The Clubhouse

Your ultimate guide to golf in the Algarve

Joel Martin
Joel Martin
9 mins read
The Algarve continues to be our #1 destination for overseas travel. Join us as we take a deep dive into its seven sensational regions …
Golf & beachVillasBucket listPortugalGolf & nightlifeGolf & gastronomy

A destination that rightly needs no introduction, golf holidays in the Algarve are a firm favourite among golfers. With an abundance of top-class courses and resorts, golden sandy beaches, thriving nightlife, and year-round sun, all under a three-hour flight from the UK, it has it all!

Across this slice of Southern Portugal, you’ll find more than 40 incredible golf courses, a myriad of options for accommodation, stunning marinas, breathtaking scenery, exquisite culinary experiences, and a fabulously warm welcome! Everything you need to make your next trip truly unforgettable.

What’s more, due to its longstanding popularity with visiting golfers, Golfbreaks have developed an incredible ecosystem for travellers, with easy airport transfers and free shuttle services between many of the leading hotels and golf courses, helping to remove any unnecessary organisational stress from your break!

Each of the Algarve’s seven regions brings something unique to the table. Join us on this guide to the Algarve and explore what makes every corner of this coastal gem so special.

Travel tips

  • Best time to visit: The Algarve is a year-round golf destination, but the best conditions are typically from May to September, with long sunny days, minimal rainfall, and perfect playing weather. Although if you're looking for value, consider months like March & October
  • Booking tee times: With over 40 courses to choose from, we recommend booking in advance, especially for popular courses like Monte Rei, the Old Course Vilamoura, and San Lorenzo.
  • Travel essentials: With over 300 days of sunshine annually, you won’t need to worry too much about rain, however don't forget to pack light layers and sun protection for comfort on and off the course.

But first, why go to the Algarve?

  • Easy access & ideal weather - With up to five direct flights daily from the UK and over 300 days of sunshine each year, getting to the Algarve is quick and the conditions are perfect for a sun-soaked golf holiday.
  • World-class golf & stunning accommodation - Home to multiple excellent courses, including Monte Rei, San Lorenzo, and the Old Course Vilamoura, the Algarve is a top golfing destination. Stay in luxury hotels or self-catering resorts across the region, all offering easy access to the fairways and local attractions.
  • Beaches & coastal beauty - The Algarve is home to some of Europe’s most scenic beaches, with golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. Relax at Praia da Falesia or enjoy ocean views from Praia do Vale do Lobo, just steps from premier golf courses.
  • Charming towns & rich culture - Explore the traditional charm of towns like Tavira, Lagos, and Alvor. With cobbled streets, historical landmarks, Moorish influences, artisan markets, and live Fado music, the region is full of authentic Portuguese culture.
  • Delicious cuisine & lively evenings - From fresh seafood to top-tier steakhouses like Bovino, the Algarve offers flavours for every palate. As night falls, enjoy lively bars, beach clubs, or a peaceful dinner overlooking the sea.

Each region of the Algarve has something different, let's explore what each one has to offer...

1. Vilamoura

Best for top-tier golf & nightlife For golfers who want world-class courses paired with Vilamoura’s buzzing marina and social scene.

Airport: Faro, 30 mins | Our experts recommend: Nov to March | Best value: Feb & Nov

With great hotels, nightlife, and plenty of courses nearby, Vilamoura is without doubt the crown jewel for golf holidays in the Algarve. Known for its world-class courses like the famous Victoria Golf Course, home of the Portugal Masters, and the acclaimed Old Course, one of the region's most historic courses, Vilamoura is a must-visit for any golfer.

On top of this, we offer some fantastic accommodation in and around the town centre, be that all-encompassing golf resorts, or apartments and villas for that home-away-from-home experience.

Beyond the fairways, Vilamoura is known for its lively marina, excellent bars, restaurants, and a casino, providing plenty of entertainment off the course. Visitors can also relax on Vilamoura’s stunning sandy beach, explore nearby water parks, or visit the Cerro da Vila Roman ruins. Nature lovers will enjoy a trip to the breathtaking Ria Formosa lagoon.

