Updated: June 26, 2024

 

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For keen golfers, Portugal is nothing short of a dream. With internationally acclaimed golf courses, world-class facilities, and an incredible climate, you’ll be able to test your skills across the country.

There are a total of 90 golf courses in Portugal so whatever your location, you should be able to find an excellent course close at hand. Alongside this, you’ll find courses for whichever level, whether you are honing your craft or just starting out.

In this article on golfing in Portugal, we’ll delve into Portugal’s reputation as a top golfing destination, outline the top golf courses in the country, and share some tips on how you can plan the perfect golf outing.

An Introduction to Golfing in Portugal

The Best Luxury Golf Villas in PortugalIn the most recent World Golf Awards, Portugal not only took the title of Europe’s Best Golf Destination but also came out on top as the World’s Best Golf Destination. The. country’s reputation stems from a combination of immaculate courses, top golf facilities, favorable weather conditions, and stunning landscapes.

The Algarve region, in particular, stands out as a golfer’s paradise. It boasts a plethora of top-tier courses – 32 in total – designed by some of the sport’s most famous architects. The mild climate ensures year-round playability, making it a perfect getaway for golf enthusiasts.

Key attractions for golfers include the award-winning Monte Rei Golf Club, known for its perfect greens and exceptional service, and Oitavos Dunes in Cascais, considered to be the best golf course in Portugal that offers a challenging yet enjoyable round. Beyond the greens, golfers can indulge in Portugal’s rich culture, exquisite cuisine, luxury lifestyle, and vibrant nightlife, making it an all-encompassing destination for both leisure and sport.

Should you be looking for properties close to some of the very best golf courses in Portugal, this article has you covered: Where to Find Properties Near Golf Resorts in Portugal?

Top Golf Courses in Portugal

Wherever you may be in Portugal, you likely will not be too far away from a golf course. Golf has become a cornerstone of tourism in Portugal, with expats from across the world seeking out this gem on the Iberian Peninsula to perfect their craft.

Here, we delve into some of the top choices for golfing in Portugal in key regions of the country. Note that this list is not exhaustive, and you will find exceptional golf courses elsewhere in Portugal, such as on the Silver Coast and in the southwest of the country.

Algarve Region

algarve portugal land for saleQuinta do Lago N&S Golf Course, located in the prestigious Golden Triangle of the Algarve, stands out as a leading destination for golf enthusiasts. This exclusive area, between Vilamoura, Almancil, Quinta do Lago, and Vale do Lobo, is known for its luxury clubs and villas. Nearby, the Vilamoura Victoria Golf Course, designed by Arnold Palmer for tournament play, offers another exceptional golfing experience. San Lourenzo, a par 72 course in Quinta do Lago, is also acclaimed as one of Europe’s finest and most beautiful courses.

In the Eastern Algarve, Monte Rei Country Club boasts a championship course designed by Jack Nicklaus. The area features winding roads and properties, including Algarvian-style villas and custom-built plots. The central building hosts Vistas restaurant, the first Michelin-starred eatery in the region since 2019 under chef Rui Silvestre. Moving over to the Western Algarve, you will also find notable golf courses, such as the elegant Onyria Palmares Beach & Golf Resort, located close to Lagos.

Lisbon and Surrounding Areas

Lisbon tourist attractionsWhile Lisbon doesn’t boast as many golf courses as the Algarve, nearby Cascais and Estoril offer incredible options, such as Otiavos Dunes and the Quinta da Marinha Resort. These areas feature modern, state-of-the-art facilities and beautiful golf resorts.

Popular with tourists and expats, these locations provide a perfect escape from the city for you to refine your golf skills or, if you are new to the table, to kick off your golfing journey in style. Should you be looking south of Portugal, Troia Golf is also regarded as one of the finest courses and luxury retreats in Europe.

You can check out our article, Lisbon and the Lisbon Coast’s Great Golf Courses, to find out more about golfing close to the Portuguese capital.

Northern Portugal

Northern Portugal may not be as renowned for its golf courses as the Algarve, but it boasts some true hidden gems. The Vidago Palace Golf Course, situated in a luxurious resort in the east, offers a lavish experience. To the north of Porto, the Estela Golf Club captivates with its breathtaking seaside views, while another standout is the Ponte de Lima Golf Course, located in a charming valley north of Braga.

What are the best golf courses in Portugal?

portugal golf propertyThere are incredible courses in Portugal, and each golfer will have their favorite. Below, we provide you with some of our favorite golf courses in the country.

