A Guide to Golf on the Algarve

Golfers who like to enjoy their sport as part of their holiday tend to be driven most by the range of courses on offer in a particular destination but having a favourable year-round climate is another major factor.  The "wow factor" of a golf course will ensure that memories of specific holes and views remain for years to come.  The perfect climate and location for year-round golf is bright, sunny and mild weather throughout the year with a pleasant sea breeze to cool down the hotter summer days.  Regions which get more than their fair share of sunny days, compared with rain-drenched ones, are clearly preferable.

Portugal's Algarve region, just two to three hours from London, is fast becoming a top destination for golf holidays because of its warm climate and spectacular scenery along a fabulous coastline.  Golfing here is most popular from late autumn to late spring due to the mild winters.

The San Lorenzo course at Quinta do Lago is rated Number 2 in Europe by Golf World.  Its Par 72, 18-hole course surrounded by pine-woods, lakes and lots of wildlife affords stunning views of the Ria Formosa nature reserve. 

Le Méridien Penina is the top resort course, laid over a former rice field, and provides a complete golfing getaway in one location with three golf courses within its 360 acres, an 18-hole Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course and two 9 hole couses. 

The Benamor golf course epitomises the Algarve with Atlantic views to the south and rolling hills and valleys in the north; a quaint church meets you at the last hole. 

Rated in the Top 10 Portuguese courses, the magnificent 18-hole, Par 72 Quinta da Ria golf course, set within the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, overlooks the mountains and the sea. 

Vale do Lobo is amongst the very best of Algarve golf courses, offering mountain scenery and ocean views.  The 16th hole on its Royal Course is said to be the most photographed hole in Europe since two ravines need to be cleared to reach the green. 

For some of the finest golf in the Algarve look no further than Vilamoura, a coastal town boasting 5 courses including the Old Course, which opened in 1969 and is one of the area's finest. 

For the perfect golf holiday in the Algarve, consider staying at the popular golfing hotel of Dom Pedro.