The Best Golf Courses In The Algarve
The Algarve is one of the world’s most popular golf destinations. And with its expansive range of courses fit for golfers at all levels (not to mention the perpetual sunshine), it’s easy to see why. Take a look at 10 of the best golf courses in the Algarve, and find out why they’re so popular with amateurs and professionals alike.
1. Monte Rei Golf & Country Club
Par: 72
Green fees:
From €170
Location: Vila Nova de Cacela
Monte Rei tops most lists of the best golf courses in the Algarve — and when you play there, the reason is clear. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Monte Rei is nestled between the Serra do Caldeirão mountains and the ocean, giving players incredible views from every hole. The course itself is suitable for all handicaps, with broad fairways, substantial water hazards and perfectly-positioned bunkers. Take in the stunning mountain and sea views as you play, then finish with tapas on the veranda, or a meal in the Michelin-starred restaurant.
2. Palmares Golf
Green fees: From €84
Location: Lagos
Palmares has a slightly unusual setup: it consists of three 9-hole courses, giving you the opportunity to tailor your round. Take in all 27 holes, play a swift 9, or create an 18-hole course of your choosing. Each course blends well into its surroundings. The Alvor course is set in parkland, so you can play through mature forest with glimpses of the sea and sand. The Lagos course takes you round the lakes, and finally the Praia course descends into the sand dunes. It’s a great way to explore the Algarvian landscape in a single round of golf..
3. Dom Pedro Old Course
Par: 73
Green fees: From €149
Location: Vilamoura
This classic course is renowned for being only the second golf course to be established in the Algarve — and it’s still one of the best courses out there. Based in Vilamoura, it’s a well-located course for one of the most popular regions in the Algarve: the Golden Triangle. The Dom Pedro Old starts with a few straightforward holes, before descending into trickier setups. The narrow fairways and overhanging trees make this a relatively tough course — but it’s certainly a great experience steeped in charm and history.
4. Faldo Course At Amendoeira
Par: 72
Green fees: From €149
Location: Alcantarilha
Designed by (and named for) Sir Nick Faldo, this course is known for its dramatic views, testing layout, and lush landscape. It’s tougher than its sister course, the O’Connor, so it’s ideal for any player who’s looking for a challenge. With cacti and olive trees dominating the rough, desert scrub bunkers, and few surrounding buildings, the Faldo course offers a truly unique golfing experience.
5. Royal Golf Course, Vale do Lobo
Green fees: From €70
Location: Vale De Lobo
The Royal is home to one of the most iconic holes in Portuguese golf. The 16th hole’s cliff-top carryover is so unique that it’s claimed to be one of the most photographed holes in Europe — so it’s a mouthwatering prospect for any keen golfer. The rest of the course weaves through parkland and plays along the beach, offering spectacular views of the ocean. It’s a pleasure to play for golfers of all standards.
6. San Lorenzo Golf Course
Green fees: From €152
Location: Quinta do Lago
Based in the Golden Triangle, the San Lorenzo course is easy to access from your villa or resort. Quinta do Lago is also home to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, which borders the course — so if you’re lucky, you may spot some of the region’s wildlife as you play. The course itself is demanding yet stunning, with vista views opening up over the ocean early on, and a spectacular final hole that’s sure to leave you itching to return.
7. Pine Cliffs Golf Course
Green fees:
From €49
Location: Praia da Falésia
Pine Cliffs is a 9-hole course, so it may not be quite enough to quench your golfing thirst. However, if you’re looking to squeeze in a short round before dinner, it could be the ideal addition to your itinerary. Perched atop the umber cliffs that rise up from the Atlantic, you’ll get spectacular ocean views as you play. Plus, experience the challenge of a tricky cliffside carryover shot on the 6th hole.
8. Penina Golf Resort
Par: 73
Green fees: From €85
Location: Portimao
The Penina Golf Resort is home to the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course: the first 18-hole course to be established in the Algarve. The Portuguese Open has also been played here no less than 10 times — so it’s a great course to experience the pedigree of Portuguese golf first-hand. This course is far from forgiving, with plenty of water hazards and undulating greens to deceive even the most experienced players. With 6 bars and restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find a way to relax and recharge after the challenge of this Penina course.
Find your ideal golf trip villa close to the best courses in the Algarve
No golf trip is complete without fantastic villa accommodation. villa accommodation. We specialise in sourcing the very best villas across the Algarve — and creating a tailor-made holiday that suits you and your golf group. Whether you want a villa near a golf course, or a luxury resort room that overlooks the fairway, we’ll take care of it for you. Take a look at some of the best villas in the Algarve and find the perfect place to stay for your golf group.