Quinta do Lago - North Course
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72
LENGTH: 6,488 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: WILLIAM MITCHELL
FACILITIES: DRIVING RANGE
The Championship course within the pineclad estate, has played host to the Portuguese Open seven times. The layout favours the long hitter but accuracy of shots is needed to score well. Strategic bunkering, occasional water hazards and large, contoured greens are the main challenges. The signature hole is the beautiful par-3 15th with a long carry over a large lake to the green set amongst pine trees. The 8th, 10th and 18th are excellent testing par-4’s for low-handicapped players.
Quinta do Lago - South Course
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72 -
LENGTH: 6,205 METRES
COURSE DESIGNERS: WILLIAM MITCHELL, WILLIAM ROQUEMORE AND JOSEPH LEE
FACILITIES: DRIVING RANGE 9TH TEE BAR
Named after the adjacent nature reserve. In basically the same style as the Quinta do Lago North course, the South is notable for its four fine par-5 holes and many doglegs where accuracy off the tee is important. The tricky downhill par-3 14th with its green well defended by bunkers on either side is an outstanding challenge. A majestic 480 metre par-5 finishing hole demands a drive over a lake and between fairway bunkers to set up the ideal second shot, with the approach up a steep rise to the green.
Quinta do Lago - San Lorenzo
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72
LENGTH: 6,238 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: ROCKY ROQUEMORE
FACILITIES: DRIVING RANGE
This magnificent 18-hole layout opened in 1989, and is currently considered the fifth best course in continental Europe by Golf World magazine. It comprises several scenic and testing holes culminating in the memorable 18th with an exhilarating approach to the well defended green across a lake. The 6th, 7th and 8th are tight, challenging holes skirting water hazards along the right hand side. The immaculately maintained course, owned by Le Meridien Dona Filipa Hotel, is open to visitors. Priority is given to hotel guests who pay nominal green-fees. Course privileges are also granted to Le Meridien Penina Hotel guests.
Pinheiros Altos
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72
LENGTH: 6,236 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: RONALD FREAM
FACILITIES: GOLF ACADEMY
An independent 18-hole course built on the Quinta do Lago estate. Here is an unusual layout with two nines of contrasting character. The outward nine meander through typical Agarvian pine woods whereas many water hazards must be negotiated coming home. The course embraces part of the Ria Formosa nature reserve, making this another course of beauty and challenge for players of all standards. The outstanding par-3 5th calls for a mid-iron shot played across a valley full of umbrella pines to a heavily contoured green. Hole number 12 is a par-5 that requires careful positioning of shots to avoid a watery grave on the left.
Vale do Lobo - Royal Course
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72
LENGTH: 6,050 METRES
COURSE DESIGNERS: SIR HENRY COTTON AND ROCKY ROQUEMORE
Combines the former Yellow 9-hole course with nine new holes set amongst rolling pine terrain. It incorporates the world famous par-3, now the 16th, with an extensive carry over the red sandstone cliffs, one of the most photographed golf courses in Europe. Roquemores signature hole is the par-3 9th over a lake to a spectacular semi-island green. Another fine new hole is the challenging par-4 12th with sharply contoured fairways and a large green bunkered on all sides. Subtle improvements have been introduced on the holes of the former Yellow course making this new course one of the most spectacular on the coast.
Vale do Lobo - Ocean Course
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 71
LENGTH: 6,050 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: SIR HENRY COTTON
Comprising the former Orange 9-hole loop and the Green, the Ocean course has existed as such since mid 1996. Built mainly on undulating coastal land it features somewhat narrow fairways amongst umbrella pines as well as a few interesting holes close to the beach where the fickle sea breezes demand extra concentration. The 178 metre par-3, which runs parallel to the beach, is a good example of this feature. Two par-5 holes in the last three ensure a demanding finish to this excellent holiday style course.
Vilamoura - Old Course
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 73
LENGTH: 6,254 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: FRANK PENNINK
FACILITIES: DRIVING RANGE
This classic English course layout (formerly known as Vilamoura I) with mainly narrow pinetree-lined fairways, was opened in 1969. It was closed for nine months in 1996 and 1997 for major renovation work to the irrigation system, re-seeding and general upgrading, and a completely new clubhouse. This is one of the favourite Algarve courses of both visiting and resident golfers. One of the most spectacular holes is the attractive par-3 4th where the tee-shot must clear not only the water but also a pine and a bunker fronting the green. The back nine has three par-5’s with the long 16th requiring three precise shots to avoid the menacing pines and to reach the green safely.
Vilamoura - Pinhal
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72
LENGTH: 6,300 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: FRANK PENNINK
MODIFICATIONS: ROBERT TRENT JONES JNR
FACILITIES: DRIVING RANGE
Originally opened in 1976 (formerly known as Vilamoura II) and several holes were re-constructed in 1985 to improve its playability and appeal to all levels of golfers. Pine trees are also a strong feature meaning that accurate shots are required on most holes. The par-4 4th is an interesting hole where one needs to play for position from the tee as a lake comes into play on the approach shot. Careful play is also required on the par-3 12th with its contoured green guarded by bunkers. The excellent closing hole is a par-4 with a downhill approach shot to a well-bunkered sloping green.
