Golfing In The Algarve

Golfing in the Algarve





Only two to three hours away by air from most of Europe's major airports is the sunny

Algarve in Southern Portugal. Known for its spectacular coastline and rugged mountain

scenery the Algarve is one of Europe's premier golfing destinations. There are no less

than 24 golf courses spread out along this most southern province of Portugal, several of

which are classified as championship golf courses hosting many international golfing

events.

Most of the golf courses can be found to the west of Faro, including the famous San

Lorenzo course - rated as the second-best course in Europe. Set in the splendid

surroundings of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, the San Lorenzo course has become a

'must play' course for all those who come to visit the Algarve for its golf. There are

some challenging holes and tricky water features to negotiate around the course, and

when coupled with the amazing scenery, it makes for an epic round of golf.

Further along the Algarve coastline is the Royal Course at Val de Lobo. Incorporating

fairways and greens set in an undulating landscape of pine trees, the Royal Course

serves up a fine golfing experience for all who come here. The course includes the

famous par 3 9th hole, which takes players over a beautiful lake and onto a semi-island

green - it's a challenge for even the most experienced of golfers! But, if you fancy a sea

view then you might be more at home at Val de Lobo's other course - the Ocean Course.

The Ocean Course is set along undulating cliffs that descend down to golden sandy

beaches. Narrow fairways are a feature of this course, as are the ochre coloured rocks

that line the cliff sides and snake along the course edge. Adding to the challenge golf

players must compensate for sea breezes that regularly caress the course. All in all, it

makes for a memorable round of golf.

Southwest Portugal

Eight of the Algarve's twenty-four courses are situated in the Southwest. Within 20-

minutes of Faro is the Vale do Milho - an ideal practice course on which beginners can

learn the game and holidaymakers can sharpen their golfing skills. A little further to the

west is Quinta do Gramacho - Europe's first 'double-nine' designed course, with only 9

fairways but 18 holes. If you want a unique golfing experience, then Quinta do Gramacho

is the perfect course on which to play.

For those on a tour of the golf courses in the Algarve, the Alto Golf course is sure worth

a visit. Situated close to the coastline it offers fine views of the sea and the nearby

mountains. The course was designed by Sir Henry Cotton - three-times British Open

Champion - and takes in fairways and greens along some beautiful undulating terrain

surrounded by vineyards.

Finally, no golfing visit to the Algarve is complete without playing a round of golf at

Penina. Located close to the fishing village of Alvor, Penina was the first grass course in

the Algarve. It is rated as one of Europe's finest and plays host to a range of international

tournaments each year.

Visitor Information

Faro is the main international airport in the Algarve. Most of the golf courses are located

to the west of the Algarve, Parque de Floresta golf course - the Algarve's most westerly

course - being just under an hour's drive from the airport. Car hire is available from

Faro airport.