12 of The Best Places in Portugal For a Golf Break

There are many places in the UK that can offer a terrific golf break, but when the weather takes a turn for the worst, that may not be the best option.

Thankfully, there are a selection of European countries that can offer an escape from the gloominess - and Portugal is one of them!

Portugal’s relationship with golf is long and loving, which is why we have selected 12 of the best places in Portugal for a golf break.

Monte Rei Golf Resort

Nestled away in the Eastern Algarve lies Monte Rei Golf Resort, one of the leading resorts throughout Portugal. A wide range of self-catering accommodation options are available, with each villa or suite being designed in careful fashion. The Monte Rei Golf Course is set in the foothills of the Eastern Algarve and the par-72 championship course is a challenge with water coming into play on 11 holes.

Troia Design Hotel

The Troia Design Hotel can accommodate many guests, with 61 spacious and modern rooms available and 144 apartments and residential suites. From the private balcony, guests can enjoy some spectacular views of the Arrabida mountains. There are several golf courses located closely to the hotel, with the Troia golf championship course providing a brilliant test of golf.

Palmares Golf Club

Palmares Golf Club features a wonderful course that is commonly ranked inside the Top 100 Golf Courses in Europe, typically ranking no lower than 30th. Defined as a must play, Robert Trent Jones Jr., leaned on all his experience when he created this masterpiece back in 1975. The three loops of nine can be combined to create three unique experiences; Palmares can be best described as a mixture of links and inland.

Quinta da Ria Golf Club

Set in the stunning surroundings of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, Quinta da Ria is home to a wonderful golf course that was designed by the iconic Rocky Roquemore. Throughout the round, golfers will be treated to exceptional views, with the edge of the golf course hugging the Algarve coastline tightly. The course features doglegs and difficult bunkers to negotiate.

Quinta do Vale

Quinta do Vale is a resort that is home to a Seve Ballesteros designed golf course, so you can imagine its appeal to golfers. Ballesteros evidently leant on his experience as both a player and designer for this wonderful design, with strategically placed hazards waiting to punish any mistake. What further strengthens this venue is the tremendous practice facilities that are on offer.

Amendoeira Golf Resort

Situated in the Algarve lies Amendoeira Golf Resort, which is home to two brilliant golf courses. All apartments come with modern amenities needed for your stay, and there are also villas to rent for larger parties. Golfers will either play The Faldo Course or the O’Connor Jnr. Course, both of which are a real treat. Whilst the Faldo is considered the more difficult of the two, all abilities of golfer will find a challenge at either.

West Cliffs Golf Links

West Cliffs Golf Links only opened in 2017 yet it has quickly propelled itself as a Portuguese favourite. The course is a pure links layout, boasting stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and runs alongside the silver coast. There are plenty of practice facilities to help you prepare for your round or even enjoy a practice day. The layout has been carved perfectly to create the ideal golfing challenge and this is a championship links that you will not want to miss out on.  

Evolutee Hotel at Royal Obidos Spa & Golf Resort

Although it’s not a big building, the Evolutee Hotel boasts 36 double bedrooms that come with balconies to enjoy looking at the Obidos lagoon, golf course or Atlantic Ocean. All rooms come equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV and a coffee machine. The beautiful Royal Obidos Golf Course is located on site and the challenging layout features some spectacular holes and views for everyone to enjoy.

Marriott Praia D’El Rey Golf & Beach Resort

The Marriott Praia D’El Rey Golf & Beach Resort consists of 179 premium rooms that feature unbelievable views of the golf course and ocean. There are two types of accommodation available at the resort - the hotel and self-catered apartments - which should appeal to a wide range of visitor. Two golf courses are attached to the premises, the aforementioned West Cliffs Golf Links and the Praia D’El Rey Golf & Country Club. The former is regarded as Europe’s number one new golf course, whilst the latter has always been considered as one of Europe’s best… you are truly spoiled for choice here!

Quinta do Lago South

Quinta do Lago is home to some outstanding golf courses, but the South Course offering could be the very best on the property. This prestigious layout has played host to the Portuguese Open on eight occasions and underwent renovation which was finalised in 2021. Huge improvements were made to the fairways, greens, bunkers and tees to elevate what was already a renowned golf course.

Quinta do Lago North

Whilst the South Course certainly deserves its plaudits, more than €9 million was injected into the North Course in a bid to make it the greatest of the three. The redesign took place in 2014 and executed by Beau Welling and Paul McGinley. There is no denying that accuracy will be the most useful tool around the North, as the designers placed an emphasis on controlling the golf ball as opposed to brute power.

Dom Pedro Old Course

Part of the Dom Pedro Golf Collection is the Old Course, arguably the most respected golf course in Vilamoura. This historic layout will provide a test to any golfer, regardless of ability, and the modern practice facilities complement the course’s magnitude. Routed through pine trees, beauty is the theme for a round at Dom Pedro Old Course. Although all 18 holes deserve special mention, the 8th is the signature hole and also ranked as the hardest on the course. 

We have only selected 12 of the best but there are so many first-class options when it comes to golfing in Portugal. Dom Pedro Victoria Course, Pestana Golf Resort, Pinheiros Altos Golf Club, Alamos, Benamor and Boavista golf are all brilliant alternatives. 

Our travel partners Golfbreaks have been celebrating their 25th anniversary, with the latest event being their popular Early Birdie Giveaway for 2024 bookings. This time they're offering bigger savings, better added extras, and more destinations to choose from than ever before. Plus, with the Callaway Paradym Driver or bonus Breakpoints up for grabs, you won’t be disappointed on your next golf trip!