Are you a golf enthusiast searching for the ultimate golfing experience? Look no further than the Algarve region of Portugal, a golfer’s paradise that offers some of the best golf courses in Europe. From stunning coastlines to challenging and scenic courses, the Algarve has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to play golf in the Algarve, including Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, and Albufeira.
Vilamoura: Golfing with a View
If you’re looking for breathtaking views of the sea while playing golf, Vilamoura is the place to be. With a total of six golf courses, Vilamoura offers a wide range of courses that will challenge golfers of all levels. The Dom Pedro Victoria Golf Course is one of the most popular courses in Vilamoura, designed by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer. Victoria features a challenging layout with beautiful lakes and vegetation, making it a true test of skill.
Victoria has been the home to the Portugal Masters since 2007 and there’s some lovely long holes here if you play from the competition tees. Fairways are still pretty wide open though, so the big hitters can comfortably let rip without the worry of travelling out of bounds. Despite being s championship course, it’s possible to score low here if you’re on your game.
Another well-respected course in Vilamoura is the Old Course Golf Club, designed by Frank Pennink. This course has been around since the 1960s and offers a more traditional golfing experience. The course is set amongst a beautiful landscape of pine trees and rolling hills, providing a scenic backdrop for your game.
Quinta do Lago: Luxury Golfing Experience
If you’re looking for a luxurious golfing experience, Quinta do Lago is a place like no other. This exclusive resort is home to three of the best golf courses in the Algarve: North, South, and Laranjal. There are always arguments about which is the best,
The South Course, designed by William Mitchell, has been ranked as one of the top 100 golf courses in Europe, has recently undergone a €7 million rennovation and looks all the better for it (not that there was much wrong before.). A Particular highlight is the the 15th, a rather tricky par 4 that measures 411 yards which dog-legs to the right to a raised green. It’s one of the toughest on the course with plenty of bunkers and trees to throw you off. Accuracy is key here.
The North Course, designed by Beau Welling and Paul McGinley, is known for its undulating terrain and stunning views of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve. Of the three it’s probably the easiest, so if you’re just starting your golfing adventure, this is most certainly the one to play
Laranjal, designed by Jorge Santana da Silva, is known for its beautiful orange groves and challenging water hazards and in our opinion, the most picturesque, you’ll get some stunning views and beautifully integrated water features. We recommend playing late afternoon as the sun is going down. You’ll get some great photo’s for your instagram account if you do.
Albufeira: Golfing with a Twist
If you’re looking for a unique golfing experience, head to Albufeira. The Salgados Golf Course is one of the most unique courses in the Algarve, set amongst a beautiful nature reserve that is home to a variety of bird species. T
Salgados features large lakes and sand dunes, making it a true challenge for golfers of all levels. Buggy hire is innexpenisve here, costing as little as €5, so it’s well worth taking advantage of this when you make your booking. Trust us, it’ll save your legs after 18 holes.
Another golf course worth mentioning if you’re on a golf trip to Albufeira is the Pine Cliffs Golf Course. This course is set amongst the stunning cliffs of the Algarve coastline and offers stunning views of the sea. The course is designed by Martin Hawtree and is known for its challenging layout, including the sixth, a par-3 hole that requires a shot over a ravine.
In Conclusion
The Algarve is a golfer’s paradise, offering a range of courses that cater to all levels of skill and experience. Whether you’re looking for stunning sea views, a luxurious golfing experience, or a unique challenge, you’re bound to be delighted with the sheer range of golf course and accommodation options. They’re so good, you’ll want to return again and again.
