Choosing The Best Luxury Algarve Holidays For Golfers

The Algarve — Europe’s golfing paradise. Why? Well, with its year-round mild climate, incredible coastline and world-class infrastructure, it’s all you could ask for if you love playing golf. You might be wondering  — just how many golf courses are there in the Algarve? The answer might surprise you! 

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you’ll need to know about Algarve golf holidays, including the best areas to go, standout courses, luxury resorts, and of course, what to consider when you are planning an exceptional golf break in the region.

 

Why golfers love the Algarve

Okay, we won’t keep you waiting. The Algarve has over 30 golf courses within its 4,997 km2 (1,929 sq mi) of land — that’s one course for every 64 square miles! So, there’s no wonder Algarve golf courses are amongst some of the most popular in the world. 

From dramatic cliff-top fairways to lush parkland layouts and scenic coastal stretches, the variety of Algarve golf courses is simply unrivalled. Add in more than 300 days of sunshine each year, easy flight access, gourmet cuisine and luxury resorts that cater to your every need, it’s easy to see why so many people keep coming back.

Whether you’re chasing competitive championship layouts or relaxed social rounds, this region combines technical challenge, stunning backdrops, and top-notch hospitality. And with golf resorts in the Algarve that feel more like private enclaves than simple hotels, you’ll find everything you need for the perfect golfing holiday.

 

Key golfing regions in the Algarve

When you’re choosing where to stay, there are three main luxury golf hubs to consider: Quinta do Lago, Vilamoura, and Vale do Lobo. Each one offers a slightly different experience but shares the same commitment to first-class courses and five-star accommodation. Beyond these, you’ll also find hidden gems dotted further east, like the renowned Monte Rei.

 

Spotlight: Quinta do Lago

Quinta do Lago is the crown jewel of Algarve golf. This upscale region is tucked alongside the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park and offers some of the finest golfing facilities in Europe. Here are three standout courses you shouldn’t miss:

South Course

There’s not much better than this course. The South Course is the winner of Europe and Portugal’s Best Golf Course 2022, a player’s favourite on the European Tour, and has a stellar reputation among golfers worldwide. The fairways wind through pine trees, past shimmering lakes, and open out onto panoramic views over the protected Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Challenging even for experienced players, its championship pedigree might look intimidating, but it’s surprisingly welcoming for amateurs, too. If you want the quintessential Quinta do Lago experience, this is the one.

Opening times: 7:00 to 20:30

Par: 72

Pricing: From €81 (9 holes) / €166 (18 holes)

Architect: W. Mitchell & R. Roquemore (1974)

 

Laranjal Course

East of the resort in the peaceful Ludo Valley, you’ll find the award-winning Laranjal Course. Once an orange grove, this par-72 delight still features the region’s iconic orange trees dotted among five picturesque lakes. Immaculate Bermuda grass fairways and pristine greens create a rewarding round for all skill levels. It’s no wonder it was named Best Golf Course at the Portuguese Travel Awards.

Opening times: 7:00 to 20:30

Par: 72

Pricing: From €75 (9 holes) / €151 (18 holes)

Architect: Jorge Santana da Silva (2009)

 

San Lorenzo Golf Course

Opened in 1988, the San Lorenzo Golf Course is regularly ranked among the world’s best. Set alongside the Ria Formosa bird sanctuary, which has over 70 species of birds, it treats golfers to a tranquil yet visually stunning game. Smooth, forgiving terrain makes it ideal for leisurely rounds while taking in the natural beauty all around. 

This Par-4 hole is a real challenge, and many say it’s one of the hardest holes they’ve played, largely due to the second shot over the lake and onto the green, which leaves little to no room for error!

Opening times: 09:00 to 18:00

Par: 72

Pricing: From €125 (18 holes)

Architect: Joseph Lee (1988)

 

North Course

Another gem in Quinta do Lago’s crown, the North Course is one of the most scenic in the region. Redesigned by architect Beau Welling with input from Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley, it’s now a modern masterpiece. Expect well-placed bunkers, strategic water hazards and four sets of tees on each hole, so you can test yourself as much (or as little) as you like.

The course features four par-5 holes with incredible views! All of the courses’ par-4s are doglegs with the exception of holes 10 & 13. Be wary of hole 12 as you’ll need to avoid the lake on the left-hand side straight off the drive.

Opening times: 7:00 to 20:30

Par: 72

Pricing: From €75 (9 holes) / €151 (18 holes)

Architect: W. Mitchell & R. Roquemore (1974)

 

Spotlight: Vilamoura

Vilamoura is often called the Algarve’s golf capital, and for good reason. This lively resort town has an impressive cluster of championship courses, a glamorous marina, vibrant nightlife, and luxury villas. If you’re searching for golf resorts in the Algarve, Vilamoura has an option for every taste.