With outstanding golf, great weather, and endless leisure options, Vilamoura golf trips deliver an unforgettable experience in one of Europe’s premier golf destinations.

Top reasons to visit:

  • Free golf shuttles to take you to and from courses at selected venues
  • Plenty of bars and restaurants all within walking distance of hotels
  • A huge range of quality courses, all within 20 mins

The Old Course at Dom Pedro

“An excellent trip to Vilamoura. Within 1 hour of touching down at Faro, we were in our hotel. The golf transfers matched the airport transfer.” ~ Brian, a golfbreaks customer

Where you should play in Vilamoura

  • Old Course, Vilamoura - The crown jewel of Vilamoura & a true Algarve classic As one of the region’s most historic courses, the Old Course Dom Pedro charms golfers with its majestic pine-lined fairways and timeless layout. Known as the “Grande Dame” of the Algarve, this course offers a memorable, traditional golf experience.

  • Victoria - A European Tour favourite & home of the Portugal Masters Designed by Arnold Palmer, Victoria is a modern championship course that tests every part of your game. With wide fairways, large undulating greens, and water hazards, it’s one of the Algarve’s premier tournament venues.

  • Millennium - A fun and varied course that’s perfect for all abilities Millennium combines open parkland holes with tighter, tree-lined challenges. Whether you’re a low-handicapper or a casual golfer, it's a mix of risk-and-reward holes that makes it an enjoyable round every time.

  • Laguna - A strategic test with plenty of water and open landscapes With its coastal feel and numerous lakes, Laguna rewards precision and smart course management. Wide fairways and generous greens make it playable, but the water hazards will keep you on your toes, so be ready!

  • Pestana Vila Sol - A beautifully crafted course set among natural lakes and woodlands Vila Sol offers 27 holes of championship golf, blending rolling fairways, water features, and challenging bunkers. With its peaceful setting and immaculate condition, it’s a top choice for golfers visiting the Algarve

  • Pinhal - A peaceful, tree-lined course with old-world charm Pinhal winds through beautiful umbrella pines and boasts elevated greens and doglegs that demand thoughtful shot-making. It’s a delightful, tranquil course with a touch of old Algarve charm.

Domes Lake Algarve

Where you should stay in Vilamoura

Best for championship golf & luxury For those seeking world-class golf paired with five-star amenities.

  • Dom Pedro Vilamoura – Ideally located near several top courses, including the iconic Old Course and Victoria. This elegant hotel offers golfers a stylish base with modern comforts, great dining, and access to Vilamoura’s vibrant marina.
  • Tivoli Marina Vilamoura – A landmark luxury hotel right on the marina, Tivoli Marina combines sophistication with stunning sea views. With a renowned spa, excellent restaurants, and close proximity to Vilamoura’s courses, it’s a superb choice for golfers looking to indulge.

Best for marina-side stays Perfect for golfers who want to enjoy Vilamoura’s buzzing social scene.

  • Crowne Plaza Vilamoura – A contemporary seafront hotel offering stylish accommodation and excellent leisure facilities. Located near the marina and beaches, it’s a fantastic option for golfers who want a mix of relaxation and nightlife.

Best for tranquil & upscale escapes For those seeking a peaceful retreat with a touch of luxury.

  • Domes Lake Algarve – A five-star resort surrounded by nature, featuring serene lake views, elegant rooms, and gourmet dining. It’s a perfect haven for golfers wanting to unwind after a day on the fairways, while still being close to Vilamoura’s courses.

Our restaurant recommendations:

  • Ostra D’Ouro Restaurant Grill: A refined seafood grill by the sea, known for its oysters, ocean-fresh cuisine, and breezy coastal charm.
  • Akvavit: A chic marina-side gem blending Scandinavian flavours with Mediterranean flair, offering waterfront dining and a cosmopolitan vibe.

2. Albufeira

Best for lively golf escapes For those looking to combine top-tier golf with Albufeira’s energetic nightlife and beaches.

