The Clubhouse

Best golf resorts in Portugal

Adam Ward
Adam Ward
7 mins read
Portugal has long been recognized as a premier destination for golf vacations, earning its reputation as one of the top choices in our portfolio. Discover the very best stay-and-play options available.
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With an abundance of courses and fantastic year-round weather, golf vacations in Portugal have long been a favorite for our customers over the past 25 years.

Whether you’re looking to head down to the golfing mecca of the Algarve, or explore the country’s capital, Lisbon, Portugal provides a sensational golf vacation 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! Based on customer ratings, we’ve ordered the resorts below - starting with the highest rated.

1. Palmares Ocean Living & Golf Resort

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

With two modern accommodation options and 27-holes Robert Trent Jones Jr design, 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 varied 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.

Key features

  • Set on a hillside above Meia Praia beach, the course overlooks the Bay of Lagos, Alvor estuary, and Ponta da Piedade cliffs.
  • Redesigned by Robert Trent Jones Jr., with undulating fairways, elevated tees, and firm, fast conditions reminiscent of traditional links.
  • The Alvor, Lagos, and Praia loops offer a dynamic mix of parkland, dunes, and links-style golf, with flexible routing and ocean views throughout.
  • Palmares Ocean Living & Golf has received multiple awards, including Europe's Best Golf Clubhouse at the World Golf Awards 2024 and a National Real Estate Award for its clubhouse in the Tourism category.

Travel tips Palmares is located in the western Algarve, just outside Lagos and around 1 hour from Faro Airport. Hiring a car is highly recommended to take full advantage of the resort’s coastal location and explore nearby beaches, villages, and restaurants.

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.

"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

2. Monte Rei Golf Resort

Location: Tavira, Algarve | Golf: Monte Rei Golf Course | Customer rating: 4.8

Arguably the country's most desirable golf resort, Monte Rei exudes five luxury. 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.

Key features

  • Monte Rei has been awarded "Best Golf Course in Portugal" multiple times, including in 2020 and 2025, at the World Golf Awards
  • At the Leading Courses Awards in 2022, Monte Rei won six out of eight eligible categories, including Best Course, Best Maintained, Best 18 Hole Golf Course, Best Facilities, Most Hospitable, and Best Restaurant.

Travel tips Monte Rei Villas are located in the peaceful Eastern Algarve, just 50 minutes from Faro Airport and about 15 minutes from the Spanish border. Hiring a car is highly recommended - the resort’s secluded setting is part of its charm, and having a car allows for beach trips, town visits, and easy access to nearby restaurants.

Monte Rei Villas

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 don't need to worry 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 vacation to Monte Rei.

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

3. Robinson Club Quinta da Ria

Location: Tavira, Algarve | 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 vacation. 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

Golfers can take full advantage of two excellent courses, Quinta da Ria which is located on-site and Quinta da Cima, which is next door. The former provides stunning views of the ocean and mountains, and five purpose-built lakes around the golf course. The latter is a beautiful and challenging parkland that makes great use of the many lakes, trees and streams.

Key features

  • The resort is located between the Quinta da Ria and Quinta de Cima golf courses - both offering peaceful, parkland layouts and natural beauty.
  • Surrounded by the Ria Formosa Natural Park, with protected wetlands, ocean breeze, and abundant birdlife.
  • Set in the unspoilt Eastern Algarve, Robinson Club offers a stylish, all-inclusive experience with sea views and direct golf access.

Travel tips When you’re off the course, the all-inclusive offering means you can relax and enjoy without reaching for your wallet. The resort has plenty of lounging areas, wellness facilities, and group activities, and the nearby beach is accessible via a tranquil 10-minute walk through the dunes.

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

4. Penha Longa Resort

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

Just 15 miles from Lisbon and set in the stunning National Park of the Sinatra Mountains, Penha Longa is situated within 545-acres of stunning Cascais landscape. There’s a variety of golf courses here, with The Atlantic Championship Course lending it’s front and back nine to the North and South Courses respectively to complete 3 separate 18-hole loops.

Key features

  • Host of multiple Portuguese Opens and international events- a true tour-level challenge in a stunning setting.
  • Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this parkland-style course weaves through the Sintra Mountains with elevated tees, lakes, and panoramic views.
  • The resort is set on a former 14th-century monastery estate, blending luxury with heritage.
  • The Atlantic Championship Course is consistently ranked among the top 30 courses in Continental Europe. It is also considered one of the top 10 courses in Portugal.

Travel tips Off the course, there’s no shortage of luxury: unwind at the Ritz-Carlton Spa, enjoy a tasting menu at LAB, or take a short drive to explore Sintra’s castles and palaces. You’re also just 15 minutes from Cascais and the beaches of Estoril, making it easy to combine golf with sightseeing or coastal downtime.