Vilamoura - Laguna
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72
LENGTH: 6,133 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: JOSEPH LEE
FACILITIES: DRIVING RANGE AND ACADEMY
Formally known as Vilamoura III, this parkland course has many heavily bunkered greens and several water hazards to take advantage of the high water table. It comprises the former East and South loops opened in the early 1990’s. More exposed than the other courses at this large resort, Laguna is often influenced by the sea breezes. The 9th is a tricky par-4 with an old well in the middle of the fairway and a lake on the right, all the way to the green.
Vilamoura - Millenium
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72
LENGTH: 6,143 METRES
COURSE DESIGNERS: 1ST 9 HOLES - MARTIN HAWTREE, 2ND 9 HOLES - JOSEPH LEE
MODIFICATIONS: MARTIN HAWTREE
FACILITIES: DRIVING RANGE AND ACADEMY
Opened in May 2000. This is an extremely attractive, quality course. It is situated adjacent to the Laguna layout with which it shares a spacious, modern clubhouse. The first nine holes are completely new and were built mainly in amongst typical Algarvian pinewoods. The par-3 6th with its lakeside green is destined to be one of the signature holes. The back nine holes, part of the former 27-hole Laguna course, are located on flattish undulating terrain and have been refurbished and partially modified.
Vila Sol
HOLES: 27 - PAR: 72 (EACH 18 HOLE COMBINATION)
LENGTH: 1-18–6,335 METRES, 10-27–6,173 METRES, 1-9 & 19-27–6,320 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: DONALD STEEL
FACILITIES: DRIVING RANGE AND ACADEMY
The course is laid out on ideal undulating terrain in amongst natural woods, mainly pine, carob and fig trees, and little artificial landscaping was required during construction. Several water hazards were, however, introduced. The original 18-hole course, opened in 1991, was the venue of the Portuguese Open in 1992 / 3. In September 2000, a third 9 hole loop was completed, allowing for three different combinations of 18 holes. With its large, contoured and often speedy greens, together with several long, testing par-4 holes, the course is an excellent challenge for golfers of all handicap levels.
Pine Cliffs
HOLES: 9 - PAR: 33
LENGTH: 2,324 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: MARTIN HAWTREE
FACILITIES: GOLF ACADEMY
The spectacular clifftop Pine Cliffs 9-hole layout is set against a glorious backdrop of the Atlantic. Only 2,324 metres long and with one par-5 hole, it is a pleasant holiday course set amongst umbrella pines, although narrow, undulating fairways demand accurate placing of shots. The piece de resistance is the last hole, a par-3 aptly named ‘Devils Parlour’, where a long shot from the clifftop tee must carry a deep chasm in the reddish cliffs in order to reach the green located close to the hotel grounds. Another memorable hole is the short par-4 2nd where one is tempted to thread the drive between two tall pine trees not far short of the well-guarded green. An ideal course for the casual golfer or beginner.
Salgados
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72
LENGTH: 6,080 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: PEDRO DE VASCONCELLOS
FACILITIES: DRIVING RANGE
This coastline course features several links holes by the beach, but with a difference. Salgados has by far the largest number of water hazards to be found on any course in the Algarve-fourteen in all. Accuracy of shot-making is therefore of extreme importance. This is specifically the case with the par-5 6th where there is a large lake on the right and rough to the left of the narrow fairway. The par-3 12th is an interesting hole where players cross the lake over a long wooden bridge. Sea and land breezes across the low-lying terrain affect the playing conditions, making this a challenging course that demands concentration and offers a great contrast to the other Algarve courses.
Vale da Pinta
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 71
LENGTH: 6,151 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: RONALD FREAM
FACILITIES: CHIPPING GREEN AND DAVID LEADBETTER ACADEMY
The Monchique Hills form the spectacular backdrop to this superbly designed course. Most of the natural contours of the terrain were retained as were the majority of the centuries old olive trees, one of which has been estimated to be over 1,200 years of age. Large, sometimes deep bunkers and fine, fast undulating greens are strong features in the course. The par-3 7th is one of the signature holes, played over a valley to a well-bunkered wide, but not deep, green demanding a high, soft-landing shot. Another gem is the par-5 4th which, after the tee-shot, is all downhill, with trees encroaching onto the fairway.
Palmares
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 71
LENGTH: 5,961 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: FRANK PENNINK
FACILITIES: DRIVING RANGE
Palmares course is famous for its annual Almond Blossom tournament week in early February. The breathtaking scenery can be appreciated from most of the course, with views over the Alvor river estuary, beaches and the bay of Lagos. On the outward nine, there are five authentic links holes amongst the dunes close to the ocean exposed to the prevailing winds. The most demanding hole is the long par-5 5th running roughly parallel to the shore, requiring great concentration in order to avoid distraction from unclad sunbathers! The other holes extend through hillsides and valleys with almond and fig trees, palms and pines. The par-3 10th, requiring a long iron or a fairway wood is over a valley, which is all carry from tee to green.
