The Clubhouse

Best golf resorts in Portugal

Matt Beahan
Matt Beahan
10 mins read
Long thought of as the home of the European golfing holiday, Portugal has rightly earned its reputation as one of the strongest destinations within our entire portfolio. We explore the very best stay & play options.
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With easy flights from the UK & Ireland, an abundance of courses and fantastic year-round weather, golf holidays in Portugal have long been a favourite for our customers over the past 20 years.

Whether you’re looking to head down to the golfing mecca of the Algarve, or explore the country’s capital, Lisbon, or even enjoy tranquil island golf in Madeira, Portugal provides a sensational golf holiday experience, and we’ve got a plethora of resorts to suit every group.

Away from the courses, we love the Mediterranean cuisine, sandy beaches, and first-class hospitality on show nationwide. So, without further ado, we present our curated list of the best golf resorts in Portugal!

Palmares Ocean Living & Golf Resort

Location: Lagos | Golf: Palmares Golf Club | Customer rating: 4.9

With two modern accommodation options, Palmares Ocean Living is one of our favourite resorts in the Algarve. The Palmares Signature Apartments are the perfect home-away-from-home, with 37 apartment buildings ranging from one to three bedrooms, overlooking the golf course.

Alternatively, Palmares Beach House Hotel offers an adults-only, boutique five-star experience overlooking the 27th hole and driving range. The swimming pool is the perfect relaxation point after a round of golf, and each room provides spacious balconies with panoramic views.

Palmares Beach House Hotel

Golf courses

Palmares Golf Club Rated 26th in the Top 100 Golf Courses in Europe, Palmares Golf Club is known as the Jewel in the Crown. The layout is a beautiful mix of inland and links-style holes, with some of the best views in the Algarve overlooking Lagos, the Alvor Estuary, and the Atlantic Ocean. The modern clubhouse is truly special, with even more incredible vistas and two restaurants (one with a Michelin Star) that are accessible for resort guests.

Travel tips

  • Transportation: The resort is approximately a 45-minute drive from Faro Airport. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility in exploring the Algarve region.

"Good challenging 3 lots of 9 holes. Really well setup for visitors, polite staff, amazing clubhouse with views plus enjoyable food and drink"

Warren Butcher (Golfbreaks customer)

Monte Rei Golf Resort

Locations: Tavira | Golf: Monte Rei Golf Course | Customer rating: 4.8

Arguably the country's most desirable golf resort, Monte Rei exudes five-star luxury. Boasting a world-class golf course and a long-list of amenities

Villas come with private pools, fully equipped kitchens, and outdoor BBQs, although with three on-site restaurants, including the former Michelin star Vistas restaurant, you needn’t fret when it comes to cooking dinner for your group!

A mix of villa sizes throughout the resort means that every group size is comfortably catered for, and non-golfers will be equally pleased with the incredible spa facilities available. All in all, you simply can’t go wrong with a golf holiday to Monte Rei.

Monte Rei Villas

Golf courses

Monte Rei North The on-site Jack Nicklaus Signature Course is frequently voted as the best in Portugal, with the resort inspired by traditional Portuguese architecture and hospitality throughout. The course offers a blend of strategic bunkering, elevation changes, and water features across 18 meticulously maintained holes, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers of all levels.​

Travel tips

  • Book Tee Times Well in Advance: Monte Rei is Portugal’s top-ranked course and extremely popular—reserve your tee slots early, especially in spring and autumn.

"Amazing Villa, amazing golf course and the staff are the best around bar none! World Class!!"

Chris (Golfbreaks customer)

Robinson Club Quinta da Ria

Location: Tavira | Golf: Quinta da Ria & Quinta da Cima | Customer rating: 4.8

Situated in Tavira, within stunning countryside setting on the edge of the Ria Formosa lagoon, Robinson Club Quinta da Ria is the perfect option for an all-inclusive golf trip. The resort is home to 285 excellent guest rooms, a selection of restaurants and bars, a spa, and extensive activities including tennis, football, volleyball, and biking – which is perfect for the lagoon.