Airport: Faro, 40 mins | Our experts recommend: March & Oct | Best value: Feb & Nov

Albufeira is one of the Algarve’s most popular destinations for golf holidays, offering world-class courses, golden beaches, and a lively atmosphere. With a range of golf courses suited to all skill levels and a fantastic year-round climate, Albufeira promises an unforgettable golf experience.

When you’re off the course, the stunning beaches invite you to relax or enjoy water sports, adding a luxurious touch to your Albufeira golf break. The Old Town charms visitors with its cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and authentic Portuguese cuisine, offering a perfect blend of culture and leisure.

As the sun sets, Albufeira comes alive with a buzzing bar and restaurant scene, making it ideal for golfers who enjoy vibrant nightlife after a day on the fairways.

With its unbeatable combination of golf, beaches, nightlife, and culture, Albufeira delivers the ultimate golf getaway in the Algarve.

Reasons to visit

  • The famous ‘Strip’ will keep you entertained until the early hours
  • Wide selection of all inclusive hotels
  • Free golf transfers to Faldo & O’Connor courses from selected venues

Albufeira coast

“Albufeira was an excellent location for both golf and nightlife which is exactly what we were looking for. Every transfer was on time.” ~ Callum, a golfbreaks customer

Where you should play in Albufeira

  • Amendoeira Faldo Course - A championship test designed by Sir Nick Faldo The Faldo Course demands precision and course management, with rugged bunkering, rocky outcrops, and elevated greens. As one of the Algarve’s finest championship layouts, it’s a must-play for golfers seeking a serious challenge.

  • Amendoeira O’Connor Jnr. Course - A scenic, water-lined challenge in the Algarve countryside Designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr., this course weaves through palm-lined lakes and streams, offering a fun yet strategic layout. Wide fairways and large greens make it enjoyable for all levels, while water hazards keep you on your toes.

  • Salgados Golf - A coastal course with stunning wetlands & abundant wildlife Set beside a protected nature reserve, Salgados is known for its links-style feel and water hazards on nearly every hole. With its flat terrain and ocean breezes, it delivers and fun a unique Algarve golf experience.

  • Additionally, Albufeira isn't too far away from the golf hub of the Algarve with the Vilamoura Golf Collection (Dom Pedro Courses) closeby.

The Faldo Course at Amendoeira Golf Resort

Where you should stay in Albufeira

Best for championship golf & home comforts For golfers seeking world-class courses in a peaceful, all-in-one resort setting.

  • Amendoeira Golf Resort – Home to the renowned Faldo and O’Connor Jnr. courses, Amendoeira, one of our best-selling resorts, offers spacious villas and apartments, beautiful countryside views, and excellent on-site amenities. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting a complete golf resort experience away from the crowds.

Best for lively all-inclusive beachside stays Perfect for golfers who want to combine sun, sea, and all-inclusive fun.

  • Muthu Oura Praia Hotel – Located near the famous Oura Beach and Albufeira’s buzzing strip, this hotel offers bright, comfortable accommodation with a relaxed vibe. It’s great for golfers who want easy access to both championship golf and lively evenings.
  • São Rafael Suite Hotel – Just a short stroll from São Rafael Beach, this all-suite hotel offers spacious accommodations, lush gardens, and excellent dining. It’s perfect for golfers wanting a quiet, upscale escape while staying close to Albufeira’s courses.

Best for authentic town stays For those wanting to experience the charm of Albufeira with golf close by.

  • Vila Galé Cerro Alagoa – Set near Albufeira’s old town and beaches, this modern hotel features spacious rooms, a great pool area, and a friendly atmosphere. It’s an excellent base for golfers looking to enjoy both the fairways and Albufeira’s top dining and entertainment.

Our restaurant recommendations:

  • The Market Restaurant: A contemporary bistro with market-fresh ingredients, global inspiration, and a stylish, urban ambiance.
  • Mato à Vista: A rustic retreat in the countryside, serving traditional Algarve fare with local wines and warm, authentic hospitality.

3. Tavira

Best for relaxed golf getaways For golfers seeking a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere in the charming town of Tavira.