The Old Course Golf Club

Situated in the heart of Vilamoura, The Old Course Golf Club is one of the region’s pioneers — and remains a firm favourite today. Revered for its classic layout designed by Frank Pennink in 1969, with many straight and reachable par-4s, and an elegant clubhouse featuring a British-inspired gastropub and a Pro Shop, it’s managed with a strong focus on sustainability to protect its mature pine-lined fairways for future generations. Widely respected in the golfing community, it’s a must-play for anyone exploring Vilamoura’s legendary greens.

Opening times: 07:00 to 20:00

Par: 73

Pricing: From €122 (9 holes) / €204 (18 holes)

Architect: Frank Pennink (1969)

 

Pinhal Course

Vilamoura’s second-oldest course, Pinhal, opened in 1976 and offers a classic parkland feel. Its name, which translates to ‘pine forest,’ refers to how the course is set through a pine tree forest, providing an extra few obstacles along the way. Hole 4 is one to highlight, where water comes into play. Hit your tee-shot perfectly and you’ll be on to a winner, playing over the edge of a lake. But if you make an error, you could end up in the water.

One highlight is the clubhouse’s panoramic view across the driving range — perfect for unwinding after your round. The sunny veranda is an ideal spot to raise a glass and swap stories from the day.

Opening times: 07:00 to 20:00

Par: 72

Pricing: From €71 (9 holes) / €118 (18 holes)

Architect: R. Trent Jones Jr. (1976)

 

Laguna Course

Sitting prettily along Vilamoura’s coastal strip, Laguna Golf Course is a visual treat, and not just for the golf. Its unique design features numerous water hazards (especially on holes 5, 7, 12 and 14 where you’re required to play over the water) and minimal trees, making every hole feel open and inviting, yet still testing your accuracy and nerve. But don’t be fooled by the limited trees, because its strategically placed bunkers can cause problems, especially when the wind is involved. 

Laguna and the Millennium Course both share a clubhouse, where you’ll find a restaurant and a couple of Pro Shops stocking all the golf essentials you’ll need.

Opening times: 07:00 to 20:00

Par: 72

Pricing: From €71 (9 holes) / €118 (18 holes)

Architect: Joseph Lee (1990)

 

Millennium Course

Opened in 2000, the Millennium Golf Course played a big role in cementing Vilamoura’s reputation as a must-visit destination for European golf. A mix of wooded, narrow fairways and open stretches dotted with lakes makes it a balanced course that tests both strategy and shot-making skills. Let’s look at hole 18, for example. With a lake located along the left-hand side of the hole, there’s not much room for error, as if you hit too far left, your shot could finish in the water hazard.

As we have already mentioned, the Millennium Course shares a Clubhouse with Laguna and features a restaurant and two Pro Shops.

Opening times: 07:00 to 20:00

Par: 72

Pricing: From €71 (9 holes) / €118 (18 holes)

Architect: Michael Hawtree (2000)

 

Spotlight: Vale do Lobo

Where luxury beachfront living meets world-class golf, that’s Vale do Lobo. Its neighbours are Quinta do Lago, but it still has its own personality: a little more laid-back, effortlessly chic, and brimming with ocean views. Let’s take a look at two of the main Algarve golf courses that you’ll find here:

The Royal Golf Course

Expect breathtaking sights and exhilarating golf at Vale do Lobo’s Royal Golf Course. The famous 16th hole is something to behold. Perched on a cliff-top overlooking the beach, you’ll struggle to find a hole on another golf course as spectacular as this. It’s one of the most photographed golf holes in Europe! With its perfectly kept greens, luxurious vibe, and unforgettable sunset views, this course lives up to its regal name.

Opening times: 07:00 to 18:00

Par: 72

Pricing: From €73 (18 holes)

Architect: Sir Henry Cotton and Rocky Roquemore (1997)

 

The Ocean Golf Course

Designed by Sir Henry Cotton, the Ocean Golf Course weaves through nature reserves and spills out towards the Atlantic, offering some of the best golf vistas in the Algarve. Its fairways run right down to the sea, and the combination of rolling terrain and fresh ocean air makes for a memorable round. 

Afterwards, the clubhouse welcomes you with a lovely bar and restaurant, Spikes, serving lunch dishes such as Salsicha Assada (Grilled Portuguese Sausage), Thai Salads and Tagliatelle e Camarão (Tagliatelle and Prawns). It’s the perfect place to toast the day’s best shots.

