Best golf courses in the Algarve

Ranked 3rd in the Algarve according to Top 100 Courses

Location: Vilamoura | Par: 73 | Designer: Frank Pennink | Opened: 1969

The Old Course is one of the Algarve’s most iconic layouts and remains a firm favourite with golfers returning year after year. Carved through towering umbrella pines, it demands accuracy from the tee and rewards strategic positioning over brute force.

A classic parkland design, the course has evolved with modern updates while retaining its traditional charm. Each hole feels framed by nature, delivering a timeless Algarve experience in the heart of Vilamoura.

Signature hole: Tree-lined par-4s that require precision driving and disciplined shot shaping.

3 reasons to play The Old Course:

• One of the Algarve’s most historic and respected layouts.
• Stunning pine-framed fairways with a classic parkland feel.
• Prime Vilamoura location close to marina, beaches and nightlife.

Bonus fact: Often referred to as the ‘Grand Old Lady’ of Algarve golf.

The South Course has hosted the Portuguese Open eight times

Location: Quinta do Lago | Par: 72 | Designer: William Mitchell | Opened: 1974

The South Course is the flagship layout at Quinta do Lago and one of the Algarve’s premier championship venues. A multiple-time host of the Portuguese Open, it combines immaculate conditioning with strategic water hazards and superb green complexes.

The closing stretch is where the South truly earns its reputation. With water in play and subtly shaped greens placing a premium on accuracy, the final holes demand composure and smart course management, ensuring the round finishes with genuine championship drama.

Signature hole: The par-4 15th, with water guarding the approach, is a pivotal late-round test.

3 reasons to play Quinta do Lago South:

• Proven European Tour host venue.
• Exceptional conditioning throughout the year.
• Central location within one of Europe’s most prestigious golf resorts.

Bonus fact: Widely regarded as the standout course within the Quinta do Lago portfolio.

Luxury Jack Nicklaus design in the Eastern Algarve

Location: Tavira | Par: 72 | Designer: Jack Nicklaus | Opened: 2007

Set in the serene foothills of the Serra do Caldeirão Mountains, the North Course at Monte Rei delivers a premium golfing experience from start to finish. Generous tee intervals create a relaxed pace of play, allowing golfers to fully appreciate the immaculate conditioning and peaceful surroundings.

The layout blends seamlessly into the natural landscape, with water features and subtle elevation changes adding both beauty and challenge.

Signature hole: The par-3 13th, played over water to a well-protected green.

3 reasons to play Monte Rei:

• Jack Nicklaus Signature design with world-class presentation.
• Exclusive, unhurried golfing experience.
• Regularly ranked among Portugal’s very best courses.

Bonus fact: Monte Rei is frequently positioned as the No.1 course in Portugal.

Modern links-style golf overlooking Lagos

Location: Lagos | Par: 72 | Designer: Robert Trent Jones Jr. | Redesigned: 2011

Overlooking Meia Praia beach and the Bay of Lagos, Palmares is one of the Algarve’s most visually striking layouts. The Robert Trent Jones Jr. redesign created a course that blends parkland, dunes and links-style holes into one flowing routing.

Coastal breezes are a defining feature here, ensuring that no two rounds play the same. Club selection becomes crucial, particularly on the exposed stretches, adding a strategic dimension that perfectly complements the dramatic setting.

Signature hole: Coastal-facing back-nine holes offering panoramic Atlantic views.

3 reasons to play Palmares:

• Spectacular setting high above the Algarve coastline.
• Links-inspired design with dramatic elevation changes.
• Three distinct nine-hole loops offering variety.

Bonus fact: Palmares combines inland and true links-style characteristics in one round.

Ria Formosa's beauty and championship quality

Location: Quinta do Lago | Par: 72 | Designer: Joseph Lee | Opened: 1988

Set alongside the lagoons of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, San Lorenzo is one of the Algarve’s most scenic and respected layouts. Pine-lined fairways open out to dramatic waterside holes, creating a memorable and varied round.

The stretch along the water is widely regarded as some of the finest golf in Portugal. Here, risk and reward are perfectly balanced, with bold carries and strategic angles offering scoring opportunities for confident players, while punishing anything slightly offline.

Signature hole: The par-5 8th, wrapping around the lagoon with water in play throughout.

3 reasons to play San Lorenzo:

• Stunning natural setting within the Ria Formosa reserve.
• Championship-level layout with strategic water hazards.
• Consistently ranked among the Algarve’s top courses.

Bonus fact: San Lorenzo is often described as one of the region’s true must-plays.

Contemporary championship test with superb conditioning

Location: Quinta do Lago | Par: 72 | Designer: Jorge Santana da Silva | Opened: 2009

Originally an orange grove, Laranjal has developed into one of the Algarve’s most highly regarded modern layouts. Wide fairways encourage positive play, but cleverly contoured greens and well-positioned bunkers ensure a strategic test.

Known for its immaculate presentation, Laranjal provides a quieter, more secluded feel within the Quinta do Lago estate.

Signature hole: The par-5 18th, a strong finishing hole with water shaping the final approach.

3 reasons to play Laranjal:

• Championship layout with pristine year-round conditioning.
• Strategic green complexes rewarding accurate approaches.
• Completes the trio of outstanding Quinta do Lago courses.