Airport: Faro, 30 mins | Our experts recommend: May & Oct | Best value: March - May & Oct

Tavira, located in eastern Algarve near the Spanish border, offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for an unforgettable golf holiday. Known for its serene atmosphere, this area is a fantastic alternative to the busier Algarve resorts, making it perfect for golfers seeking relaxation alongside world-class golf.

While smaller in number, Tavira offers some of the finest golf courses in Europe. Highlights include the renowned Monte Rei Golf Resort, widely considered one of Portugal’s best courses, offering fantastic golf and breathtaking views.

There is a range of excellent accommodation options, from luxury hotels to charming local stays, ensuring every Tavira golf holiday is comfortable and memorable.

Off the course, Tavira enchants visitors with its cobbled streets, historic charm, and unspoiled natural beauty. The careful design of local golf courses preserves this landscape, creating a seamless blend of golf and nature that sets golf in Tavira apart from other regions.

Reasons to visit:

  • Home to one of the finest courses in Europe
  • The region remains relatively undiscovered and is perfect for a more relaxed golf break
  • Regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in the Algarve

Gilao River, Tavira

“Another great golf break to Tavira in Portugal trip was easy. Transfers and Buggies all arranged enabling us to turn up relax and play some golf.” ~ David, a golfbreaks customer

Where you should play in Tavira

  • Monte Rei Golf & Country Club - Portugal’s No.1 course & a true golfing masterpiece Designed by Jack Nicklaus, Monte Rei is consistently ranked as Portugal’s best course. With immaculate conditioning, stunning mountain views, and impeccable service, it’s an unforgettable golf experience from start to finish.

  • Quinta do Vale Golf Resort - A dramatic, Seve Ballesteros-designed challenge Quinta do Vale blends spectacular scenery with an exciting layout shaped by one of golf’s legends. With plenty of water hazards, risk-reward holes, and wide fairways, it’s a breathtaking and thrilling test for golfers of all levels.

  • Quinta da Ria Golf Course - Breathtaking coastal golf with natural beauty Set alongside the Ria Formosa nature reserve, Quinta da Ria offers stunning ocean views, ancient carob trees, and gently rolling fairways. It’s a peaceful, picturesque course that showcases the Algarve’s unspoiled charm.

  • Benamor Golf Course - A welcoming, scenic course with a relaxed atmosphere Benamor was the first golf course built east of Faro, offering a friendly layout with mountain and sea views. Its tree-lined fairways and excellent year-round conditions make it a favourite for a laid-back round.

  • Castro Marim Golf & Country Club - A hidden gem with panoramic countryside views Located near the Spanish border, Castro Marim features three loops of nine, blending rolling hills, pine forests, and lakes. With its tranquil setting and varied layout, it’s one of the Algarve’s most enjoyable and underrated courses.

Monte Rei Golf Resort, North Course

Where you should stay in Tavira

Best for ultra-luxury golf escapes For golfers seeking one of Europe’s finest courses paired with five-star elegance.

  • Monte Rei Golf & Country Club – Home to Portugal’s top-ranked Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, Monte Rei offers luxurious villas, impeccable service, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a peaceful countryside setting. It’s the ultimate destination for golfers looking to combine championship golf with world-class hospitality.

Best for all-inclusive beach getaways Perfect for golfers who want a relaxed, eco-friendly retreat by the sea.

  • AP Cabanas Beach & Nature – Overlooking the Ria Formosa, this adults-only hotel blends modern style with a focus on sustainability. With rooftop pools, fresh local cuisine, and easy access to Tavira’s top courses, it’s ideal for golfers seeking both relaxation and nature.

  • Robinson Quinta da Ria – Set between two acclaimed courses, this all-inclusive resort offers a dynamic blend of golf, wellness, and leisure. With extensive sports amenities, vibrant evening entertainment, and a location near the Ria Formosa, it’s perfect for golfers who want an energetic yet relaxing getaway.

Best for authentic town stays For those wanting to experience the charm of Tavira with golf close by.

  • Vila Galé Tavira – Located in the heart of Tavira, this welcoming hotel combines Portuguese character with modern comforts. With a short drive to excellent courses like Quinta da Ria and Benamor, it’s a great base for golfers wanting to explore both golf and local culture.

