The first golf course in the Algarve was a small rudimentary layout built in the 1920s between Portimão and the beach at Praia da Rocha. Because of a lack of fresh water the greens were actually ‘browns’ and consisted of a mix of sand and oil. Henry Cotton put the Algarve on the golf map. In the mid 1960s at Penina he designed the first proper grass course. During the 1970s, 80s and 90s golf courses mushroomed along Portugal’s south coast and golf is now played at 16 courses from Faro west to Sagres.
Golf Lessons
We are delighted to offer clients who are staying at Oceânico Resorts, golf lessons at Palmares Golf Course with José Dias, Oceânico’s Pro. Contact us for more details on availability and how to book.
Click here to view map of Western Algarve Golf Courses
Palmares
18 holes – Par 71, length 5961m (Meia Praia, Lagos)
Palmares course is famous for the annual Almond Blossom tournament week early in February. The breathtaking scenery can be appreciated from most of the golf 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 and exposed to the prevailing winds.
For discounted rates please enquire Contact us.
Golfe do Morgado
18 holes – Par 73, length 6399m
This new championship golf course lies on the lower slopes of Monchique. In golf course construction terms, the terrain is unique in the Algarve, reminiscent of rolling parkland with wonderful views inland to the hills. The first 9 holes are relatively benign; the second 9 are more hilly with many of the intrinsic hazards created by the natural contours of the land.
Boavista Golf
18 holes – Par 71, length 6053m (Between Lagos and Luz)
Set within a 260 acre area, much of this spectacular new 6053m long course is surrounded by land left in its original undeveloped state. Designed by Howard Swan, it is built on naturally rolling terrain with hundreds of trees and palms. The course affords golfers spectacular views over Lagos coastline as well as inland towards Monchique.
For discounted rates please enquire Contact us.
Alto Golf
18 holes – Par 72, length 6125m
Located near Alvor, this course is set in rolling countryside with views out to the Atlantic and Portimão. Designed by Sir Henry Cotton, it features the longest par 5 in Europe. The opening hole may lull you into a false sense of security but don’t be fooled; thereafter virtually every hole demands precise planning of the shots if you are to have the satisfaction of playing this great course well.
Penina Championship Course
18 holes – Par 73, length 6439m
Golf in the Algarve teed off here in 1966 with this masterpiece layout by Sir Henry Cotton. It has hosted the Portuguese Open many times, including 1998/2000. The imposing Le Meridien overlooks the course, which is built on fairly flat parkland terrain with fairways lined by countless trees and containing several tricky water hazards.
Penina Resort Course
9 holes – Par 35
This short 9 holer is laid out within the Championship fairways. The greens are relatively small and therefore demand precise tee or approach shots, but the course is nevertheless ideal for all year round holiday golf and to perfect one short game.
Contact details
From Ireland: 01 617 7967
From the UK: 0870 746 7171
From elsewhere: 00 351 282 767 546