Portugal's 14 Best Golf Courses

Portugal, especially the sunny Algarve region, is a haven for golf enthusiasts, boasting over 40 courses, including world-renowned championship venues. The Lisbon coast and Madeira Island also offer prestigious courses set against stunning backdrops.

Golfers of all levels can find a course in Portugal to suit their skills, with the potential to improve their game and lower their handicap. Here's a condensed guide to some of Portugal's top golf courses.

1. San Lorenzo Golf Course

San Lorenzo Golf Course, designed by Joseph Lee, is a top European course located in the Algarve's Quinta do Lago. This 18-hole par 72 course features Bermuda grass fairways and challenging holes that test strength and accuracy. The 6th hole is particularly demanding, and the 18th is famous for its proximity to water. Access is exclusive to members and guests of the Dona Filipa Hotel.

2. Penha Longa Atlantic South

Penha Longa Atlantic South, set within a natural reserve near Sintra, is a dramatic 18-hole par 72 course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. The course's elevation changes and fast greens require bold play. The par-five 6th is a signature hole, and the 15th and 16th are memorable for their challenges.

3. Monte Rei Golf Club

Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Monte Rei Golf Club is a secluded 18-hole par-72 course in the eastern Algarve. It features water hazards, deep bunkers, and a challenging layout. The 13th and 14th holes are particularly picturesque, and the course is known for its five-star clubhouse and gourmet restaurant.

4. Victoria

Victoria, an Arnold Palmer-designed course in Vilamoura, has hosted the Portugal Masters and the PGA World Cup. This 18-hole par-72 course features natural water hazards and undulating fairways. The course is known for its beautiful setting and challenging layout.

5. Vale do Lobo Royal

Vale do Lobo Royal is known for its signature 16th hole, a cliff-top carryover. Designed by Rocky Roquemore, this 18-hole par-72 course requires accuracy and strategic club selection. The 9th hole is a scenic par 3 surrounded by water.

6. Old Course

The Old Course in Vilamoura is a par 73 layout designed by Frank Pennick. Known for its narrow fairways lined with umbrella pines, the course requires straight driving and careful shot selection. The 4th and 13th holes are particularly challenging.

7. Oitavos Dunes

Oitavos Dunes, designed by Arthur Hills near the Sintra Mountains, is an 18-hole par-71 links course. The layout features sand dunes, umbrella pines, and fast-paced greens. The 14th hole is considered one of the best par 3s in the world.

8. Quinta do Lago South

Quinta do Lago South, designed by William Mitchell, has hosted the Portuguese Open eight times. This 18-hole 72-par course is set in the Ria Formosa Natural Park and is suitable for all skill levels, with the 8th, 15th, and 18th holes being particularly testing.

9. Vale do Lobo Ocean

Vale do Lobo Ocean, designed by Rocky Roquemore, is an 18-hole par-72 course with sea views. The front nine feature umbrella pines and water hazards, while the back nine bring players closer to the sea, especially at the 15th hole.

Location: Vale do Lobo, Algarve

10. Quinta do Lago North

Quinta do Lago North, redesigned by Beau Welling and Paul McGinley, is an 18-hole par-72 course emphasizing precision and strategy. The layout features undulating greens, bunkers, and a lake, with the 12th hole being a highlight.

11. Palheiro Golf

Palheiro Golf on Madeira Island offers sea and mountain views. Designed by Cabell B. Robinson, this 18-hole par-72 course features undulating fairways and strategic bunkers. The 11th hole provides views of the Desertas Islands.

12. Praia D'El Rey

Praia D'El Rey Golf and Beach Resort near Óbidos features a links course designed by Cabell B. Robinson. The course has pine forests, dunes, and coastal views, with the back nine running along the ocean.

13. Quinta da Marinha

Quinta da Marinha Golf Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, is an 18-hole par-71 course near Cascais. The course features umbrella pines, bunkers, and water hazards, with scenic views of the ocean and Sintra Mountains.

14. Penina

Penina is home to three golf courses, including the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course, the first 18-hole course in the Algarve. The course, located at Penina Hotel & Golf Resort, is known for its flat terrain, streams, ditches, and water hazards.