Built between 2 valleys close to the town of Portimao, Alto was the brainchild of Sir Henry Cotton and was designed to his philosophy that a course should constitute a good test not only for the low handicaper but also provide an enjoyable round for the less blessed players.

A simple par 3 1st hole lures players into a false sense of security as to what is in store later in the round with stratigic bunkers, tree lined fairways and a number of dog-legs.  A feature of Alto is the  undulating and elevated greens calling for precise approach shots to leave the ball on the right side of the hole.  The front nine offers the players excellent views over Lagos Bay with the back nine winding through gentle slopping fairways.  The par 5 16th hole measuring 604metres is one of the longest golf holes in Europe.