Penha Longa Resort

Away from the courses, 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!

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

5. Victoria Golf Resort

Location: Vilamoura, Algarve | Golf: Vilamoura Golf | Customer: 4.7

Situated just 10 minutes from the popular resort town of Vilamoura, the Victoria Golf Resort 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.

Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort & the 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 matchplay. Golf fans will also enjoy the hotel’s close proximity to the Millenium Golf Course and Laguna Golf Course, which are both within walking distance.

Key features

  • Direct views of the former Portugal Masters host venue, with exclusive access and golf concierge services.
  • Contemporary, stylish, and spacious — offering world-class service and elegant design throughout.
  • Choose from deluxe rooms, suites, and penthouses, many with private terraces and pool or fairway views.
  • The resort's spa has been honored, winning Portugal's Best Resort Spa in 2018 and 2024 from the World Spa Awards.

Travel tips The Victoria Golf Resort is ideally located just 25 minutes from Faro Airport, right next to the renowned Dom Pedro Victoria Golf Course, making it one of the Algarve’s premier bases for a golf vacation with a touch of indulgence.

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

6. Quinta do Lago Golf

Location: Faro, Algarve | 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 Algarve, a modern 5-star 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.

South Course, Quinta do Lago Golf

The Quinta South, Quinta North, and Quinta Laranjal are renowned for their integration with nature and their excellent playing conditions year-round. Each course consists of umbrella pine-lined fairways and large sloping greens in the Ria Formosa Reserve.

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.

Key features

  • Home to the South, North, and Laranjal Courses, each offering a distinct playing experience and exceptional conditioning.
  • The South Course has hosted the Portuguese Open multiple times and is widely considered one of the best courses in Portugal.
  • The North Course was redesigned by Paul McGinley — fun, modern, and player-friendly with generous fairways and slick greens.
  • The Laranjal Course is set in a former orange grove, this inland gem offers undulating terrain, lakes, and a peaceful, natural setting.

Travel tips We recommend morning tee times for optimal conditions, especially in summer. Buggies are available (and often included), though the courses are also walkable in cooler seasons.

The Magnolia Hotel pool

"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

7. Amendoeira Golf Resort

Location: Silves, Algarve | 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. We love the two 18-hole courses here, The Faldo and The O’Connor Jnr.

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.

Key features

  • Strategic and dramatic desert-style layout with elevated tees, bunkering, and wide fairways - former host of the PGA EuroPro Tour Championship
  • Lush, valley-based design featuring water hazards on most holes, favouring smart shot placement and solid course management
  • Nestled in the tranquil Algarve countryside, surrounded by orange groves and rolling hills near Alcantarilha
  • The Faldo Course was named Portugal's Best Golf Course at the World Golf Awards in 2016

Travel tips Off the course, take a short drive to the nearby coastline for beach days or seafood dinners in Armação de Pêra. The resort is also within reach of Silves Castle, water parks, and scenic inland hiking trails if you’re mixing golf with leisure.

Amendoeira Golf Resort

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.

"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

8. Praia D'El Rey Resort

Location: Obidos, Lisbon | Golf: West Cliffs & Praia D'El Rey | Customer rating: 4.5

With two of Portugal’s best golf courses on-site, Praia d’el Rey is the ideal resort for the serious golfer. The Cynthia Dye design at West Cliffs is fast becoming one of Portugal’s most in-demand courses and features spectacular views throughout.

There are free shuttles to the golf courses when staying on-site, perfect for those who want maximum convenience while on their vacation, and ideal for those who have visited one of Praia d’El Rey’s on-site restaurants or bars the night before!

The resort is located in Obidos, one of the most picturesque and well preserved in Portugal, home to a medieval castle considered one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.

Key features

  • Regularly rated among the top golf resorts in continental Europe, being recognised by the Golf World magazine as the number 1 golf venue in Portugal
  • Home to European Amateur Tour events and the Praia D’El Rey European Cup
  • Sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean and Berlengas Islands, with dune-wrapped fairways and ancient forests
  • Deep pot bunkers, sloping greens, strategic entries - requires smart course management rather than brute force

Travel tips We recommend playing early in the morning, as winds tend to freshen later in the day, especially on the coastal holes. Buggies are available and advisable in high season or if you’re playing 36 holes.

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.

Coupling these two fantastic courses with a choice of accommodation which ranges from one-bedroom apartments to four-bedroom villas, and even a five-star Marriott hotel, it’s easy to see why our customers love this incredible resort so much.

"Hotel rooms, facilities and service were all superb, golf courses were excellent, transfers were easy and we can't wait to go back." ~ Allan Hill

9. Vale do Lobo Resort

Location: Faro, Algarve | 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! There are two golf courses here, The Royal and The Ocean, with one of the most iconic Par 3’s in world golf on-site too (the 13th on the Royal Course).