Robinson Club & Quinta da Ria Golf Course

Golf courses

Quinta da Ria Celebrated for its picturesque setting, Quinta da Ria offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the historic Cacela Velha Beach. The course features a relatively flat terrain, making it accessible to golfers of all skill levels.

Quinta da Cima Often referred to as the "championship course," Quinta de Cima presents a more demanding layout, suitable for experienced golfers seeking a rigorous test. The course is characterized by its rolling terrain dotted with almond trees, open fairways, and well-placed bunkers.

Travel tips

  • March to May and September to early November offer ideal playing conditions—mild temperatures and fewer crowds than peak summer.

"Great place for a golf break. Two lovely courses in first-rate condition. food is very good as is range of included drinks."*

Alex (Golfbreaks customer)

Penha Longa Resort

Location: Lisbon | Golf: Atlantic Championship, North & South Courses | Customer rating: 4.7

Just 25km from Lisbon and set in the stunning National Park of the Sinatra Mountains, Penha Longa is situated within 545-acres of stunning Cascais landscape.

The suites offer panoramic views of the Sinatra Mountains with the Penha Longa Spa just a stone’s throw from the main hotel building. Equipped with numerous treatment rooms, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa pool and a jacuzzi, you will be very well looked after during your stay.

And if all that wasn’t enough, Penha Longa boasts not one, but two Michelin Star restaurants – Lab & Midori – both worth checking out during your visit!

Penha Longa Resort

Golf courses

Atlantic Championship Course Set amongst the picturesque Sintra mountains with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and ocean, the Atlantic Championship Course utilizes the steep, sloping terrain. Six holes dip into the valley, with the remaining holes playing on the hills. Having held the Portuguese Open three times and the Estoril Open in 1999, it is easy to see why the Championship Course is ranked as one of the top five courses in Portugal.

Atlantic South & North Courses Both the South and North courses blend the front and back 9 of the Atlantic Championship Course with the former Monastery Course. Set against the backdrop of Sintra’s hills and surrounded by lakes, these courses offer a varied and scenic layout, perfect for golfers seeking a memorable round in Portugal.

Travel tip

  • Enjoy the scenery: The courses run through a UNESCO-protected natural park—take a moment to enjoy views of forests, hills, and historic buildings.

"The facilities are fantastic and the rooms are very big. Golf course was in great condition for October."

Mohit Kotecha (Golfbreaks customer)

Victoria Golf Resort & Spa

Location: Vilamoura | Golf: Vilamoura Golf | Customer: 4.7

Situated just 10 minutes from the popular resort town of Vilamoura, the Victoria Golf Resort & Spa is an exceptional five-star hotel with impeccable service and accommodation. Guests can indulge in a selection of gourmet dining options, experience world-class spa treatments, and enjoy exclusive beach access.

Free shuttle services are available from the resort to Laguna and Millennium golf courses make it extremely convenient for guests to play local courses.

Victoria Golf Resort & Spa

Golf courses

Victoria Course The hotel is nestled against the beautiful backdrop of the Dom Pedro Victoria Course, a timeless Arnold Palmer design and annual host to the Portugal Masters. This has one of the best back 9s in Portugal with some great risk and rewards holes which are perfect for match play.

Millennium & Laguna Courses Golf fans will also enjoy the hotel’s close proximity to the Millennium Golf Course and Laguna Golf Course, which are both within walking distance. Both courses share a clubhouse equipped with a pro shop, restaurant, bar and practice facilities.

Guests also have access to all of the courses in the Vilamoura Golf collection.

Travel tips

  • Stay nearby: Victoria Golf Resort & Spa is just minutes away and offers a complimentary shuttle to the courses.

"Great staff. Super position in relation to the Victoria golf course. Good pool area. Good breakfast."

Jake (Golfbreaks customer)

Quinta do Lago Golf

Location: Faro | Golf: Quinta do Lago Golf | Customer rating: 4.7

Located just 20 minutes from Faro Airport, nearby Vale do Lobo, Quinta do Lago is a vibrant resort town that attracts golfers from all over the world It boasts private villas, first-class hotels, lively bars and restaurants, and three outstanding golf courses set against the scenic Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Accommodation options in this expansive resort town vary, but highlights include, The Conrad, The Magnolia, a stylish Miami-style boutique hotel, and Hotel Quinta do Lago, a prestigious five-star property with a private beach and easy access to local golf courses. Both hotels ensure a memorable stay with excellent services, including a shuttle to the golf courses.

