Explore the Algarve’s Best Golf Courses
Three hundred days of sunshine a year make the Algarve a golfing destination of excellence. The weather, that is, and the wide selection of 32 golf courses spread along Portugal’s southernmost region, boasting views over the Atlantic, rolling hills, and some of the Algarve’s characteristic whitewashed towns and villages.
Want to find out more about golf holidays in the Algarve, the Algarve’s best golf courses, and golfing events you won’t want to miss? Then read on!
The Algarve’s best golf courses
With the popularity of golf in the Algarve having boomed over the last few decades thanks to the region’s mild winter weather, great accessibility via Faro International Airport, and exemplary courses, each new course that springs up is designed to perfection. However, with so many choices, it can be hard to know which way to turn, so here are some of the top contenders.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the central Algarve, nearing the Spanish border, Monte Rei is often cited as the Algarve’s number-one golf course, thanks to its breathtaking mountainous scenery and perfectly manicured greens. Ideal for any level of golfer, the course is described as a “fantastic visual treat for the senses”, promising a day to remember for golfers from amateur to professional.
27 holes await amid some of the Algarve’s best scenery at Palmares Golf Course near Portimão. Billed the “golfing jewel in the crown of the Algarve”, the course’s location near Meia Praia beach provides sweeping views of the sea and soaring cliffs beyond. Divided into three 9s, this course is challenging, offering excitement for more experienced golfers.
Golf Courses in the Golden Triangle
Though the entirety of the Algarve’s coastline is dotted with golf courses, one area provides a vibrant array of options: the golden triangle of Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Vilamoura. Boasting no less than 13 golf courses, the area is home to pedigree courses with high levels of charm, striking scenery, and great designs.
Some of the highest-ranked options include the challenging water obstacles at the Dom Pedro course in Vilamoura, medium difficulty Quinta do Lago North and South courses, the former orange grove Laranjal course, and the challenging Royal and Ocean courses at Vale do Lobo.
Straying inland from the coast, the first new course in the Algarve in 10 years has just opened at the Ombria resort. A course built for strategy, grounded in sustainability, and “carved by nature”, its variety makes it both fun and challenging.
Golf courses near Carvoeiro
Another hotspot for golf courses is the Carvoeiro area, where golf enthusiasts are sure to find a course to meet their experience level.
With interesting greens, elevation changes, and a setting that takes golfers from housing to a more rural setting featuring rocky outcrops, dry stone walls, and gorgeous native trees, the formerly 9-turned-18-hole course at the Gramacho Golf Course in Carvoeiro promises a faster-paced challenge on a course rated as “easy”.
Heading away from the Carvoeiro coast is the par 72 18-hole, medium-difficulty Vale da Pinta course, framed by olive groves, with stunning views of the Monchique hills as a backdrop. An easily walkable course, it promises to keep golfers on their toes with unique holes that get golfers thinking at every turn.
Other options include the challenging 10-time host of the Portuguese Open and the Algarve’s first-ever golf course, Penina, near Portimão. Then there’s the Morgado course, which is built into a valley, routed among lakes and vineyards between Portimao and Monchique, followed by the Vale de Milho Course near Carvoeiro and the two challenging courses at the Amendoeira Golf Resort.
Golf Events in the Algarve
Golf season in the Algarve only begins once the summer sun eases slightly, with golf events held from November to May across the region. These include:
- November: The Quinta do Lago Golden Golf Tournament and the Dona Filipa International Amateur Golf Tournament in Vale do Lobo
- December: The Sotavento Golf Trophy in Tavira, Praia Verde
- January: The Dom Pedro International Golf Classic
- February: The East Algarve Golf Trophy in Tavira and the Vale do Lobo JJW International Amateur Senior Tour
- March: The Spring Amateur Golf Tournament at San Lorenzo, Vale do Lobo
- May: The Penina Golf Week Tournament
From so many events to choose from, you’re sure to find one to either take part in or spectate!
The Rocha Brava Village Resort – your golfing accommodation of choice
When choosing accommodation for your golfing holiday, you’ll want to select a location within easy reach of the Algarve’s best golf courses. Located in Carvoeiro, only a stone’s throw from some of the best golfing the region has to offer, the Rocha Brava Village Resort boasts comfortable villas perfect for relaxing after a day in the sun. From three pool complexes, four tennis courts, and a gym to its very own restaurant, the resort ensures every comfort is at your fingertips, allowing you to take in every minute of golfing excellence.
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