Golf in the Algarve, Portugal
Portugal’s Algarve and golf
The Algarve, located in the south of Portugal, is a popular region for its beautiful sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and generous sunshine, with over 300 days of sunshine a year. The region has a mild Mediterranean climate, with pleasant temperatures throughout the year, making it an ideal place to play golf in all seasons.
In addition to its natural assets, the Algarve is also renowned for its many top-class golf courses, which attract amateur and professional golfers from around the world. There are over 40 golf courses, each offering unique landscapes and a variety of challenges, from seaside courses with breathtaking ocean views to courses nestled in the picturesque hills of the hinterland.
Golf facilities in the Algarve are modern and well maintained, with welcoming clubhouses, quality restaurants and pro-shops providing everything needed for a successful round of golf. Many of the courses were designed by renowned architects such as Sir Henry Cotton, Rocky Roquemore and Arnold Palmer, ensuring an exceptional playing experience.
The Algarve is also renowned for its many golf tournaments and events, such as the Portuguese Open, the Portugal Masters and the annual Algarve Golf Trophy. These competitions attract players and spectators from all over the world, enhancing the Algarve’s reputation as a premier golfing destination.
Golf courses in Vale do Lobo
At Vale do Lobo, golf enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice with two outstanding golf courses: the Ocean Golf Course and the Royal Golf Course. Each offers a unique playing experience and challenges suitable for golfers of all levels.
The Ocean Golf Course, designed by Sir Henry Cotton, is distinguished by its seaside location and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The 18-hole, par 72 course covers 6,137 metres and offers a harmonious mix of seaside holes and holes through beautiful pine forests. Golfers will need precision and strategy to succeed on this challenging course, which will test their technique on the undulating greens and narrow fairways.
The Royal Golf Course, also designed by Sir Henry Cotton and redesigned by Rocky Roquemore, is an 18-hole, par 72 golf course spanning 6,059 metres. The course offers a stimulating challenge with a combination of seaside golf holes and holes winding through picturesque pine forests and lakes. The signature hole of the Royal Golf Course is hole 16, considered one of the most spectacular in the world. This 224-metre par 3 offers a breathtaking tee shot over a cliff, with a breathtaking view of the ocean in the background. Golfers will need to master their accuracy and distance to succeed on this iconic hole.
Golf courses in Quinta do Lago
Quinta do Lago is undoubtedly a top destination for golfers in the Algarve. The area is home to three outstanding golf courses: North, South and Laranjal, each offering unique and memorable experiences.
Quinta do Lago North Golf Course
The North Course is an 18-hole, par 72 course that spans 6,126 metres. It was designed by architects William F. Mitchell and Joseph Lee and opened in 1989. The course emphasises strategy, with narrow fairways and well-protected greens.
Golfers must be precise to navigate the wetlands and lakes that dot the course. The North Course’s signature hole is the 12th, a par 3 with a green surrounded by water, where golfers must hit an accurate tee shot to avoid hazards.
Quinta do Lago South
The South Course is the most famous course at Quinta do Lago. Opened in 1974 and designed by architect William F. Mitchell, this 18-hole, par 72 championship course extends over 6,500 metres. The South Course is known for its wide fairways and undulating greens, which challenge golfers of all abilities.
The course has hosted several professional tournaments, including the Algarve Open and the Portuguese Open. The most iconic hole is the 15th, a challenging par 3 where golfers must make a daring tee shot to reach an island green.
Quinta do Lago Laranjal
Laranjal is the latest course at Quinta do Lago, opened in 2009. Designed by architect Jorge Santana da Silva, this 18-hole, par 72 course stretches over 6,480 metres. Laranjal is characterised by its winding fairways, five lakes and numerous orange trees, which give the course its name.
The course is renowned for its fast greens and strategically placed bunkers, which challenge golfers to master their short game. Laranjal’s signature hole is the 11th, a long and difficult par 5 with a green protected by a lake.
Each of these courses offers unique challenges and breathtaking scenery, making Quinta do Lago a must for any golfer visiting the Algarve.
Best hotels in the Algarve for golf
The Algarve has many hotels and resorts dedicated to golf. Here are some of the best hotels for golfers in the Algarve.
Dona Filipa Hotel in Vale do Lobo
The Dona Filipa Hotel is a five-star hotel located near Vale do Lobo. It offers privileged access to the San Lorenzo golf course, one of the most famous in the region. Hotel guests enjoy special rates on green fees and can also make use of the club’s facilities, such as the restaurant, golf shop and tennis courts. The rooms and suites offer luxurious comfort with breathtaking views of the ocean or the golf course.
- Location: Vale do Lobo, 8135-034 Almancil
Conrad Algarve in Quinta do Lago
The Conrad Algarve is a five star hotel located in Quinta do Lago. It has a partnership with the local golf courses, offering guests the opportunity to play the North, South and Laranjal courses. Guests can also enjoy the spa, swimming pool, restaurants and bar on site. The hotel offers a shuttle service for easy access to the golf courses and other attractions in the area.
- Location: Estr. da Quinta do Lago, 8135-106 Almancil
Pestana Golf Resort in Carvoeiro
The Pestana Golf Resort is a hotel complex located in Carvoeiro, ideal for golfers who want to explore different courses without having to travel. The resort has several golf courses on site, including Vale da Pinta, Gramacho, Silves Golf and Alto Golf. Guests can choose from flats, villas or hotel rooms, all of which offer comfortable surroundings and beautiful views of the golf courses or landscaped gardens. Facilities at the resort include restaurants, bars, swimming pools, tennis courts and a spa.