The Magnolia Hotel

Golf courses

Quinta South The South Course is the crown jewel of Quinta do Lago and a former host of the Portuguese Open. Known for its tree-lined fairways, elevated greens, and strategically placed bunkers, it requires accuracy and intelligent shot selection.

Quinta North The North Course offers a more modern, player-friendly design. Featuring wider fairways, faster greens, and more forgiving rough, it's a great course for mid-handicappers while still posing a challenge with cleverly designed doglegs, elevation changes, and numerous bunkers.

Laranjal Course Originally an orange grove, Laranjal is known for its vibrant, undulating fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and five beautiful lakes. It’s the most secluded and peaceful of the three, offering a different style of play with tighter fairways and slick greens.

Travel tips Beyond golf, the town offers plenty to explore, from top dining options like Bovino Steakhouse and Casa do Lago seafood restaurant to leisure activities at Quinta Shopping Centre and nearby beaches. Don’t miss exploring the charm of Faro's old town or the lively Vilamoura marina, which is a town thriving with golfers.

"Excellent hotel located within a short walk to the beach or nature reserve lake but with its own secluded pool area. Service was second to none and the cleanliness of the hotel and rooms was impeccable. Golf transfers were very efficient with a friendly smile and clubs all loaded on and off with pick ups on request."

Paul (Golfbreaks customer)

Vidago Palace Resort

Location: Porto | Golf: Vidago Palace Golf Course | Customer rating: 4.7

Nestled in the north of Portugal, outside of Porto, Vidago Palace Resort is a sanctuary of serenity and history that dates to 1910, the year of the First Portuguese Republic. King D. Carlos produced a luxury therapeutic resort and manor house that would reach across borders, set within peaceful grounds of mountains and forest. The whole resort, from the food and spa to the guest rooms in first-class, with an excellent on-site course full of variety that makes full use of the nature.

With well-placed and strategic bunkers combined with elevated tees and greens, this Philip Mackenzie Ross design provides stunning views across the local countryside, though requires your full attention and pin point accuracy.

Vidago Palace Resort

Golf courses

Vidago Palace Golf Course Nestled within the lush Vidago Thermal Park, the Vidago Palace Golf Course offers a blend of historical charm and modern golfing excellence. Originally designed in 1936 by the renowned architect Mackenzie Ross, the course underwent a comprehensive redesign by Cameron & Powell, transforming it into an 18-hole, par-72 championship layout that adheres to USGA specifications

Travel tips

  • Bring layers: Even in warmer months, mornings and evenings in Northern Portugal can be cool, especially on the elevated holes.

"Vidago palace is an amazing resort, not far from Porto by car it is in an idyllic setting amongst the hills near the small village of Vidago. The main hotel building is stunning and has a definite wow factor, the facilities like the spa, sauna and vitality pool are top class also. The buffet Breakfast each morning was incredible, a very good selection of different options prepared to a high standard. Staff were friendly and helpful also and spoke good English, certainly better than my Portuguese."

Emiel (Golfbreaks customer)

Praia D'El Rey Resort

Location: Obidos | Golf: West Cliffs & Praia D'El Rey | Customer rating: 4.6

Nestled along Portugal’s unspoiled Silver Coast, Praia D’El Rey offers a stunning blend of seaside luxury and championship golf. The resort features a highly acclaimed 18-hole course designed by Cabell B. Robinson, known for its dramatic links-style holes with sweeping Atlantic views. Guests can enjoy a range of luxury accomodation options, from five-star hotel rooms at the Marriott to self-catering townhouses and villas.

Alongside this, the resort is equipped with excellent dining, a spa, and easy access to the charming medieval town of Obidos. For those wanting to expore the exceptional golf, there are free shuttles to the courses when staying on-site. This is perfect for those who want maximum convenience whilst on their break, and ideal for those who have visited one of Praia d’El Rey’s on-site restaurants or bars the night before!