  • West Cliffs Golf Course: The West Cliffs Golf Course is located on the Silver Coast, just north of Peniche. This is a true modern gem with a contemporary design and a classic links feel, featuring natural, undulating terrain and expansive bunkers. The sea breeze adds a layer of challenge on windy days.
  • San Lorenzo Golf Course: For loves of the classic course, the San Lorenzo Golf Course is a must-visit. Known for its perfect Bermuda grass fairways and undulating woodland topography, this favorite in Faro requires high concentration over its 18 holes.
  • Oitavos Dunes: A mix of links and woodland holes with stunning Atlantic Ocean views, hosting events like the European Tour’s Portuguese Open and GolfSixes. If you are a keen golfer and you happen to be close to Cascais, then this should be on your itinerary.
  • Praia D’El Rey Golf Course: Located on the Silver Coast, this course combines Portuguese cork pine-lined fairways with a beach-links style back-nine, challenging golfers with its varied terrain.
  • Tróia Golf: A true links course winding through sand dunes, featuring the renowned 3rd hole, a masterpiece by Robert Trent Jones Senior. Located on the Tróia Peninsula, about an hour and a half’s drive from Lisbon.
  • Quinta do Lago Golf: The South Course offers artistic holes with views of incredible natural beauty at the Ria Formosa Natural Park, while the North Course is one of the most sought-after courses in the Algarve.
  • Vale do Lobo Golf Resort: A popular Central Algarve destination with luxurious facilities, catering to 553 golfers for an ideal golfing holiday.
  • Palmares Golf Club: Overlooking the Bay of Lagos, this 27-hole course offers a perfect blend of playability, challenge, and excellent conditioning.

Golf Resorts and Luxury accommodations

Should you have your eye set on Portugal, you’ll find that many golf courses offer golf packages, where you will be able to stay at high-end resorts and be able to use a range of modern amenities, such as a private swimming pool and gym. Many also have top restaurants with fine dining experiences.

Planning Your Golf Trip to Portugal

Below, we share some tips to make your next golf trip just as enjoyable as possible.

GC-ICON-04Best times to visit

The ideal times to visit Portugal for golfing are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasantly warm and the courses are less crowded. Summers can be hot, especially in the south, while winters are mild but wetter. You should find that you can enjoy golf in Portugal throughout the year, however, given the excellent climate.

Travel tips

Book your tee times well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection, and a rain jacket for unexpected showers. Renting a car is recommended for exploring various courses and nearby attractions, although many golf resorts will offer airport transport.

Combining golf with other activities

Portugal offers rich cultural experiences, from exploring Lisbon’s historic sites to enjoying the vey best Port wine in one of the port wine houses in Vila Nova de Gaia, close to Porto.  Should you be testing your golf skills close to the coast, then why not also make the most of Portugal’s coastline by enjoying water sports? From surfing to paddleboarding, from sailing to kitesurfing, there is a vast array of options open to you.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Golfing in Portugal

Beginners can enjoy golf at Quinta do Lago’s Laranjal Course or Belas Clube de Campo in Portugal. There are also many courses in Cascais that are fit for beginners.

Golfing costs in Portugal vary, with average green fees ranging from €50 to €150 per round, depending on the course and season.

Spring and autumn offer ideal weather conditions for golfing in Portugal, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds on golf holidays.

Yes, Penina Hotel & Golf Resort and Dom Pedro Vilamoura Resort offer all-inclusive golf packages in Portugal, alongside many others.

The Algarve boasts top-rated championship courses, like Monte Rei Golf & Country Club and Vale do Lobo’s Royal Course.

Booking a golf holiday in Portugal is easy through online platforms or contacting golf tour operators specialized in Portugal trips. Consider your budget, desired location, and level of difficulty before choosing where you plan on going.

Enjoy luxury golf experiences at resorts like Pine Cliffs Resort and Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort.

Many courses, including Pestana Golf Resort and Vilamoura Golf Academy, offer golf lessons in Portugal.

Experience breathtaking views at Oitavos Dunes in Cascais or Tróia Golf, close to Troia, two of Portugal’s most scenic courses. The golf courses in the Algarve are also spectacular.

Yes, golf clubs and equipment are readily available for rent at most golf courses and resorts in Portugal.

Portugal’s golfing portfolio hosts prestigious tournaments like the Portugal Masters, attracting top golfers worldwide.

Family-friendly golf resorts in Portugal include Amendoeira Golf Resort and Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa.

Portugal’s climate favors golf year-round, with mild winters and warm summers, perfect for golfing.

Yes, check out historic courses like Estoril Golf or Penha Longa Resort, blending tradition with modern amenities in Portugal.

Lisbon’s vicinity offers excellent golfing options, such as Belas Clube de Campo and Oeiras Golf & Residence. You will also find an array of top golf courses close to Cascais, such as Oitavos Dunes

Portugal’s best golf destinations and resorts typically offer amenities like spas, restaurants, pools, and shuttle services for a complete experience.

Plan your golfing trip to Portugal by selecting courses, booking accommodations, and arranging transportation in advance.

You’ll find fantastic golf courses with incredible views across Portugal. Enjoy stunning coastal views while playing at courses like Praia D’El Rey or Palmares Golf & Beach Resort in Portugal. There are countless golf courses in the Algarve and in Cascais that offer outrageous ocean views.

Two of the most challenging courses include Troia Golf and West Cliffs, known for their demanding layouts and strategic design.

Golf courses in Portugal often cater to senior golfers with facilities like buggies, shorter course options, and senior discounts.