Opening times: 07:00 to 18:00

Par: 73

Pricing: From €73 (18 holes)

Architect: Sir Henry Cotton (1968)

 

Other notable Algarve golf courses

Beyond the big-name hubs of Quinta do Lago, Vilamoura, and Vale do Lobo, the Algarve has plenty of standout courses that add extra sparkle to this world-class golf destination. If you’re planning a longer golf trip or want to discover hidden gems, these courses are well worth adding to your itinerary.

From championship-level designs by golfing legends like Jack Nicklaus and Sir Nick Faldo to dramatic cliff-top layouts and peaceful inland escapes, these courses bring variety, challenge, and breathtaking scenery.

Whether you’re ticking off your bucket list or simply want to experience the Algarve’s full golfing diversity, these remarkable courses promise memorable rounds, excellent facilities and warm Portuguese hospitality every step of the way.

 

Monte Rei (North Course)

Tucked into the scenic Serra do Caldeirão hills, Monte Rei North is an exceptional Jack Nicklaus Signature course, which is one of only a handful in Europe. The peaceful, unspoilt surroundings and immaculate layout create a secluded, bucket-list golfing experience. Expect lush fairways, clever bunkering and water features that make every hole an adventure.

The uphill 16th at Monte Rei challenges golfers with bunkers lining the left side and a stream cutting across the fairway. A well-placed tee shot over the right fairway bunker sets up the best angle in. Large bunkers protect the green, but a safe play short and right leaves an easy uphill wedge to the spacious putting surface.

You’ll experience an authentic luxury experience at Monte Rei, where a member of the team will valet park your car and take your clubs to the staging area while they show you around the facilities and you get ready to play. You’ll then be taken to your buggy and escorted to the driving range, where you can make the most of the practice facilities before you begin.

Opening times: 08:00 to 21:00

Par: 72

Pricing: From €170 (18 holes)

Architect: Jack Nicklaus (2007)

 

Faldo Course

Part of the Amendoeira Golf Resort, the Faldo Course is a Sir Nick Faldo design that tests your strategic skills with desert-style bunkers, water hazards and plenty of elevation changes. It’s challenging but rewarding — exactly what a championship course should be.

The Faldo Course opens with a testing uphill par 4 offering plenty of risk and reward. Hole 4, a downhill par 5, features a winding watercourse that comes into play on five holes overall. The back nine has plenty of memorable challenges, especially the huge par-5 13th with its downhill fairway, which is tricky when the winds are behind you. Holes 14 and 15 keep the pressure on with rocky outcrops in play. After leaving the higher ground, the course finishes in style with a stunning par-5 18th.

Faldo has great facilities for food and drink, with the Garden Deck at the Clubhouse providing snacks throughout the day, the Clubhouse Restaurant delivering a range of dishes created by Chef Ricardo Pereira, the Clubhouse Bar, and the Sports Centre Bar.

Opening times: 07:30 to 16:00

Par: 72

Pricing: From €87 (9 holes)

Architect: Nick Faldo (2008)

 

O’Connor Jnr. Golf Course

Also at Amendoeira, the O’Connor Jnr. Course contrasts beautifully with its sister layout. Designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr., this course makes the most of the surrounding wetlands, with large lakes and streams that come into play on most holes throughout the course. It’s a gentle but engaging test for golfers of all abilities.

The O’Connor Course demands accuracy from start to finish. Several lakes shape the front nine, including the 3rd hole, marked by a Moorish relic on an island. Holes 7, 8, and 9 raise the stakes with tricky water hazards that punish any lapse in focus. Hole 10 turns players toward the back nine, where large lakes and winding streams test every shot. The closing hole climbs the hillside in front of the clubhouse, calling for a precise drive and a pinpoint approach to a two-tier green cut into the slope.

The O’Connor Course shares the same facilities as the Faldo Course, as they are both on the Amendoeira Golf Resort.

Opening times: 07:30 to 16:00

Par: 72

Pricing: From €87 (9 holes)

Architect: Christy O’Connor (2008)

 

Pine Cliffs Course

Perched dramatically on the red sandstone cliffs above Praia da Falésia and set amongst the pine trees, Pine Cliffs is one of the Algarve’s most picturesque golf courses. The highlight is the signature 6th hole — the “Devil’s Parlour” — where you tee off across a spectacular ravine with the ocean crashing below. It’s a short course, but the views and atmosphere make it unforgettable.

After your round of golf, you can always relax at the clubhouse and have something to eat, with the menu featuring Club sandwiches, Chicken Piccata, create-your-own omelettes, and lots more. 