Praia D'El Rey Resort

Golf courses

Praia D'El Rey Golf Course The Praia d’El Rey Golf Course itself is amongst the best in Europe with a front 9 set among an extensive pine forest and a contrasting ocean-side back 9 with undulating dunes and fantastic views over the Atlantic.

West Cliffs Golf Links The Cynthia Dye design at West Cliffs is fast becoming one of Portugal’s most in-demand courses and features spectacular views throughout. Ranked the no.3 golf course in Portugal by Top 100 Golf Courses, this is a must-play during your stay.

Travel tips

  • Book in advance - due to the resort's popularity, we always recommend booking as early as possible to avoid any disappointment!

"Top class resort only an hour's drive from Lisbon with stunning scenery, great accommodation, delicious food, world class golf courses and a relaxing spa."

David Prescott (Golfbreaks customer)

Amendoeira Golf Resort

Location: Silves | Golf: Faldo & O'Connor Jnr. Courses | Customer rating: 4.6

Situated in Silves, Algarve, and hidden away amongst the Monchique Mountains, Amendoeira is the ideal resort, with everything you need on-site including two championship golf courses. The on-site villas are all self-catering, however, there a number of meal options for those who are keen to spend as much time as possible on course, with a welcome food pack also available upon arrival where requested.

If you do want to venture away from the golf courses, you’ll find boat trips, dolphin watching, fishing, surfing, scuba diving and an array of water sports all within close proximity for those keen to get out onto the Mediterranean Sea. Prefer to stay on land? Why not try your hand at some of the other activities available, including; hiking, cycling, flying, paintballing, clay pigeon shooting and horse riding.

Amendoeira Golf Resort

Golf courses

Faldo Course Designed by Sir Nick Faldo, the Faldo Course is the headline course at Amendoeira. It features strategic bunkering, desert-like landscaping, and elevation changes that demand precision and course management. Regularly ranked among the Top 20 golf courses in Portugal, the course is a true test for serious golfers and has hosted professional tournaments.

O'Connor Jnr. Course Created by Christy O’Connor Jnr., the O'Connor Jnr. Course offers a more forgiving but equally scenic experience. Set in a fertile valley with lakes and palm-lined fairways, it contrasts beautifully with the Faldo Course.

Travel Tips

  • Unique highlights: Amendoiera offers a nine-hole floodlit course, allowing guests to enjoy a round of golf after sunset. As the only floodlit course in Portugal, this is a mustplay during your stay.

"Excellent facilities and accommodation the par 3 course was great and also the facilities for non golfers was superb. Golf courses were in good condition."

John McDonald (Golfbreaks customer)

Vale do Lobo Resort

Location: Faro | Golf: Royal & Ocean Courses | Customer rating: 4.5

If you’re looking for golf, beach and spa in one place, Vale do Lobo is tough to beat!

The resort itself has a huge array of one and two-bedroom apartments to choose from , a well-equipped tennis centre and a stunning wellness centre – with spa, and a fitness club all on-site. Besides the beach, in the heart of the resort, you’ll find the Praça - a cosmopolitan mix of shops, bars and restaurants, and the ideal place to unwind after your round.

Vale do Lobo Resort

Golf courses

The Royal As the flagship layout at Vale do Lobo, the Royal Course is famous for its stunning cliff-top holes and breathtaking ocean views. Its dramatic 16th hole, a par 3 over a ravine with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop, is one of the most photographed golf holes in Europe. It is often ranked among the top courses in Portugal and is home to several prestigious tournaments.

The Ocean A more relaxed but equally scenic golfing experience, the Ocean Course offers stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean. Designed by the legendary Sir Henry Cotton, it provides a more traditional feel, with a combination of open fairways and challenging water features.

Travel tips

  • Get There Early: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your tee time to take full advantage of the excellent practice facilities, including the driving range, putting green, and short game area.

"Beautiful place. Staff very helpful and friendly. Apartment was huge and very well maintained. Golf courses were fantastic. Ocean course was our favourite."

Tony Teagle (Golfbreaks customer)

Dona Filipa & San Lorenzo

Location: Faro | Golf: San Lorenzo Golf | Customer rating: 4.4

Just down the road from Quinta do Lago sits Dona Filipa Hotel & San Lorenzo Golf Course. This is another excellent five-star resort with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the picturesque Algarve coastline.

