Top 5 Algarve Golf Courses
For golf-loving Brits, Portugal's Algarve region is something of a mecca.
The Algarve provides superb golf courses, sunny weather - and is less than three hours away by air. You can hop on an early-morning flight from Manchester or London, and be playing a round of golf in the Algarve by late afternoon!
In addition to all that golfing pleasure, the Algarve offers top nightlife and fabulous food.
In this article we've ranked the top five golf courses in the region - which is no easy task, since there are some great contenders.
Penina Championship Course
The very first golf course to be built in Portugal is still one of the best.
Designed by Sir Henry Cotton, the Algarve’s Penina Championship Course has been compared to courses you find in the Home Counties - and is therefore rather unique compared to other courses in Portugal.
It's almost as if it has been transplanted from Surrey.
This tree-lined golf course does have some margin for error - you get away with the occasional wild T-shot - and it's a great venue for bagging a few eagles.
Quinta do Lago
Comprising three courses - North, South and Laranjal (all of which are considered world class) - Quinta do Lago is a truly stunning all-round golf resort.
Aside from the fabulous golfing action, it features great hotels with friendly staff, pools, kids clubs, spas and comfortable rooms.
Price-wise, Quinta do Lago is in the more expensive bracket when it comes to Algarve golf trips - but many would agree it's worth every euro-cent.
Onyria Palmares Resort
Located on the coast, Onyria Palmares Resort boasts some great views down to Lagos.
It has 27 holes and is a unique mixture of parkland and links-style courses - an attribute that sets it apart from most other Algarve golf venues.
Nine of the holes are rather lengthy, so allowing for wind is a must.
Asides from golf, Lagos boasts some excellent beaches to enjoy - perhaps before going out to experience the buzzing local bar scene.
San Lorenzo
Regulars on the Portuguese golf circuit will be familiar with San Lorenzo, located on the coast.
Indeed, the Atlantic Ocean is so close you're as likely to get your ball stuck on the beach as in a bunker. Golf hazards don’t get much more magnificent than this (be sure to let the pedestrians past before you start thwacking that ball back on to the course!).
Tree-lined San Lorenzo is frequently ranked among the best golf courses in the Algarve, partly thanks to its stunning views.
Royal Course - Vale do Lobo
The Royal Course at Vale do Lobo is beautiful from start to finish, but the par-3 16th hole stands out. This 237-yarder runs along the cliffs with the beach to your left and is a great deal of fun.
However long it takes you to get the ball in the hole, you'll be bowled over by the tremendous coastal views that this Algarve golf course boasts.
Tips for golfing in the Algarve
Go on the 'shoulder' seasons to save money
On a budget? Consider visiting for your Algarve golfing holiday in November to February, or late June to August, when the green fees are reduced.
That said, costs vary a great deal, with the most famous (and best) Algarve golf courses still being on the costly side no matter when you visit.
Best golf resorts in the Algarve for groups?
If you're travelling in a group then the Algarve resorts of Albufeira and Vilamoura are good options, since they combine excellent golf with nightlife right on its doorstep.
Best months for golf in the Algarve?
The best time to enjoy some Algarve golf is April to June and September to October - when it's still warm and sunny, but not so hot as to put you off your stroke!
That said, you can enjoy golf in the Algarve all year round.
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