pines, blossoming almond, fig, palm and olive trees line the rolling fairways, weaving their way between water hazards and strategically placed bunkers .
CASTRO MARIM
Quite hilly with spectacular views both out to sea and inland and located in the eastern part of the Algarve .Very well bunkered and with several water hazzards the course requires a strategic approach , definiely not a course that you can just blast away off the tee .
GOLFE do MORGADO
One of the latest spectacular additions to golf in the Algarve, a great combination of parkland and more hilly terrain. You need to be a good putter here as the greens are very large .A really good test of golf .
GRAMACHO
With just 9 holes but thanks to its double tees and greens running through rolling countryside the course provides an interesting challenge18 hole challenge . A tight driving course with the fairways protected by a variety of trees it places a premium on accuracy off the tee .
PALMARES
This Frank Pennink designed course is certainly one of the most popular courses in the area, dipping down to the shoreline before rising once more into parkland terrain. The course is a skilfull blend of links style golf and inland golf and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Situated near Lagos this is one of the most attractive courses in the area ..
PARQUE de FLORESTA
Situated near the historic town of Lagos, the course runs through valleys and eucalyptus covered ravines and uses the land contours to great advantage.
PENINA CHAMPIONSHIP
The first golf course built in the Algarve, a testament to its architect Sir Henry Cotton. It has been the host to the Portugese Open 10 times to date. Continually improved over the years it is a traditional flat parkland type golf course with many trees and well guarded greens.
PINHEIROS ALTOS
The first 9 holes are set amidst pine trees on a gently rolling terrain. The second 9 in contrast runs through hills dotted with lakes. The addition of a new 9 holes makes this an exciting complex located in the Quinta do Lago complex . Some of the best practice facilities on the Coast .
QUINTA da CIMA
It is dotted with olives carobs and almond trees with six holes featuring water lakes and a stream meandering throughout.This new course is of Championship standard which will provide an enjoyable challenge for most players. Set in rolling and undulating terrain itt provides open fairways, well placed bunkers and enough water to keep you on your toes
QUINTA da RIA
Set on undulating terrain within the Ria Formosa Natural Park with breathtaking views over the ocean. The course designed by Rocky Roquemore to take advantage of the beautiful natural setting ihas the blue sea as its southern boundary. The course features five lakes and you have to put well to post a good score on the undulating greens .
QUINTO do LAGO NORTH
The course overlooks the Ria Formosa and is an excellent test of golf.The 4 par 5 holes offer a tough test and with most of the par 4 's being doglegs long accurate driving will get its reward here. One of the best courses in the Algarve .
QUINTO do LAGO SOUTH
Often used as the venue for the Portuguese Open this complements the North course and is a memorable test of golf . Water features on several holes and the spectacular surroundings of the Ria Formosa provide a memorable experience . Another coyurse where good driving is esential to score well .
SALGADOS
Although this 6,000 metre links is not very long, the abundance of lakes and water features makes this a demanding test of golfing skills. Situated close to Albufeira the course is subject to the prevailing winds to make it a true test of accuracy and placement .
SAN LORENZO
Regularly voted in the top 3 of European golf courses. The course is only available to those staying in the adjoining hotel but is a fantastic golfing experience .
SHERATON PINE CLIFFS
The 9 hole course is not very long but features one of the most spectacular par 3s not just in Portugal but in the whole of Europe. From the tee you hit across the ravine to a small green -Im sure you have seen a photograph of it .
THE OCEAN COURSE
Part of the Vale de Lobo complex, one of the more expensive courses to play and also one of the oldest and scenically spectacular. The narrow fairways meander through old trees and with several holes running along the Ocean the sea provides a specatular backdrop . Another course where good driving is essential .

Portugal golf courses continued ....