The hotel combines traditional Portuguese elegance across its 154 rooms, from classic twins to luxurious suites, exceptional service, and a choice of four dining and drinking venues. Enjoy fine dining at Kamal or gourmet delights at Dom Duarte and relax with a casual drink at Duques Lounge Bar or The Pool Bar, overlooking the swimming pool.

Dona Filipa Hotel

Golf courses

San Lorenzo Nestled within the Ria Formosa Estuary and Nature Reserve, San Lorenzo Golf Course offers breathtaking views, challenging fairways lined with the region’s iconic umbrella pines, and lakes. There is a great mix of holes cemented most by holes 5, 6 and 7, which play along the Ria Formosa estuary.

Travel tips

  • Check Shuttle Schedules: A complimentary shuttle runs between Dona Filipa Hotel and San Lorenzo Golf Course, departing from the hotel's main entrance at specific times. Be at the pickup point early, as seats are limited and cannot be reserved in advance.

"Fantastic hotel and beautiful golf course with some iconic holes."

Chris Wright (Golfbreaks customer)

Pestana Vila Sol

Location: Vilamoura | Golf: Vila Sol Golf Course & Golf Vilamoura | Customer rating: 4.3

Located close to the action around Vilamoura harbour, Pestana Vila Sol is a five-star resort which blends perfectly into the environment. With 140 rooms on-site, as well as 45 Garden Suites, you’re not short of accommodation options – although each room in the main hotel does come with its own balcony.

The hotel boasts a fabulous restaurant, Green Pines, which offers international cuisine throughout the day. Also within the resort is Bar Prime, the ideal spot for kicking back after a morning on the golf course. The top-of-the-range leisure facilities, tennis courts and outdoor heated pool means that there is no urge to leave the resort – making for the perfect stay & play Portuguese golf resort.

Pestana Vila Sol

Golf courses

Pestana Vila Sol Golf Course The resort boasts a 27-hole championship course designed by Donald Steel, offering lush fairways framed by pine trees and water hazards that challenge players of all levels.

Vilamoura golf The Vilamoura Golf scene features five unique golf courses in the heart of the Algarve and just a short drive away from the Pestana Vila Sol resort. Both Victoria and Old Course ranked within the top 20 courses in Portugal.

Travel tips

  • Prepare for the Algarve sun, especially through the summer months. Spring and autumn offer ideal playing conditions so plan ahead for your Algarve golf trip!

"All staff were friendly & professional. Equipment hire (buggies & clubs) were in excellent condition. We will be back!"

Alistair Mitchell (Golfbreaks customer)

Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort

Location: Lisbon | Golf: Royal Obidos Golf Course | Customer rating: 4.3

The Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort in Lisbon offers an exquisite blend of luxury, leisure, and landscape nestled on the scenic Silver Coast, 10 minutes from Praia D’El Rey.

Accommodation at the Royal Óbidos Spa & Golf Resort is excellent, with 36 rooms with balconies overlooking the golf course or coastline. The on-site hotel is perfect for some R&R time following a round of golf where guests can engage in exclusive treatments, an indoor heated pool, steam room, and Finnish sauna. Add to this some excellent restaurants and bars for a fantastic all-encompassing golf resort!

Royal Óbidos Golf Club

Golf courses

Royal Obidos Golf Course The resort features a stunning 18-hole championship golf layout designed by the legendary Seve Ballesteros. The course offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Obidos Lagoon on half of the holes, with some testing doglegs that makes for a challenging round.

Travel tips

  • Explore other local golf courses including the renowned Praia D'El Rey and West Cliffs courses.

"Played 3 excellent courses (Royal Obidos, Praia del Rey and West Cliffs). Hotel staff were great all the way through, and the value of the golf/Hotel was great! We're already planning our return."

Barry (Golfbreaks customer)

Feeling inspired?
Wake up on the doorstep of some of Portugal's best golf courses at these outstanding resorts.

Published

Matt Beahan avatar
Matt Beahan

Senior European Travel Consultant

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