My Top 5 Algarve courses that should be on every visitors itinerary:
Is there any better way to spend a day than enjoying a leisurely game of golf? I’ve spent many happy days golfing and count myself lucky to have played on some of the world’s finest courses.
A longstanding pastime of mine, golf has become an increasingly important factor in holiday planning. While there may be more to holidaying than proximity to a landmark golf course, it certainly doesn’t hurt.
I know I’m not alone in my enthusiasm for golfing holidays, and with winter on the horizon – the best time to play golf in the Algarve – I thought I would share my top 5 local courses.
QUINTA DO LAGO SOUTH, ALGARVE
With its year round sunshine and dramatic coastal backdrop, it’s easy to see why Portugal (most notably the Algarve) is one of the most popular destinations for golf enthusiasts. Amongst the many highly rated courses though, Quinta do Lago is the undisputed jewel in the crown. Having won an ‘Editor’s Choice Award for Best International Resorts’ from Golf Digest in 2015, Quinta do Lago was also awarded the accolade of ‘Europe’s Best Golf Venue’ at the 2015 and 2016 World Golf Awards.
Opened for play in 1974, The Quinta do Lago South course is the most renowned course in the area, having hosted the Portuguese Open on numerous occasions. Unlike some of the other courses on the list, it is a course that will appeal to and challenge all levels, requiring long drives. Suitable for the average handicap golfer, it’s also home to the Paul McGinley Academy for those seeking additional tuition.
MONTE REI, ALGARVE
An ideal option for the sun seekers amongst you, Monte Rei is located in picturesque, unspoilt Algarve countryside. One of the newer courses on my list having only opened in 2007, Monte Rei has rapidly risen through the ranks to become an internationally popular course. If you’re planning a trip to Four Seasons Fairways, it’s definitely worth a visit.
TROIA, LISBON
Located in Lisbon, Troia is an ideal course for lower handicap golfers looking for a test of skill and enjoyable for all others. With its magnificent coastal views and fairways lined with pine trees and sand dunes, Troia offers some beautiful holes. It is as memorable as it is challenging.
MILLENNIUM COURSE, ALGARVE
Reflecting typical Algarve style, the course boasts lots of pine trees surrounding the holes and is very well presented. Being relatively open with minimal hazards, it’s ideal for leisure golfers, although there are a few more challenging holes to pique the interest of more proficient players.
OCEAN GOLF COURSE, ALGARVE
A course credited with helping to put the Algarve on the map for golfing, it’s one of the most picturesque on the list with its stunning ocean views. With some narrow fairways and undulating terrain, it requires a certain amount of accuracy, but if you’re in the Algarve it’s a must play course and only a short drive from Four Seasons Fairways.
Very proud of having walked around with him for the first time, Daddy´s Little Angel couldn´t wait to tell everyone about it. “My father is the best golfer in the whole world,” she claimed ”He can play for hours and hardly ever lets the ball go into those little holes.”