Opening times: 07:30 to 19:30

Par: 33 (9 holes)

Pricing: From €39 (9 holes)

Architect: Martin Hawtree (1991)

 

Luxury golf resorts in the Algarve

One of the Algarve’s best assets is its incredible choice of golf resorts, all offering the convenience of doorstep fairways and five-star amenities. Many resorts are set within private estates or scenic natural parks, giving you stunning views as you play. Plus, you’ll find luxury spas, gourmet dining and attentive service, making it easy to relax after a rewarding day on the course.

• Quinta do Lago resort: This exclusive community is made for golfers who expect the best. You’ll find private villas, gourmet restaurants such as Umami and Bovino, a modern sports hub, and spa facilities that take relaxation seriously. 

 

Location: Quinta do Lago Rotunda 1, 8135-024 Almancil, Portugal

• Vale do Lobo resort: Vale do Lobo is home to elegant accommodation options, fine dining, a rejuvenating spa, and family-friendly activities like Tennis, Padel and Water Skiing that make it perfect for golfers, and non-golfers too.

 

Location: Vale do Lobo, Resort Turístico de Luxo, S.A, 8135-864 Faro, Portugal

• Four Seasons Vilamoura: A favourite in Vilamoura, the Four Seasons Vilamoura offers direct access to the region’s famous courses, such as the Pinhal Course, a spa and great dining options. It’s a great base for playing the Dom Pedro collections and enjoying the marina in the evenings.

 

Location: R. da Holanda, Vilamoura, 8125-907 Quarteira, Portugal

 

How to choose the right golf holiday

With so many Algarve golf courses to pick from, it pays to plan ahead. The region has something for everyone. To make sure you have the most enjoyable golfing experience, there are a few things worth considering. 

For example, how experienced is your group? Do you want a challenge, or do you want more leisurely rounds? Either way, here’s how to choose the perfect golf break for you:

Consider your playing style

Are you a confident golfer looking for a test? If so, look for courses that host European Tour events or have tougher layouts, like Quinta do Lago’s South Course, or Monte Rei’s North Course. These will challenge your strategy and shot-making skills, so they’re ideal if you’re chasing that competitive thrill.

Prefer a more forgiving round? Opt for scenic layouts with wider fairways and fewer hazards, such as Pinhal, San Lorenzo or the Ocean Golf Course at Vale do Lobo. These are perfect for a relaxed game while soaking up the stunning coastal scenery.

 

Pick the right region

Each of the Algarve’s golfing hubs has a distinct vibe, but which one is for you and your group? Are you wanting somewhere that you can experience a lively evening out after a day of golf, or somewhere you can relax with easy access to bars and restaurants?

• Vilamoura: Best for golfers who want multiple courses close together, a lively marina for nights out, and easy access to bars, restaurants and entertainment.

 

• Quinta do Lago: Perfect if you’re looking for exclusivity, five-star resorts, and championship courses set against natural parkland.

 

• Vale do Lobo: Ideal if you want spectacular cliff-top holes, beachfront luxury and a slightly quieter, family-friendly atmosphere.

 

• Eastern Algarve: For golfers craving seclusion, top-end service and picturesque landscapes. Monte Rei is the stand-out here.

 

Think beyond the fairways

What else do you want to get from your Algarve golf holiday? If this trip goes beyond only the tee times, or you’re travelling with non-golfers, then it’s important that you make sure you choose a resort/area that has everything you’ll want off the course too!

• Luxury spas: Many resorts, like those at Quinta do Lago or Vale do Lobo, have wellness centres where you can unwind after a day on the fairways.

 

• Fine dining: Look for resorts with renowned restaurants, or nearby towns with a lively food scene. There are also plenty of Michelin star restaurants in the Algarve too.

 

• Beaches and activities: If you’d like to split your time between golf and the coast, stay near resorts with private beach access or easy day trips.

 

• Nightlife and culture: Vilamoura’s marina buzzes with nightlife, while towns like Lagos or Faro offer local charm and historic sights.

 

Book your golf getaway today and stay in luxury accommodation

Once you’ve sorted your desired destination, it’s then time to sort out where you’ll be staying, and that’s where we come in. At the Real Algarve, we have a vast range of luxury Algarve golf villas located across all the regions discussed in this blog, all within close proximity to these wonderful courses.

Our luxury Algarve villas are suitable for families, golf trips, and more! If you need anything during your stay, or support with golfing queries, then our concierge service partners will be more than happy to assist. If you’d like to speak to a member of our team, simply contact us today and we can help you find the perfect villa for your golf break.