Key features

  • The Royal Course’s par-3 16th, with its iconic cliff-top carry over the Atlantic, is one of the most photographed in Europe.
  • The Royal Course is frequently ranked within the top 100 in Europe and is known for its challenging layout and the iconic 16th hole. It has hosted the Open de Portugal, achieving championship status in 2002.
  • Home to the Royal and Ocean Courses, offering dramatic cliffside holes, sea views, and beautifully maintained layouts.
  • Direct access to Vale do Lobo Beach and the Atlantic Ocean - perfect for post-round relaxation or a seaside stroll.

Travel tips Buggies are available for hire and are particularly useful on the hilly sections of the Royal Course. Practice facilities include a driving range, short-game area, putting green, and a golf academy, perfect for warming up or sharpening your game.

Vale do Lobo Resort

The resort itself has a huge array of one and two-bedroom apartments to choose from , as well as a well-equipped tennis center and a stunning wellness center – 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.

"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

10. Dona Filipa & San Lorenzo

Location: Faro, Algarve | 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

Beyond its luxurious accommodation, the resort features tennis courts, a beach club, a spa & wellness center, and the renowned San Lorenzo Golf Course. 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.

Key features

  • Just steps from the beach and walking distance to restaurants, tennis courts, and Vale do Lobo’s vibrant Praça nightlife.
  • San Lorenzo is consistently rated in Europe’s top 100, offering beautiful fairways, water-lined holes, and nature reserve views.
  • San Lorenzo is routed through the Ria Formosa Natural Park, with ocean breezes, umbrella pines, and birdlife all around.

Travel tips Dona Filipa Hotel is located in Vale do Lobo, just 20 minutes from Faro Airport, making it one of the most convenient bases for a luxury golf vacation in the Algarve. Whether you're arriving by taxi or hire car, you’ll be checked in and relaxing by the pool in no time.

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

11. The Oitavos & Oitavos Dunes

Location: Cascais, Lisbon | Golf: Oitavos Dunes Golf Course | Customer rating: 4.3

The Oitavos is a stunning five-star hotel overlooking Oitavos Dunes Golf Course, the former home of the European Tour’s GolfSixes event and one of the continent's leading links courses. The layout seamlessly blends into the natural landscape, overlooking the Silver Coast, with a superb out-and-back routing that has been entertaining golfers since its inception in 2010.

Off the course, The Oitavos offers a choice of bars and restaurants (including a Japanese show cooking bar!), as well as sublime gastronomic options. Most notably the Chef’s Table expertly showcases some of Portugal’s finest ingredients, all prepared by Head Chef Cyrill Devilliers.

Key features

  • Oitavos Dunes is consistently ranked among the Top 100 Courses in the World and #1 in Portugal by Golf Magazine.
  • The course is routed through the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, with minimal disturbance to the landscape and native vegetation.
  • Designed by Arthur Hills, it blends traditional links character with wide fairways, fescue grasses, and coastal winds.

Travel tips We recommend morning tee times, especially in the summer, when the winds are calmer and the conditions more forgiving. Buggies are available but not essential - the course is very walkable, and many guests enjoy taking in the coastal views on foot. The practice facilities are top-notch, with a full range, short-game area, and putting green.

The Oitavos swimming pool

"Excellent hotel - very modern in design. Our room was large with a great balcony and view over the golf course towards the sea. Staff were all excellent, with very good breakfast and dinner." ~ Dennis

12. Pestana Vila Sol

Location: Vilamoura, Algarve | Golf: Vila Sol Golf Course & Golf Vilamoura | Customer rating: 4.2

Located close to the action around Vilamoura harbour, Pestana Vila Sol is a five-star resort which blends perfectly into the environment. The 27 holes of golf on-site make up the Vila Sol Golf Course, but the venue’s central spot in Vilamoura also sees it on the shuttle route to the Dom Pedro Golf Collection at the Vilamoura Old Course, Victoria, Millennium, Laguna, and Pinhal courses – meaning that you’re not short of golfing options.

Away from the course, 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.

Key features

  • Consists of three 9-hole loops - Prime, Challenge, and Prestige - offering flexible routing and variety across rounds.
  • Former host of the Portuguese Open on the European Tour (1992 and 1993).
  • Tree-lined fairways, rolling terrain, and numerous water hazards require accurate shot-making and good course management.
  • Named Portugal's Best Golf Resort by Today's Golfer magazine

Travel tips If you're staying longer, it’s easy to pair Vila Sol with rounds at nearby Old Course, Millennium, or Pinhal - all within 15 minutes of the resort.

Pestana Vila Sol

Pestana truly is an option for all groups and 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 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.

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

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

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Adam Ward avatar
Adam Ward

Product Director

Director of Product, developing great golf packages and experiences in North America for our customers

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