Our restaurant recommendations:

  • Ponto de Encontro: A welcoming neighbourhood spot where Portuguese classics meet casual dining, perfect for relaxed meals and friendly gatherings.
  • Gilão: A scenic riverside eatery in Tavira, offering regional dishes, fresh fish, and tranquil views over the Gilão River.

4. Quinta do Lago / Vale do Lobo

Best for luxury golf experiences For those wanting to play at one of Europe’s most prestigious golf resorts in Quinta do Lago.

Airport: Faro, 15 mins | Our experts recommend: Nov to March | Best value: Feb & Nov

Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo are two of the Algarve’s most prestigious golf resorts, offering golfers a world-class experience both on and off the course. Known for their stunning championship layouts, including the iconic South Course, North Course, and Laranjal at Quinta do Lago, as well as the famous Royal and Ocean Courses at Vale do Lobo, these resorts deliver some of the finest golf holidays in Portugal.

Located in Faro near the beautiful Ria Formosa nature reserve and along the Algarve coastline, these resorts combine superb golf with luxury accommodation, fine dining, and exceptional leisure facilities. With a mild, sunny climate year-round, golf in Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo is perfect for those seeking an unforgettable, fun golf break.

Reasons to visit:

  • Under 35 mins from Faro airport
  • Free golf transfers to Quinta do Lago & Vale do Lobo golf courses from selected venues
  • This region delivers a five-star experience like no other

Quinta South Course

“Hotel Quinta do Lago in the Algarve - what a fantastic hotel! Shuttle service was provided when we played Laranjal and both Quinta South and North.” ~ Rob, a golfbreaks customer

Where you should play in Quinta do Labo

  • Quinta do Lago North Course - A modern championship layout with a fun, strategic edge Redesigned in 2014 by Beau Welling and Paul McGinley, the North Course features wide fairways, bold bunkering, and undulating greens. It’s a dynamic and enjoyable course that rewards both precision and creativity.

  • Quinta do Lago South Course - An Algarve icon & former European Tour host The South Course is a true championship test, having hosted the Portuguese Open multiple times. With beautiful lakes, pine trees, and sweeping fairways, it’s widely regarded as one of the Algarve’s finest courses.

  • Laranjal Golf Course - A stunning inland gem with orange groves and rolling terrain Originally an orange grove, Laranjal is now a beautifully manicured course with fast greens, rolling fairways, and five lakes. It offers a peaceful, entertaining, and scenic round that’s both challenging and rewarding.

  • The Royal Course - A spectacular clifftop course with one of Europe’s most photographed holes The Royal Course at Vale do Lobo is famous for its iconic par-3 16th over the cliffs, but the rest of the course is equally memorable. With dramatic views, challenging water hazards, and immaculate fairways, it’s a must-play on any Algarve golf trip.

  • The Ocean Course - Seaside golf at its most beautiful The Ocean Course at Vale do Lobo winds through pine forests before opening up to breathtaking sea views along the Algarve coastline. Its mix of parkland and links-style and offers a wonderfully enjoyable round with plenty of charm and challenge.

Royal Course at Vale do Lobo

Where you should stay in Quinta do Lago

Best for boutique charm & laid-back luxury For golfers seeking a stylish, relaxed stay near Quinta do Lago’s top courses.

The Magnolia Hotel – A chic boutique hotel with a fun, retro vibe, The Magnolia offers vibrant design, a lively atmosphere, and excellent value. It’s perfect for golfers who want to enjoy Quinta do Lago’s world-class courses with a playful, relaxed base.

Best for all-suite comfort in the heart of Quinta do Lago Ideal for golfers looking for space, privacy, and five-star service.

Wyndham Grand Algarve – Set within Quinta do Lago, this all-suite resort delivers spacious, elegant accommodation with top-tier amenities. With championship golf courses just moments away, it’s an excellent choice for golfers wanting luxury and convenience.

Conrad Algarve – One of the Algarve’s most luxurious hotels, Conrad offers sleek rooms, Michelin-starred dining, and a world-class spa. It’s a superb base for golfers who want to pair world-class golf with indulgent relaxation.

