Portugal has some of the best golf courses in Europe, so choosing which to play on your next golf holiday is not easy! Our Sales Manager, Kyle, has put together his top 5 courses in Portugal to help offer some inspiration:
Monte Rei
The par 72 course designed by Jack Nicklaus sits firmly at number one as my favourite golf course in Portugal. This isn’t just because of its magnificent setting, but the overall experience you receive when playing a round at Monte Rei. From the moment you arrive, to the moment you leave, there isn’t another course in Portugal that gives you the same feeling. The course plays a sizable 7182 yards, it’s located at the foothills of Tavira in the eastern Algarve and it’s got some fantastic views of the Serra Do Caldeirao mountains. This is definitely a course to get on your bucket list if you haven’t already.
Dom Pedro Victoria
The home of the Portuguese masters. Located in the very popular Vilamoura area, this Arnold Palmer designed Dom Pedro Victoria course certainly doesn’t disappoint. As with most courses of its ilk, this very well-maintained course plays to par 72 and its 7274-yard layout provides a good test for all golfers. Although comparatively flat to other courses in the Algarve, its considerable number of penalty areas and undulating greens keeps even the best golfers honest.
Palmares
Labelled as “the jewel in the crown of the Algarve”. This magnificent 27-hole course is in the Lagos area along the coast of the Atlantic. Designed by Frank Pennink & Robert Trent Jones Jnr. The course starts at the hilltop lined with trees, cascading down the links land dunes, the course seamlessly blends into its rural seaside setting. Palmares is a great golf course that’s away from the hectic central Algarve that’s defiantly worth a trip out too, to experience it for yourself.
West Cliffs
This Cynthia Dye course is located on Portugal’s breathtaking silver coast. It’s approximately a one-hour drive north of Lisbon, but certainly worth the trip. West Cliffs is a par 72 and although not the longest course at 6979 yards, it certainly provides a challenge. This course from the back tees demands precision, with large areas of wasteland/sand if you miss the fairway, it can often provide a difficult second or third shot. However, the big attraction isn’t just the course itself it’s the marvellous views you get at each tee box.
Oitavos Dunes
At the furthest westerly tip of Europe, Oitavos Dunes is a Par 71 course that measures 6890 yards. Designed by Arther Hills, more commonly known for his US-designed courses, this course takes full advantage of the Portuguese landscape. This stunning course combines fantastic views of The Sintra Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a fantastic test for all golfers that start under the umbrella pines trees and work your way out to its commonly known sand dunes.
