If you’re looking for the best golf breaks in Europe within a few hours of the UK, you don’t need to look much further than Portugal. Terracotta pitched roofs poke their heads out across a sea of white-washed buildings while the Atlantic Ocean shimmers its azure blues in the distance. The golf holidays in Portugal are just as impressive as the landscape, and Direct Golf Holidays are here to help you turn this faraway dream golf destination into a reality.
From the lush green courses of the Algarve to the capitals favourite hot spots in Lisbon, the golf holidays in Portugal will leave you admiring the surrounding views just as much as the courses. Our staff are experts in what it takes to make the best golf holidays, and we can’t recommend Portugal enough. The country is a safe bet for anyone who may be fairly new to golf holidays in Europe too. Recently ranking 2nd in the World Index of Moral Freedom, you can be sure to feel safe and welcome no matter which golf holiday in Portugal you look at.
If a relaxed atmosphere under a sunny blue sky sounds like something you’re after, then read on for the best golf holidays in Portugal. Handpicked by our team of knowledgeable staff at Direct Golf Holidays, we’ve searched high and low to bring you quality courses at an affordable cost. So just before you pack your bags and book your flights, let’s take a look at some of the best golf holidays in Portugal.
1. OCEANICO FALDO
Our first destination for the is a course designed by English golfing champion Nick Faldo. Situated just a 30-minute drive from Faro airport, Oceanico Faldo makes for a perfect first stop on your Portuguese tour of golfing real estate. Designed for strategic players, you can be sure to test your skills on this varied course that is set to become a new firm favourite in the Algarve region.
- ARCHITECT: Nick Faldo
- LOCATION: Amendoeira, Central Algarve
- LENGTH: 6598m
- TOTAL HOLES: 18
- PAR: 72
2. PINE CLIFFS
If you’re fairly new on your golfing journey, the course at Pine Cliffs is the perfect destination to consider whilst looking at golfing holidays in Portugal. First opened in 1990, the 9-hole layout is dramatically backdropped by the stunning coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. Umbrella pine trees dot the course breaking up the solid blue sky above. Not only do these plentiful pines produce plenty of protection, they also give you something to aim through between some of the more memorable holes. Watch out for the aptly named ‘Devil’s Parlour’ as you make your way to the end of the course.
- ARCHITECT: Martin Hawtree
- LOCATION: Albufeira
- LENGTH: 2324m
- TOTAL HOLES: 9
- PAR: 33
3. SANTO ANTONIO
Parque da Floresta is now known as Santo Antonio golf course and has recently been the beneficiary of some heavy investment. This cash injection has seen the addition of a golf academy as well as the redesign of several course holes. Santo Antonio comprises undulating land, challenging water, epic views and stunning scenery. The course itself demands some accurate shots which should keep you on your toes whilst enjoying the views; another great addition to the list of Portugal’s best golf courses.
- ARCHITECT: Pepe Gancedo
- LOCATION: Algarve (West)
- LENGTH: 5673m
- TOTAL HOLES: 18
- PAR: 71
4. VALE DE MILHO
This scaled-down version of a full-sized course is perfect for beginners and families alike. The course provides adult and junior specific course cards so you can enjoy the beauty of Vale de Milho no matter your skill level. Golf holidays in Portugal aren’t always just about golf, and with this course capable of being played in under 90 minutes, you’re left with plenty of time to soak up the sun.
- ARCHITECT: Dave Thomas
- LOCATION: Carvoeiro
- LENGTH: 926m
- TOTAL HOLES: 9
- PAR: 27
5. SAN LORENZO
In the unspoilt south-eastern corner of Quinta do Lago lies the picturesque golf course of San Lorenzo. Opened in 1988 and designed by American golf architect Joseph Lee, this beautiful 18-hole golf course in Portugal has truly stood the test of time. This award-winning course makes the most out of its location by using the undulating land to its advantage. The San Lorenzo clubhouse sits in the centre of this figure-of-eight shaped course, providing comfortable changing facilities along with a bar and restaurant for refreshments.
- ARCHITECT: Joseph Lee
- LOCATION: Almancil
- LENGTH: 6175m
- TOTAL HOLES: 18
- PAR: 72
6. MONTE REI
Arguably the finest of all golf courses in Portugal, Monte Rei eludes exclusivity and luxury from the moment you set your eyes upon the resort. The course is broken into two courses (one in the north and one in the south) and each one is of an equally high standard. The course itself is set within 1,000 acres of the finest Portuguese countryside, truly submersing you in a luxurious golfing holiday.
- ARCHITECT: Jack Nicklaus
- LOCATION: Algarve (East)
- LENGTH: 6567m
- TOTAL HOLES: 18
- PAR: 72
7. WEST CLIFFS
In the words of West Cliffs own architect, “This course is the most natural golf course site imaginable.” With views of the Atlantic Ocean from every hole, West Cliffs gives you a real sense of being at one with nature and the power of the ocean. The course has had a very low impact on the original outlay of the land, with the design only permitting slight tweaks in the existing topography. The accommodation itself is a 5-star luxury resort with cinematic views of the Atlantic coastline.
- ARCHITECT: Cynthia Dye McGarey
- LOCATION: Óbidos
- LENGTH: 6382m
- TOTAL HOLES: 18
- PAR: 72
Golf holidays in Portugal are becoming more and more popular with international players as accessibility and prices begin to look more financially favourable. Direct Golf Holidays are one of the leading golf tour operators for European golf holidays. With our key focus on professionalism and low prices, we aim to beat any other like for like package offered to our destinations. If you’re looking for a recession beating golf holiday then book online today or call us on (+34) 656 561530 and we will be happy to help.