Best for luxury resort living with golf on the doorstep Perfect for golfers seeking a classic Algarve resort experience.

Vale do Lobo Resort – Home to the iconic Royal and Ocean courses, Vale do Lobo combines luxurious villas, stunning beaches, and a lively central square. It’s a complete golf resort, offering everything from championship golf to upscale dining and entertainment.

Our restaurant recommendations:

  • Bovino Steakhouse: A sleek, upscale steakhouse with premium cuts, bold flavours, and a lively, sophisticated setting.
  • Casa do Lago: A serene lakeside restaurant, offering fresh seafood, stunning views, and relaxed elegance.

5. Alvor

Best for beach & championship golf For golfers who want to enjoy golden beaches alongside excellent championship courses in Alvor.

Airport: Faro, 50 mins | Our experts recommend: Feb - May & Sept - Oct | Best value: March & Nov

Alvor, located less than an hour west of Faro Airport, is a charming and peaceful destination perfect for a relaxing golf holiday in the Algarve. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings, Alvor offers some of the best golf resorts in the Algarve.

Golfers can enjoy several excellent courses nearby, with layouts to challenge all skill levels. Combined with a mild year-round climate, golf in Alvor is ideal for those seeking both quality golf and a tranquil escape.

Beyond the fairways, Alvor boasts stunning beaches, the scenic Ancão Nature Reserve, and a wide range of outdoor activities such as bike rides, boat tours, and birdwatching. After a day on the course or exploring, visitors can unwind at the town’s welcoming bars and restaurants, where delicious Portuguese cuisine awaits.

For golfers looking for a peaceful, sun-soaked getaway with top-notch golf and authentic charm, Alvor golf holidays are the perfect choice.

Reasons to visit:

  • Dom Joao is a short walk from Alvor’s bars and restaurants
  • Penina’s Dunas Beach Restaurant is great for lunch, open June - September
  • Kartódromo Internacional is a great karting track for the non golf day

Alvor

“Playing 6 games of golf on different courses in 8 days. The courses are fantastic, great area, the town of Alvor had everything we wanted.” ~ Ian, a golfbreaks customer

Where you should play in Alvor

  • Gramacho Golf Course - A creative, rolling layout designed for all abilities Co-designed by Nick Price, Gramacho features sculpted fairways, natural stone outcrops, and clever bunkering. With its varied holes and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a favourite for both casual and serious golfers.

  • Penina Championship Golf Course - The Algarve’s original championship course & a timeless classic Designed by Sir Henry Cotton, this excellent course is where Algarve golf began. With tree-lined fairways, elevated greens, and a rich tournament history, it remains a must-play for lovers of classic championship golf.

  • Vale da Pinta Golf Course - A beautifully maintained parkland course with stunning scenery Vale da Pinta impresses with rolling fairways, mature carob and olive trees, and challenging greens. Known for its excellent condition and welcoming atmosphere, it’s one of the Algarve’s most enjoyable rounds.

  • Pestana Alto Golf Course - A relaxed, scenic course with one of the Algarve’s longest holes Another Sir Henry Cotton design, Alto is set among rolling hills with sweeping sea views. It’s home to the famous par-5 16th, the longest hole in the region, offering a fun test for golfers of all levels.

Vale Da Pinta Golf Club

Where you should stay in Alvor

Best for beachside relaxation with golf nearby Perfect for golfers wanting to combine sunny seaside stays with excellent local courses.

  • Dom João II Hotel – Set right on Alvor’s beautiful beach, this comfortable hotel offers sea-view rooms, lush gardens, and easy access to nearby courses like Alto and Penina. It’s a great choice for golfers who want a laid-back stay by the ocean.
  • Pestana Blue Alvor Beach – Just steps from the beach, Pestana Delfim is an all-inclusive hotel with a lively atmosphere, poolside bars, and comfortable rooms. It’s perfect for golf groups wanting a fun, convenient home base.

Best for clifftop luxury with stunning sea views For golfers seeking an elegant beach escape with a touch of sophistication.

