Best Algarve golf courses: A golfer’s guide to Portugal’s premier fairways
The Algarve has long been Europe’s premier golfing destination, and for good reason. With over 30 golf courses stretching from Lagos to Vila Real de Santo António, this sun-soaked region in southern Portugal blends spectacular coastal scenery with world-class course design.
Whether you’re planning your next golf holiday or simply looking for the best golf in Algarve, this guide brings together the top Algarve golf courses—each handpicked for their playability, design pedigree, and player reviews. So grab your clubs and let’s tee off in paradise.
Why play golf in the Algarve?
300+ days of sunshine annually
Courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer & Sir Nick Faldo
Direct flights from major UK, Dutch, and French airports
Luxury resorts, seaside towns, and incredible gastronomy
Excellent value for money (especially off-peak)
Whether you're a scratch player or a casual holiday golfer, the Algarve offers unforgettable experiences across its best golf courses.
Top 10 Algarve golf courses to play in 2025
1. Monte Rei Golf & Country Club (Jack Nicklaus Signature) – Eastern Algarve
Location: Vila Nova de Cacela
Style: Championship parkland
Why Play: Frequently topping the top 100 golf courses Algarve rankings, Monte Rei offers immaculate conditioning, elevated tees, and world-class service. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this is best-in-class Algarve golf for serious players.
2. Quinta do Lago South Course – Central Algarve
Location: Almancil
Style: Championship parkland
Why Play: A frequent host of the Portuguese Open, the South Course is a favourite among European golfers for its strategic layout and lush fairways. Part of the prestigious Quinta do Lago resort.
3. Dom Pedro Old Course – Vilamoura
Location: Vilamoura
Style: Pine tree-lined classic
Why Play: Often called the “Grand Dame” of Algarve golf, the Old Course boasts a timeless layout that rewards accuracy over brute strength. A must for golf purists.
4. Vale do Lobo Royal Course – Central Algarve
Location: Vale do Lobo
Style: Cliffside parkland
Why Play: Home to one of the most photographed holes in Europe (the iconic par-3 16th), this course offers drama, beauty, and luxury on every tee.
5. Amendoeira Faldo Course – Silves
Location: Alcantarilha
Style: Modern championship
Why Play: Designed by Sir Nick Faldo, this course is both scenic and strategic. Expect elevated tees, water features, and rugged bunkering.
6. Palmares Golf – Lagos
Location: Meia Praia, Lagos
Style: Links-parkland hybrid
Why Play: With stunning Atlantic views and holes weaving through dunes and hills, Palmares Ocean Living golf offers variety and one of the most scenic rounds in the Algarve.
7. Penina Championship Course – Western Algarve
Location: Portimão
Style: Classic parkland
Why Play: Designed by Sir Henry Cotton, Penina is rich in tradition and history—host to numerous Portuguese Opens and still a firm favourite for returning golfers.
8. San Lorenzo Golf Course – Quinta do Lago
Location: Almancil
Style: Coastal parkland
Why Play: A regular feature in the top golf courses Algarve rankings, San Lorenzo offers challenging play with views over the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
9. Espiche Golf – Lagos
Location: Near Luz, Lagos
Style: Eco-friendly hillside
Why Play: A hidden gem, Espiche golf blends sustainability with a tight, technical layout that demands course management. Affordable and uncrowded.
10. Dom Pedro Victoria – Vilamoura
Location: Vilamoura
Style: PGA championship
Why Play: Host of the Portugal Masters, this Arnold Palmer design caters to those wanting a true tour-level experience. Long, open, and always in great condition.
Best golf courses in Portugal Algarve – For every kind of player
How to book tee times at the best Algarve golf courses
At TeeTimesBooking.com, we make it easy to reserve your spot at any of the top golf courses Algarve has to offer. Our platform offers:
Instant confirmation
Real-time availability
Exclusive green fee deals
Golf holiday packages with hotel + tee times
Booking early is highly recommended, especially between March and June, and again from September to November—peak seasons for golf in the Algarve.
Plan your Algarve golf holiday with confidence
With over three decades of course development, Portugal’s southern coast has matured into a true golfing paradise. Whether you're ticking off your bucket list or revisiting old favourites, the best courses in Algarve combine memorable play with unbeatable surroundings.
From Monte Rei’s world-class service to Vilamoura’s golf resort buzz, there’s a reason so many golfers return year after year. Discover, play, and fall in love with the Algarve—one round at a time.
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