- Location: Apartado 10118401-908 , Carvoeiro , Lagoa, Algarve
The benefits of playing golf in the Algarve
Playing golf in the Algarve offers a multitude of benefits for golfers of all abilities. Firstly, the region’s mild climate, characterised by mild winters and warm summers, means that golf courses can be enjoyed all year round. Rainfall is also low, which reduces the risk of interruptions to play due to bad weather.
Secondly, the Algarve’s spectacular scenery provides an idyllic setting for golfers. The region’s golf courses are often located along the coast, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, limestone cliffs and sandy beaches. This provides golfers with a visually rich and stimulating experience as they play the various courses.
The Algarve is also an affordable destination for golf enthusiasts. Compared to other popular European golf destinations, such as Spain, France or the UK, green fees are generally lower in the Algarve. This affordability allows golfers to enjoy quality courses without breaking the bank.
In addition, the Algarve offers a wide variety of golf courses, with different challenges and styles to suit all tastes. Golfers can choose from championship courses, seaside courses and links-style courses. This diversity allows players to develop and refine their skills, while discovering new challenges at each course.
Finally, the Algarve is a prime destination for golfers thanks to the region’s excellent tourist infrastructure. Hotels, restaurants, cultural attractions and outdoor activities complement the golfing experience, allowing visitors to make the most of their stay in the Algarve.
The best restaurants for golfers in the Algarve
After a day on the course, golfers can relax and enjoy a delicious meal in one of the many restaurants in the area.
Here are some of the best restaurants for golfers in the Algarve:
- Casa Velha – Located in Quinta do Lago, this restaurant offers fine cuisine and local wines. Address Rua Formosa, Estr. da Quinta do Lago, 8135-024 Almancil.
- Maria’s Restaurant & Beach – This beachfront restaurant in Vale do Lobo offers stunning views and Mediterranean cuisine. Address Praia do Garrão Poente, 8135-170 Almancil.
- Vila Joya – For a gastronomic experience, Vila Joya is a Michelin-starred restaurant near Albufeira. Address Estrada da Galé, 8200-424 Guia.
The price of golf in the Algarve
The Algarve is a popular destination for golfers because of its excellent value for money, especially when it comes to green fees. These fees, which are the right to play on a golf course, vary depending on several factors, such as the prestige of the course, the season and the time of day.
In the Algarve, green fees are generally more affordable than in other popular European golf destinations such as Spain or France. This allows golfers to enjoy quality courses at more affordable prices.
Rates vary from course to course, and some clubs offer reduced rates for local residents, juniors and seniors. For example, on a less prestigious course, the green fee might be around €50 per person per round. On the other hand, at a top course, such as Quinta do Lago or Vale do Lobo, green fees can be as high as €150 per person per round.
It is important to note that rates are also likely to fluctuate depending on the season. During the peak tourist season, which is generally from April to October, green fees are often higher. In the low season, golfers can enjoy lower rates and a more leisurely playing experience.
In addition, golf clubs in the Algarve often offer special deals and discounts for golfers who wish to play multiple rounds or book packages that include accommodation and green fees. These offers allow golfers to enjoy a complete golfing holiday at an attractive price.
Booking a golf course
When booking a golf course in the Algarve, it is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season from April to September. During this period, demand is higher and availability can be scarce.
Hotels and resorts in the area often offer golf packages that include not only green fees, but also tee time reservations and even additional services such as golf equipment rental or lessons with the pros. These packages are an excellent option for those who want to simplify their organisation and benefit from exclusive offers.
If you prefer to organise your own golfing experience, you can book directly with the golf clubs. Club websites usually have online booking forms or contact details to check availability. Check out the special rates for groups, families or multi-day stays.
Golf Shops in Algarve
Whether you need clubs, balls, shoes or accessories, the Algarve has many options for buying golf equipment. Here are some popular shops where you can find everything you need:
- Nevada Bob’s Golf Shop – Located in Almancil, this shop offers a wide selection of golf brands and equipment. Address: Cruzamento das 4 estradas Estrada Nacional N125 Edifício Nevada, 8125-204 Quarteira.
- Carvoeiro Golf Shop – This shop in Carvoeira offers a personal service and a wide selection of golf equipment. Address Rua dos pescadores n131 Loja3, 8400-512 Carvoeiro.
- Inside Golf Shop Algarve – Another specialised shop where you can find everything you need for your golf game. Address Av. dos Descobrimentos n.0, 8125-308 Quarteira.
- Golf & Leisure Golf Shop: Address Av. 5 de Outubro No 382, 8135-103.
There are many other golf shops in the Algarve, many of which are in the same area. So I suggest you check the opening times, reviews and contact details directly on Google to find the right one near your accommodation or golf course.
Beware of the times that are posted and which may not be updated by the owners. I strongly advise you to call to check that the times are correct to avoid unnecessary journeys that could make you miss your round of golf!
In summary, the Algarve is a great destination for golfers, offering quality courses, great hotels and restaurants, and affordable prices. Whether you are a beginner or a professional golfer, you will find everything you need for an unforgettable golfing experience in the Algarve.
