Hi all

I know there are a lot of topics on golf in Portugal on these forums but I'm looking to get as much info about golf and hotel accomodation over there pretty quickly, as I'd like to get a trip booked a.s.a.p 

Myself and the missus have got the chance to pop out to Portugal in early October for 3-4 days down in the Vilamoura area.

Has anyone stayed in a nice hotel down in that area before that they could recommend?.  We'd quite like to be close to the Oceanico Pinhal course as that's where my girlfriend brother is staying in an apartment.  The accomodation at the golf courses is a tad expensive though! so a hotel in the surrounding area would be better.

In early October, would a single player be able to go out on some of the courses like Pinhal, Vila Sol etc. Or would I get paired up with others?

Are handicap certificates needed?- I've got my Golfshake one, but nothing from my club.

Any tips on playing out there or where to get the best deals, I guess its best to book the golf in advance right?

Cheers fellas

Matt

Hi Matt,

I recently got back from a trip to vilamoura where we played Pinhal, Millenium and Quinta do lago south. We stayed in a nice apart/hotel called hotel vilamoura golf http://www.hotelvilamouragolf.com/

It wasn't close to the marina, wasn't at all flashy, but good value and clean. They have a complimentary mini bus where they take you to and from all the local courses, just ask at reception the day before you play - great service!

we were never asked for handicap certificates and we had two 28 (at least) handicap players in our four. - if you play after 1pm buggies at the oceanico courses are complimentary too. Pinhal was quiet when we played it and there were a few singles out and about.

HTH

Phone Vicki at Golf Amigos 0141 644 0999

They will be able to give you loads of advice and costings

As to playing on your own, I very much doubt it.

I've never been asked to produce a handicap certificate

Hi Matt,

I've started playing this year and the courses in Portugal are the reason I started. My in laws live there and I started playing regularly with my father in law on visits. I've never once been asked for a handicap certificate and have played on Vila Sol (my favorite - especially the 6th), Victoria, Pinheiros Altos, Millenium and San Lorenzo.

 I know that Vila Sol were doing some good deals, and I have a contact out there who arranges lots of visits for people from England and Ireland, and he gets some very good deals on the courses. Let me know if you're interested and I'll send over his contact details.

 Have a great time!!

Matt

Thanks everyone, I need to do some more research.  I have a feeling my girlfriend will book the accomodation.  David, can GolfAmigos just book green fees, or do they like to book everything for you, ie the hotels as well?

They sort everything for you, including car hire if you want it. You would just need to book your flight