Penina - Championship Course
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 73
LENGTH: 6,343 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: SIR HENRY COTTON
FACILITIES: GOLF ACADEMY
Golf in the Algarve teed off here in 1966 with this masterpiece layout by Sir Henry Cotton. It has hosted the Portuguese Open 9 times, including 1998, 2000 and 2005. The imposing Le Meridien Penina Hotel overlooks the course, built on flattish parkland terrain with fairways lined by countless trees, and containing several tricky water hazards. It includes several long par-3 and par-4 holes, requiring both length and accuracy. Two of the memorable holes are the scenic dogleg par-5 5th with a canal, lake and contoured green, and the daunting 197 metre long par-3 13th with water right up to the putting surface. The par-38 back nine starts and ends with two par-5 holes, a true test of skill.
Penina - Resort Course
HOLES: 9 - PAR: 35
LENGTH: 2,987 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: SIR HENRY COTTON
FACILITIES: GOLF ACADEMY
Also designed by Cotton, this full-sized 9-hole course, although less demanding than the Championship one, has several challenging holes. Holes 1, 2 and 3 are all tree-lined dogleg par-4’s where keeping to the fairway is a definite advantage. The only par-5 is the 499 metre 5th hole, long and straight with an elevated green, a typical Penina feature.The par-4 6th, with out of bounds to the right, requires a precise drive through a narrow avenue of tall trees, whereas the drive on the dogleg 7th needs to be a controlled draw followed by an approach steered left of a greenside lake that is too close to the green for comfort. A long par-3 with many bunkers and a long par-4 finish this pleasant course.
Parque da Floresta
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72
LENGTH: 5,787 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: PEPE GANCEDO
FACILITIES: GOLF ACADEMY
A challenging layout and built mainly on hilly terrain with both coastal and inland views. The course has a variety of interesting and unusual holes, starting with a long sloping par-4 requiring an approach shot where a large hollow on the left comes into play. On the short fifth, only 88 metres from the yellow tees, played from an exposed hilltop to the green on the crown of a hillock, club selection can vary widely in the fickle winds. The memorable par-3 15th is played over a valley with a small lake. Another lake comes into play on the par-3 11th and par-4 16th and 17th holes.
Quinta da Ria
LOCATION: TAVIRA
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72
LENGTH: 6,016 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: ROCKY ROQUEMORE
FACILITIES: GOLF ACADEMY
OTHER: SISTER COURSE TO QUINTA DA CIMA
This spectacular 18 hole golf course is found just to the east of Tavira and spreads along an almost flat surface down to the Ria Formosa river itself, with stunning views of the coast. It comprising two loops of 9 holes, each loop having two par 5’s, five par 4’s and two par 3’s. The total length of this course is 6016 metres. Five lakes have been strategically positioned creating a daunting challenge particularly on the back nine. The smoothly undulating greens are well protected by bunkers. More than 300 trees, such as olive and carob trees have been transplanted in order to maintain the ancient border of the course and the typical features of the region's landscape. The surrounding orange trees and vineyards help to make the course's country landscape even more.
Quinta da Cima
LOCATION: TAVIRA
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 72
LENGTH: 6,016 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: ROCKY ROQUEMORE
FACILITIES: GOLF ACADEMY
OTHER: SISTER COURSE TO QUINTA DA RIA
The Cima course is rated by many as the finest on the situated just to the east of the ancient town of Tavira some 30 mins drive east of Faro. It is a good, but fair, challenge to all levels of player with both right and left dog-legs and greens well protected by bunkers and lakes. A pretty, flowing stream crosses holes 4, 5, 6 and 13 requiring accuracy and length to reach the green. The course runs through undulating land just inland from the adjacent Quinta da Ria sister course and is bordered by a variety of trees and orange groves. A large lake comes into play on the finishing holes with spectacular views towards the coast.
Boavista GC - Lagos
LOCATION: LAGOS, WESTERN ALGARVE
HOLES: 18 - PAR: 71
LENGTH: 6,053 METRES
COURSE DESIGNER: HOWARD SWANN
FACILITIES: DRIVING RANGE AND ACADEMY
A welcome addition to the Western Algarve situated on the cliff tops inbetween Lagos and Praia da Luz, golfers will leave with great memories of the spectacular views of the mountains and sea. A challenging and enjoyable course for golfers of all levels with two distinctive sections to this course offering a variety of holes. In part the course is bordered by beautiful, sub-tropical landscaping with the signature hole on the outward nine being a stunning par-4, 7th hole set against a glorious back drop of the Atlantic with breathtaking views of the Monchique hills creating a fantastic backdrop. There is water on the back nine creating some interesting carries to reach the green.
