The Algarve is Europes foremost winter golfing destination.  At the last count there were 22 golf complexes, 32 separate courses and over 549 widely differing holes to play along the southern coast of the Algarve.  There are another two complexes and 45 holes within easy driving distance just over the Spanish border.

Golf is an all-year-round sport but the main season is from October to May. Look out for special deals posted on this site.  Many of the courses offer multiple green fees at discount prices for limited periods.  The promotional organisation Algarve Golfe sells a 'passport', which gives a special deal on five rounds of 18 hole play. Lessons are available from professionals on all courses, and all courses are open to visitors.  Most of them require a handicap certificate; all insist on a dress code and proper course etiquette.

Algarve Golf Academy

Three minutes walk from the apartment is fantastic Algarve Golf Academy.   the Academy includes; a driving range, putting green and areas to practice your short game, in all its aspects.  The inhouse equipment includes computerized equipment for analysis of swing and analysis of putt. The club pro is Daniel Silva, Portugal's highest ranking player for a record number of years.

(Algarve Golf Academy - You can see apartments in top right of photo)

The Club House includes a restaurant, bar, terrace, a golf shop and locker rooms.

(Algarve Golf Academy Club House)

Other Local Courses

The nearest 18 hole courses include Salgados, west of Albufeira.  The 18 holes there have been likened to Florida as they narrowly meander through many small lakes.  Accuracy is paramount!

Pick-ups can be arranged to all the course in and aroung the Algarve.

Balaia is on the Olhos d' Agua Road.  Part of a large estate, it is a nine-hole executive course, ideal for sharpening up your short game.  Visitors are welcome to play and join in the many social events.  Further west is the picturesque Pine Cliffs course.  It is a nine-hole layout, used by many visiting pros.

San Lourenzo        

18 holes Par 72 - Lenght 6,238m

A beautiful course adjoining the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, this course has the reputation of being 'simply the best', and recent was listed as the second best course in Europe.  A strick dress code is in place.  Starting times- bookable maximum 24 hours in advance.    

Pinheiros Altos

18 Holes - Par 72 - Length 6,186m

Pinheiros Altos also benefits from the adjoining Ria Formosa Nature Reserve where bird life and exotic plants abound.  The first nine holes are in an undulating, pine covered landscape with the back nine in a contrasting lakeside setting. Early bookings are recommended. 

Quinta do Lago

36 holes - Par 72 - Length 6,488m

This world class championship course has hosted the Portuguese Open on several occasions.  The holes meander through the spectacular pine forest, in one of the last unspoilt coastal zones in Europe.

Vale do Lobo Ocean

Orginally designed by the last Sir Henry Connon which have now been combined into the Ocean Course.  Formerly the orange and green nine hole course.  Several of the old orange holes run along the beautiful white sandy beach and Atlantic Ocean.