Our top Algarve golf courses

Algarve Golf Courses

So without further ado here is the run down of our top Algarve golf courses. It is nearly impossible to imagine today, but until 1966, golfing and golf courses had not even graced the Algarve but that all that was to change when legendary golfer Sir Henry Cotton laid out the Championship course at Penina. Now, 50 years later, the region is a premier location in Europe, tantamount with golfing and never far from the minds of ardent golfers. Unsurprisingly, the Algarve is of par excellence and more often than not, a poll-topping golf destination – But don’t take my word for it, find out for yourself as the proof is in the putting. It is a challenge in itself to single out a single resort for recommendation, especially as so many are worthy of note, but next on our list of top Algarve golf courses is the hightly-esteemed and internationally known Vale do Lobo course. The renowned Vale do Lobo commands a reputation for being home to two of what some would describe as being the finest golf courses in the Algarve, the Royal and the Ocean. An honour earned by twice hosting the Portuguese Open in 2002 and 2003. The courses themselves are characterised with umbrella pine and fig tree lined fairways which leading Royal patrons to play upon the lush green ‘16th’ course elevated along the sea-facing cliffs, while Ocean patrons are directed towards the sandy beach below.

Royal Golf Course

The internationally renowned Royal Golf Course boasts both 18 and 9 hole courses, the latter of which would be suggested for intermediate golfers and those looking to enhance their game over the course of their golf holiday. Visitors to the course can expect to pay green fees of €95 for 9 holes. Buggies and trolleys are also available at an additional cost.

Other attractions

After a long day practising that swing (and before your back succumbs to the backache) guests should take time to explore the Vale do Lobo, or what has become known as the ‘Golf Coast’. Famed for its beaches, marinas and of course its golf courses the resort has everything you would need to complete your luxury golf holiday. The first port of call has to be Vilamora Marina, between Albufeira and Faro. Home to not just sleek yachts and formidable ocean-going liners, the lively marina is complete with high-end waterfront restaurants and elegant cocktail bars. For those in search of something equally as charming but a little more removed, visitors should venture south to the quaint seaside village of Alvor. The age-old village has retained much of its charm and original Moorish architecture with visitors charmed by the old town and idyllic harbour. A wander along the winding streets reveal a plethora of bars and eating establishments which are sure to cater for all tastes. Nearby there are rolling dunes and pristine Blue Flag beaches.