Algarve Golf Holidays - Your Questions Answered

Why choose the Algarve for your golf holiday?

The Algarve is the original European golf holiday destination. For decades, golfers have been flocking to the Algarve because of its authenticity, hospitality, value for money and in more recent years, its growing selection of must-play golf courses that combine traditional and modern layouts suiting golfers of all ages and handicap ranges.

When is the best time to travel to the Algarve for a golf trip?

The honest answer is, there is no bad time! The weather in the Algarve lends itself to year-round golf. It is not uncommon during the winter months of December to February to enjoy a lot of sunshine and be playing golf in a polo shirt. The summer months of July and August are comparatively very warm but if you are playing early morning or late afternoon, you will have a pleasant round. The spring months of March to May and late summer, early Autumn months of September to November are considered peak golfing conditions in the Algarve. This is when the courses are busiest. 

What is the most popular place to golf in the Algarve?

The Central Algarve, defined as Vilamoura, Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago primarily is the main golfing destination in the Algarve. Surrounded by must-play championship courses, a bustling marina and a huge selection of hotel options to fit different budget ranges, this is the predominant golfing region within the Algarve. If looking to book the prime tee times defined as 0900-1100, it is vital to book over 6 months in advance to secure these. If a group of 16+, we advise booking almost 1 year ahead. 

Where to stay if looking for the best golf and nightlife combination?

Vilamoura offers a good selection of post-golf restaurants and bars. The resort of Albufeira however is considered the resort if you want to burn the candle at both ends. Just make sure you make your tee time the next day! 

What are your recommended golf courses in the Algarve?

Eastern Algarve has some of the finest golf courses in Europe as well as the Algarve. We recommend the following courses for a varied and fun golf itinerary:

Play Monte Rei, Quinta da Ria, Quinta de Cima and Quinta do Vale all in one amazing trip. Combine this with my staying in the all-inclusive hotels, including Robinson Club Quinta da Ria or AP Cabanas. Or choose the beach-front Praia Verde hotel for the ultimate beach and golf escape. 

One of our favourite layouts is the 27 holes at Palmares which is in the Western Algarve. With stunning views throughout and 9 holes running beside the Atlantic Ocean, it is a real treat. 

If seeking prestigious courses, look no further than Vilamoura Golf’s Old Course, Quinta do Lago North, South or Laranjal alongside the Vale do Lobo Ocean and Royal golf courses. These are truly special places to play golf in the Algarve. 

Another must-play golf course in the Algarve is Ombria Golf Club, with the luxurious Viceroy Hotel onsite.

There are countless other combinations in the Algarve but the aforementioned are amongst our most popular.

Where offers the best value for money golf experience in the Algarve?

Stay and play in one of the fabulous Pestana Hotels. Pestana owns some of the most golfer-friendly hotels across the Algarve and they also own several great golf courses including:

•    Vila Sol
•    Gramacho
•    Silves
•    Alto
•    Vale da Pinta

Pestana guests benefit from highly discounted green fees on Pestana courses. We can tailor packages at our best-selling Pestana hotels including Pestana Blue Alvor Beach, Pestana Vila Sol and Pestana Dom Joao II. 

What are the best apartment and villa style golf resorts in the Algarve?

Our recommendations include:

Monte Rei Golf Resort in the East of the Algarve effortlessly blends championship golf with luxury lifestyle living. You will play a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course with an incredible clubhouse and restaurants including a Michelin star venue. Choose to stay in the luxury clubhouse residences, which offer apartment-style living or if you prefer a villa, the linked villas are the perfect choice. 

Amendoeira Golf Resort is a terrific option if you want a pure golf break. The apartments are modern and well-appointed. Perfect for golfing groups and families. The resort features two championship golf courses alongside a par-3 floodlit golf course and great practice facilities. 

The Palmares Signature Apartments are a fantastic option. Luxurious accommodation with everything you could possibly need all within walking distance. You’ll be on the first tee in minutes and can enjoy the 5-star facilities of the resort, including a terrific clubhouse terrace and restaurant. You then have the 27-holes of Palmares on your doorstep!