7 reasons to book a golf holiday to Lisbon

Lisbon is one of Europe’s most complete destinations for a golf holiday break, whether you want to play golf every day, experience the local culture or chill on the beach between rounds, Lisbon has it all. Read on to see just why we love it so much…

Chances are you’re reading this article because you’re interested in a golf break to Lisbon which means you’re probably wondering what the golf is like in the region… Put simply, it’s sensational! Travel 1 hour north of the city centre and you’ll find Praia D’El Rey and West Cliffs, two incredible links golf courses that will leave you wanting more. Further down the coast, in and around Cascais, is where most of Lisbon’s golf courses are located including Oitavos Dunes, Quinta da Marinha and Golf Do Estoril. Finally, a course that is not to be overlooked is Troia, south of the city centre on the thin Troia Peninsula, it really does feel like millionaires’ golf.

Something that puts Lisbon above other golf destinations is the calibre of hotels and resorts around the region. Likewise with the golf courses, you’ll find most of the hotels and resorts along the Cascais coastline offering incredible views and easy access to bars and restaurants. The Marriott Praia D’El Rey Golf & Beach Resort is one of the most luxurious complexes in the area and a stone's throw away from the sea. Plus, the fact that it has two exquisite golf courses onsite is simply icing on the cake.

Situated between Praia D’El Rey and Lisbon is another fantastic complex, Dolce CampoReal. More inland than others in the area, it has three onsite restaurants that serve classic Portuguese and international cuisine plus bars, swimming pools and spa, making it one of Portugal’s top golf resorts.

Palacio Estoril Hotel & Golf is a classic 5-star luxury hotel and as the name suggests you really do feel like living in a palace with one of Portugal’s oldest golf courses on your doorstep. It’s in the heart of the action as you’re never far from off course activities, bars or restaurants.

Situated in Cascais is the Hotel Quinta da Marinha, a modern 5-star resort with an excellent parkland golf course onsite which means you don’t have to travel far for quality golf. Plus the hotel facilities are second to none and offer you a chance to relax poolside, sip on a cocktail or two and treat yourself to a wonderful dining experience.

For those wanting the real city break experience then you can’t go wrong with Avani Avenida Liberdade Lisbon Hotel. This boutique hotel is a short transfer to plenty of the region’s best golf courses but more importantly, you are right in the heart of the city giving you a plethora of eateries to choose from and plenty of opportunity to explore this magnificent city.

Being a coastal city, Lisbon is particularly well-known for its variety of incredibly fresh seafood however, its traditional meat and vegetarian dishes are not to be passed on either. Staying in Lisbon provides a great opportunity to explore, experiment and take advantage of Portuguese gastronomy. We would highly recommend the Time Out Market. You will never experience such an excellent choice of food under one roof again! Explore wine bars, local delicacies, international foods and more, all curated by Time Out’s experienced journalists… It’s a great place to go with a group as there’s something for everyone; breakfast, lunch and dinner!

During the planning stage of your golf break to Lisbon, it is worth keeping one day or at least half a day free to explore the city and all it has to offer. An afternoon walking the beautiful and historic town of Cascais in the sun with a light breeze is about as tranquil as it comes and worth a picture or two to make all your friends and family at home jealous. Additionally, the views of Lisbon when exploring the Castelo de Sao Jorge are truly magnificent. High above the city centre look down on the beautiful red roofs, one of Lisbon’s defining characteristics.

One of Portugal’s greatest exports to the world. This small, sweet treat is an absolute must when visiting Lisbon and luckily they’re not hard to come across. Walk into any café and you’ll find the famous custard tarts that go perfectly with a coffee or tea. One of the best places to enjoy this local delicacy is Pasteis de Belem situated in western Lisbon, it has been around since the 19th century and has stuck to the original recipe all those years ago. The only problem you’ll have is stopping at one!

Lisbon can be considered as a year-round golf destination and we stand by it. Averaging no more than 10 days of rain in the winter months and even fewer throughout spring and summer you can travel anytime. Extend your season during the winter when you’ll have your pick of the tee times at lower rates and all you’ll need is a light jacket or jumper for the cooler evenings. Spring and autumn are typically the most popular travel months due to the idyllic playing conditions so, if you’re wanting to travel then, it is recommended to book in advance!

Many of the hotels and resorts will have incredible bars onsite or nearby which will provide plenty of entertainment for the evening or simply a nice place to enjoy an evening cocktail however, if you’re in the city centre and want something a little more lively, you will inevitably find Pink Street. It can’t be missed as the street is literally painted bright pink and it’s here where memories and stories will be made!