Golf holidays in Portugal are becoming increasingly popular among golfers of all levels worldwide. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it’s no surprise that thousands of golfers flock to Portugal annually. Despite only having around 100 golf courses, the country boasts world-class facilities. Paired with stunning surroundings, delicious local cuisine, and luxurious accommodations, Portugal’s golfing destinations are sure to impress.
The Best Golf Areas and Courses in Portugal
Portugal boasts a wide range of top-tier golf courses that cater to all skill levels. Here, we’ll explore some of the best golf areas and courses in the country, each offering its unique charm and challenges.
Soltroia: Troia Golf
Situated around 45km south of Lisbon on the picturesque Troia Peninsula, Troia Golf is one of the finest courses in Portugal. Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., this challenging course offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Arrábida Mountains. The course’s strategic layout, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a must-visit for any golf enthusiast on a golfing holiday in Portugal.
Troia Golf features a par-72 championship course that stretches over 6,317 meters. The course is known for its fast greens, narrow fairways, and a variety of hazards that test golfers’ skills. Each hole offers a unique challenge, with the 3rd and the 18th holes being particularly notable. The 3rd hole is a par-4 with a breathtaking backdrop of the ocean, while the 18th is a challenging par-5 that requires precise shots to navigate the bunkers and water hazards.
Beyond the course, Troia offers excellent practice facilities, including a driving range, putting greens, and a golf academy. The clubhouse provides a comfortable place to relax after a round, with a restaurant offering delicious local food and views of the course and the surrounding landscape.
Golf Course Troia
Sesimbra: Quinta do Peru Golf & Country Club, Aroeira I and II
Sesimbra, located just 20 minutes south of Lisbon, is home to several exceptional golf courses. Quinta do Peru Golf & Country Club is known for its lush fairways and well-maintained greens, offering a perfect escape for golf lovers. The course, designed by American architect Rocky Roquemore, spans 6,640 meters and features numerous bunkers and water hazards that challenge even the most experienced golfers. The signature hole is the 8th, a par-3 with an impressive view of the Arrábida Mountains and a lake that comes into play.
Aroeira I and II, both designed by Frank Pennink, provide two contrasting golfing experiences, each set within a vast pine forest. Aroeira I, opened in 1973, is a classic par-72 course known for its challenging doglegs and water hazards. Aroeira II, opened in 2000, is slightly shorter but equally demanding, with large undulating greens and several strategically placed bunkers. These courses cater to golfers of all levels, ensuring a memorable golf holiday in Portugal.
The facilities at Quinta do Peru and Aroeira are top-notch, with driving ranges, short game areas, and professional golf instruction available. The clubhouses offer comfortable lounges, well-stocked pro shops, and restaurants serving a variety of local and international dishes.
Quinta do Peru
Algarve: Boavista Golf, Onyria Palmares, Dom Pedro, Quinta do Lago
The Algarve region is synonymous with golf holidays in Portugal, boasting some of the best courses in Europe. Boavista Golf, located in the western Algarve near Lagos, offers a challenging layout with dramatic coastal views. The course, designed by Howard Swan, features a mix of par-3, par-4, and par-5 holes that require strategic play and precise shot-making. The signature hole is the 7th, a par-4 that offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding countryside.
Onyria Palmares, near the town of Lagos, combines links and parkland styles, providing a unique golfing experience. The course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., consists of three 9-hole loops that can be played in different combinations. Each loop offers its own challenges, with the links-style holes providing incredible ocean views and the parkland holes featuring rolling fairways and tree-lined vistas. The course’s signature hole is the par-5 5th on the Lagos loop, which offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Lagos.
Dom Pedro Golf, located in Vilamoura, is home to five exceptional courses: The Old Course, Pinhal, Laguna, Millennium, and Victoria. The Old Course, designed by Frank Pennink, is one of the oldest and most prestigious courses in the Algarve. Its tree-lined fairways and undulating greens provide a stern test for golfers. The Victoria Course, designed by Arnold Palmer, is known for its challenging layout and is a regular venue for the Portugal Masters.
Quinta do Lago, with its three championship courses (North, South, and Laranjal), is a haven for golf enthusiasts. The North Course, redesigned by Beau Welling and Paul McGinley, offers a more forgiving layout, while the South Course, designed by William Mitchell, is renowned for its challenging design and views of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Laranjal, known for its orange groves and rolling terrain, provides a unique and picturesque golfing experience.
Quinta do Lago
The Algarve region is not just about golf; the area is known for its excellent dining options, with many restaurants offering fresh seafood and traditional Portuguese dishes. The region’s nightlife, beautiful beaches, and numerous outdoor activities make it a perfect destination for a golf holiday in Portugal.
Activities and Attractions Near Golf Courses
Portugal’s golf courses are often near some of the country’s most beautiful attractions and places to visit, making it easy to combine golfing with other activities.
- Near Troia Golf, explore the Troia Marina, take a dolphin-watching boat trip, or visit the Roman ruins of Troia. The marina offers great dining and relaxation, while the dolphin tours and ancient ruins add unique experiences.
- In Sesimbra, relax on stunning beaches, enjoy fresh seafood, or explore the historic Castle of Sesimbra with its panoramic views.
- The Algarve region has so much to offer, including the main town of Lagos, rugged cliffs and caves at Ponta da Piedade, and a range of water sports. Lagos’ historic centre is also worth exploring.
- Quinta do Lago is near the Ria Formosa Natural Park, perfect for birdwatching and scenic walks. The park’s trails and boardwalks provide an escape into nature and a chance to experience the beauty of the Portuguese countryside.
Check out our blog on Things To Do in Portugal for even more great ideas.
Come to Portugal on Your Next Golf Holiday!
Portugal’s golfing destinations provide a perfect blend of world-class courses, incredible weather, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re seeking a challenging game or a leisurely seaside escape, Portugal has everything to offer. Discover why golfers around the world choose Portugal for their holidays.
Ready to experience the best golf holidays in Portugal? Book your stay with Allure Villas for luxurious accommodations that cater to both relaxation and adventure. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional hospitality and ensuring your stay is unforgettable. Visit Portugal, enjoy world-class golf, and make your reservation with Allure Villas today!