  • Pestana Alvor Praia – Perched above Alvor Beach, this five-star hotel offers stylish rooms, an excellent spa, and breathtaking coastal views. With top golf courses just a short drive away, it’s a superb base for golfers looking to unwind in style.

Best for classic golf resort tradition For golfers looking to immerse themselves in Algarve golf history.

  • Penina Hotel & Golf Resort – Home to the Algarve’s first championship course, Penina is a timeless golf resort offering elegant accommodation, a full range of leisure facilities, and three on-site courses. It’s a must for golfers wanting a classic, all-in-one golf experience.

Our restaurant recommendations:

  • A Ribeira: An elegant riverfront restaurant serving seafood and seasonal dishes with amazing views and a calm, peaceful air.
  • Caniço: A dramatic clifftop restaurant nestled in the rocks, featuring fresh seafood, stunning sea views, and a magical cave entrance.

6. Lagos

Best for chilled-out golf retreats For those craving a laid-back coastal vibe with the challenge of Lagos’ scenic courses.

Airport: Faro, 1 hour | Our experts recommend: Feb - May & Sept - Oct | Best value: March & Nov

Lagos, located on the western edge of the Algarve, is often called the region’s best-kept golfing secret. While slightly less known than other Algarve hotspots, golf in Lagos is truly outstanding, offering superb courses in pristine condition and a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere.

With a range of courses catering to all skill levels, golfers can enjoy diverse challenges across the area’s top layouts. Being less of a resort town than other areas in the region, everything in Lagos is open during the winter. Thanks to the region’s mild, sunny climate, Lagos golf holidays are perfect year-round, combining excellent golf with time to unwind on the area’s beautiful beaches.

Off the course, visitors can explore Lagos’ charming town, historic sites, multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, and scenic coastline. Easily accessible from Faro Airport, Lagos offers everything golfers need for a memorable and peaceful Algarve golf break without the crowds.

Reasons to visit:

  • Sit on the terrace of the refurbished Palmares, cold beer in hand, enjoying and the incredible view
  • Praia do Camilo & Ponta da Piedade are well worth a visit once golf has concluded
  • The Wake Park Lagos is the only one in the Algarve

Ponta da Piedada, Lagos

“We recently returned from a trip to Portugal. Everybody had an excellent time. Golf, hotel and transport all organised perfectly.” ~ John, a golfbreaks customer

Where you should play in Lagos

  • Palmares Golf - Breathtaking coastal golf with links and parkland charm Set above Meia Praia beach, Palmares combines sweeping ocean views with a mix of parkland and true links holes. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., it’s one of the Algarve’s most stunning and memorable courses.

  • Espiche Golf - A sustainable gem with a natural, inland setting Espiche offers a unique eco-friendly golf experience, blending seamlessly into the Algarve countryside. With rolling fairways, native vegetation, and a strategic layout, it’s a rewarding round in a beautifully preserved landscape.

  • Boavista Golf - A scenic and welcoming course with Atlantic views Boavista delights with elevated tees, rolling fairways, and panoramic sea views. Known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent conditioning, it’s a great choice for a fun and challenging round near Lagos.

Palmares Golf Club

Where you should stay in Lagos

Best for charming town stays with golf close by Perfect for golfers wanting to combine rounds with local culture and seaside charm.

  • Tivoli Lagos – Located in the heart of Lagos, this boutique-style hotel offers a blend of traditional charm and modern comfort. With easy access to Palmares, Boavista, and Espiche golf courses, it’s an excellent base for golfers who want to explore the town’s historic streets and nearby beaches.
  • Palmares Signature Apartments – These sleek, contemporary apartments offer panoramic views of the ocean and the fairways. With elegant design, full self-catering amenities, and immediate access to one of the Algarve’s premier courses, it’s an ideal choice for independent golfers who value privacy and style.

Best for resort comfort with golf & spa on-site Ideal for golfers seeking a relaxing stay with everything under one roof.

  • Boavista Golf & Spa Resort – Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and ocean views, Boavista offers stylish villas and apartments, an on-site golf course, and a luxury spa. It’s perfect for golfers wanting a peaceful, all-in-one retreat just minutes from Lagos.

