The Algarve is where the ‘golf holiday’ began many years ago, and it remains one of the most popular golfing destinations in Europe today.
There are six main bases to consider when planning an Algarve golf holiday, three obvious choices and three slightly less so. The former are Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, and Albufeira, all of which need little introduction and are within easy reach of dozens of picture-perfect courses, with the likes of San Lorenzo, Vilamoura Old Course and Quinta do Logo Golf all among the options.
The three less obvious options include Alvor, with the fantastic Penina Hotel & Golf Resort, Lagos, home to Palmares Golf Course, and Tavira which boasts one of the most well-renowned courses in the world, Monte Rei.
Must play
Often considered to be one of the finest courses in continental Europe, the Monte Rei North Course is located in a privileged position at the foothills of Eastern Algarve, with stunning views of Serra do Caldeirao Mountains.
The golf at Monte Rei is all about ‘experience’, with the tee time intervals being longer than normal and each hole naturally blending into the canvas of the landscape. Here golfers are able to enjoy their game in a relaxed and undisturbed environment – it really does feel like millionaire’s golf!
Must stay
For many, Amendeoira is considered as the best golf resort in Portugal. The venue is well positioned just 20-minutes outside the lively town of Albufeira, and there are a great selection of facilities to take advantage of. The resort places a huge importance on golf. There are two exceptional on-site courses, Faldo Course and O’Connor Course, and most packages include complimentary shared buggies and range balls.
Alternatively, Villamoura town centre is a great hotspot for nearby golf, with Dom Pedro Vilamoura and Hotel Vila Gale Marina always very popular amongst golfers.
Must see
There is a catalogue of things to see in The Algarve such as Praia da Marinha Beach and Faro Old Town, but the pick of the bunch is Vilamoura Marina. A hub of activity, this fantastic tourist attraction has beautiful surroundings, with plenty of bars and restaurants, making it the perfect location to enjoy an evening out either as a family or in a group.
Inside tips
When visiting the Algarve we believe it is well worth hiring a car if only to give you the incentive to explore the region. Too many tourists rarely stray beyond the obvious watering holes and courses and thus return home having experienced little of the local culture. Spread your wings and you will find the Algarve has much more to offer than you might have imagined.
GETTING THERE: Regular direct flights from most UK airports head straight into the gateway to Faro in less than three hours.
WEATHER: The weather in Portugal is very similar to Spain with little rainfall and the average summer temperatures reaching 27°C. The Algarve guarantees over 300 days of sunshine per year!
CURRENCY: Euro
To find the very best golf holiday packages to the Algarve, visit Golfbreaks.com – the Golf Travel Experts since 1998.