Bonus fact: Laranjal consistently ranks among the Algarve’s top modern designs.

Strategic inland masterpiece by a Major champion

Location: Alcantarilha | Par: 72 | Designer: Sir Nick Faldo | Opened: 2008

The Faldo Course at Amendoeira is known for its bold bunkering, rolling terrain and demanding green complexes. Although set slightly inland, it delivers dramatic elevation changes and sweeping views across the Algarve countryside.

Strategic shot placement is essential, making it a rewarding challenge for golfers of all abilities.

Signature hole: The closing stretch, where water and bunkering create a thrilling finish.

3 reasons to play The Faldo Course:

• Sir Nick Faldo design with strong strategic emphasis.
• Dramatic inland landscape and immaculate presentation.
• Ideal for groups seeking a challenging yet enjoyable test.

Bonus fact: Amendoeira offers extensive practice facilities, perfect for golf tours.

Clifftop drama and one of Europe’s most photographed holes

Location: Vale do Lobo | Par: 72 | Designer: Rocky Roquemore | Redesign: 1997

Set within the heart of Algarve, The Royal Course at Vale do Lobo is famed for its manicured resort presentation with a strong championship test. Rolling fairways weave between umbrella pines and open coastal terrain, creating constant variety from tee to green.

The layout demands thoughtful course management, with well-placed bunkers, subtle elevation changes and strategically protected greens rewarding accuracy over aggression. Immaculate conditioning and a premium resort setting make this a standout inclusion on any Algarve itinerary.

Signature hole: The par-3 16th, played across the cliffs to a green more than 200 yards away.

3 reasons to play Vale do Lobo Royal:

• One of Europe’s most iconic coastal par-3s.
• Championship-standard layout with ocean views.
• Perfect for combining golf with beachside luxury.

Bonus fact: The 16th alone is worth the green fee for many visiting golfers.

Sustainable design set in unspoilt Algarve countryside

Location: Vilamoura | Par: 71 | Designer: Jorge Santana da Silva | Opened: 2023

One of the Algarve’s more recent additions, Ombria offers a refreshing inland experience away from the coastal hotspots. Built with sustainability at its core, the course blends seamlessly into the rolling valleys and natural terrain.

Elevated tees, flowing fairways and scenic viewpoints make this a distinctive and memorable round.

Signature hole: A dramatic valley hole framed by natural Algarve countryside.

3 reasons to play Ombria:

• Modern, environmentally conscious design.
• Peaceful inland setting with panoramic views.
• Fresh addition to the Algarve’s championship portfolio.

Bonus fact: Ombria represents the new generation of Algarve golf developments.

The Algarve continues to set the standard for European golf holidays. Few destinations combine this level of championship pedigree, climate reliability and resort infrastructure in one compact, easy-to-navigate region.

What makes the Algarve stand out is its variety. You can tee it up on a European Tour venue in the morning, enjoy lunch overlooking the Atlantic, and still have time for beachside relaxation or marina nightlife in the evening. From the pine-framed classics of Vilamoura to the polished luxury of Quinta do Lago and the exclusivity of Monte Rei in the east, every style of golf break is catered for.

For first-time visitors, the central Algarve (Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo) offers the greatest concentration of elite courses and accommodation. For returning golfers, adding inland layouts or heading east provides a fresh perspective on a region that never disappoints.

Planning your trip correctly can make all the difference to your Algarve golf break. Here are a few key tips from our Golf Travel Experts:

Choose your base carefully:

• Vilamoura is ideal for golf & nightlife with easy access to multiple championship courses.
• Quinta do Lago & Vale do Lobo offer luxury resorts and high-end dining.
• Eastern Algarve (Monte Rei, Quinta da Ria) provides a quieter, more exclusive experience.

Best time to travel: Peak golfing seasons are March–May and September–November, offering ideal temperatures and excellent course conditions, whereas summer provides long daylight hours but higher temperatures. Winter remains very playable, with fewer crowds and strong value.

Book tee times early: The Algarve is one of Europe’s most in-demand golf destinations. Prime morning tee times, especially at Quinta do Lago and The Old Course, should be secured well in advance.

Consider transport options: Faro Airport serves the entire region, with most major resorts within 20–40 minutes. Airport transfers or pre-arranged transport are often easier for groups.

After countless trips to the Algarve our Golf Travel Experts are able to answer many of your questions about golf trips to the Algarve, here are some of the most popular ones we get:

Q: When is the best time to play golf in the Algarve? A: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the best balance of temperature, course condition and value. The region is playable year-round thanks to its mild climate.

Q: Which airport do I fly into for an Algarve golf holiday? A: Faro Airport (FAO) is the main gateway and is conveniently located close to the central Algarve’s main golf resorts.

Q: How many rounds should I play on a typical Algarve golf break? A: Most golfers book 3–5 rounds over a long weekend or 7-night stay. The concentration of top courses makes multi-course itineraries easy to organise.

Q: Can you combine golf with beach and nightlife? A: Easily. Many resorts are minutes from beaches, marinas and vibrant evening scenes, particularly in Vilamoura and Vale do Lobo.

For more Algarve travel tips visit our Algarve FAQs page.