Our restaurant recommendations:

  • Dom Henrique: A charming rooftop restaurant, known for its classic Portuguese cuisine, sunset views, and attentive service.
  • O Camilo: A beloved cliffside seafood spot above Praia do Camilo, renowned for its catch-of-the-day and breathtaking ocean scenery.

7. Carvoeiro

Best for tranquil, self-catered stays For golfers who prefer a peaceful setting and the flexibility of apartment or villa stays in Carvoeiro.

Airport: Faro, 45 mins | Our experts recommend: March & Oct | Best value: Feb & Nov

Carvoeiro may be lesser-known, but it’s fast becoming a favourite among golfers seeking an unforgettable golf holiday in Portugal. Surrounded by top-class courses like Pinta Golf Course, Gramacho, and Silves Golf Course, golf in Carvoeiro delivers the exceptional quality and challenge the Algarve is famous for.

Beyond the fairways, Carvoeiro offers a perfect balance of history, culture, and laid-back charm. Its warm, sunny climate makes it a superb year-round destination, ideal for combining golf with relaxation. Frequent and affordable flights from the UK to Faro Airport make getting to Carvoeiro easy and convenient.

Reasons to visit:

  • Home to our most popular unlimited golf package at Pestana Golf Resort
  • The re-vamped Tivoli Carvoeiro offers incredible sea views
  • Carvoeiro Boardwalk has some stunning views across the coast

Calvoeira

“Pestana Viking in Porches. The hotel was great (got a free upgrade to a suite) and the weather and golf was superb, hard to believe it was February!” ~ Callum, a golfbreaks customer

Where you should play in Carvoeiro

  • Pestana Gramacho Golf - A creative design with charm and variety at every turn Gramacho, co-designed by Nick Price, features rolling fairways, dramatic rock outcrops, and cleverly placed bunkers. With its mix of challenge and playability, it’s a firm favourite among Algarve golfers.

  • Vale da Pinta Golf - A beautifully manicured course framed by ancient olive trees Vale da Pinta impresses with its parkland layout, mature trees, and consistently excellent course conditions. It’s known for providing a balanced, enjoyable test for golfers of all abilities.

  • Pestana Silves Golf - A peaceful escape with a scenic countryside backdrop Silves is a hidden gem, offering a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the Monchique Mountains. With wide fairways and well-defended greens, it’s a rewarding and relaxed round away from the crowds.

Gramacho Golf Club

Where you should stay in Carvoeiro

Best for apartment stays & group getaways Ideal for golf groups and families wanting space, flexibility, and a relaxed coastal vibe.

  • Pestana Golf Resort – Just a 10-minute drive from the heart of Carvoeiro, Pestana Golf Resort offers a mix of spacious apartments and villas perfect for groups. With easy access to stunning beaches and the renowned Gramacho and Vale da Pinta courses, it’s a fantastic choice for a tranquil golf escape.
  • Pestana Gramacho Residences – Offering a flexible mix of hotel rooms and self-catered apartments, Pestana Gramacho Resort is a great base for golfers who want the best of both worlds. Guests can enjoy bed & breakfast options, two excellent on-site restaurants, or head into town to explore Carvoeiro’s lively dining scene.

Best for charming town stays with golf close by Perfect for golfers wanting to combine rounds with local culture and seaside charm.

  • Tivoli Carvoeiro – Perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic, Tivoli Carvoeiro combines four-star comfort with breathtaking sea views. With a free shuttle service to the region’s top courses and excellent dining on-site, it’s a superb option for golfers wanting a more pampered stay.

Our restaurant recommendations:

  • Chef’s Kitchen: An intimate, chef-driven dining experience offering creative tasting menus, fine wines, and modern culinary artistry.
  • Rei das Praias: A beachfront haven with gourmet seafood, laid-back luxury, and the soothing soundtrack of waves on the sand.
Considering an Algarve golf holiday?
When we think of the Algarve, we’re reminded of golden beaches, world-class golf courses, fresh seafood, charming towns, and endless sunshine.

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Joel Martin avatar
Joel Martin

Product Manager - Europe

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