5 of the best golf courses on the Algarve

Dom Pedro Old Course

Now the clocks have changed and temperatures have dropped, you might be thinking about putting your clubs away for the year.

But instead of entering golfing hibernation, why not head to the Algarve? Located on Portugal’s southern coast, the region has some excellent golf courses, and here are five of the best…

Dom Pedro Old Course
Located in upmarket Vilamoura, Dom Pedro is the so-called Grande Dame of Algarve courses. The Frank Pennink designed course was one of the first to be built in the region and remains one of the best. The picturesque course winds through thick parasol pines, giving golfers great views over the resort and the ocean beyond.

Clube Golf Oceanico Faldo
As the name suggests, this course was designed by none other than legendary British golfer, Sir Nick Faldo. The strategic course represents a Mediterranean twist on the classic course, with cacti and olive trees replacing the more familiar heather and woodland. It’s located just a short drive north of tourist town Albufeira and is one of two courses on the Amendoeira Golf Resort.

Vale do Lobo

There’s not just one 18-hole championship course at Vale do Lobo, but two: the Royal and the Ocean. While the Ocean sweeps down towards the beach, the Royal is perched high along cliff edges, giving golfers unparalleled views out across the Atlantic. Both courses are located just a short walk from Vale do Lobo resort, with its clutch of shops, restaurants and beautiful beach.
  

Onyria Palmares Beach & Golf Resort
Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, the Onyria Palmares course makes the most of its sumptuous setting in the Bay of Lagos to produce one of the region’s most breathtaking courses. The 27-hole course also includes a driving range for those looking to practise their swing. The course is located just outside Lagos, a picturesque harbour town that truly captures the spirit of the Algarve.

Quinta do Lago
With three courses set in nearly 2,000 acres of pine forested countryside, a trip to Quinta do Lago will put a smile on the face of even the most hard-to-please golfer. As well as being one of the region’s prettiest places to play a round, the course is also just a 20-minute drive from Faro airport, meaning you’ll be able to tee off sooner than you think…