Located just under an hour from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon lies a golf resort which is considered to be one of the finest in Europe, and rightly so. With a golf course which skirts the picturesque Silver Coast, Praia D’El Rey has made its mark on the European golf scene with a course which will challenge all who play it.
This challenging championship course, at Praia D’EL Rey, was opened in 1997 after it was designed by the well respected American golf course architect Cabell B. Robinson who is responsible for the magnificent Aphrodite Hills, in Cyprus, and all three courses at La Cala, in Malaga. Since its opening Praia D’EL Rey has developed into one of the most established resorts in the area, it also started the golf explosion in and around Lisbon – drawing attention away from the Algarve.
The 8th is a superb par-3 which requires an accurate approach over a large lake to a green protected by bunkers at the back.
The course, which is a mixture of seaside links and parkland holes, is made up of two wonderful loops of nine, has a par of 73 and stretches to an impressive 7,245 yards from the championship tees. After having just viewed the site for the course, Robinson humbly said, “This is the kind of landscape we architects try to create, but at Praia D’EL Rey it’s all here naturally. Now it’s my responsibility to protect it.”
With similarities to the terrific layout at Oitavos, further south down the coast, Praia D’EL Rey blends memorable holes which meander through verdant vegetation with a number of holes which hug the coastline and include natural sand dunes and links style tests whilst at the same time offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Berlenga Islands.
Many of the holes have provide stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Baerlengas Isalnds.
Most of the holes are peppered with huge sand-traps and strategically designed and positioned greens, so golfers taking on this challenge will be required to think seriously from the tee all the way through to the green.
Opening holes on this championship course start gently uphill and then downhill in the direction of the coast – here you will be presented with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, but try not to let this distract you from your game.
The first hole on the back nine is an excellent par-5 which measures just over 500 yards, but the length isn’t what you should be worrying about – it has a challenging green which is protected by a cavernous sand-trap to the left and a vast water hazard on the right, so walking off the green with a par will make any golfer happy. From here the holes continue to get better and better – with each hole as worthy as the next.
The 13th hole along the coast is simply breathtaking.
The signature holes have got to be 13, 14 and 15 – a trio of world-class golf holes which border the Atlantic coastline, offering views of the sea, imposing dunes and back towards the pine forest. A special mention has to go out to the monstrous 17th, a beast of a par 5 which stretches to over 620 yards, requiring a trio of quality shots to reach the green in three.
Golf World Magazine has famously described Praia D’EL Rey as “A mix of holes – some in the mighty dunes, others among fragrant pines – that are an assault to the senses. Wild and wonderful.”
Away from the golf, you may be wandering where you can stay should you choose to tackle the epic golf course at Praia D’EL Rey. Well there are a few different options for you – which aim to cover the requirements of any golf group heading to the area looking for an unforgettable golf holiday.
Firstly we have the 5* Marriott Hotel – nestled right in the heart of the Praia D’EL Rey resort, it is designed for golfers who are looking for luxurious accommodation during their stay. It boasts 177 plush guestrooms (including 11 lavish suites) all of which are complete with a personal balcony or terrace. In terms of dining options The Marriott has a great selection of restaurants, ranging from the calm Atlantico Bar and Grill to the gastronomic Romy fine dining room, so you’re sure to find something acquired to your taste.
The outstanding guestrooms at The Marriott all come well equipped with individual climate control, the finest bedding and linen, and satellite television as standard.
Praia D’EL Rey is also home to a village of stylish townhouses and apartments, all of which are decorated and furnished to the highest of standards. These self-catered accommodation are perfect for large groups and families, and means that a golf break to Praia D’EL Rey can also signify great value for money.
Brilliant accommodation and epic golf may be one thing, “but what else is there to do at the Praia D’EL Rey resort?” I hear you cry! Well the resort is also able to boast a whole range of activities and entertainment facilities to keep you busy – including a devoted tennis centre with 7 first-rate courts and a football pitch built to FIFA specifications.
A home away from home, the apartments and townhouses are complete with fully fitted kitchen, climate control, satellite television, and private balconies and terraces, while all guests benefit from shared use of the communal swimming pool.
There is also a leisure complex, located at the Marriott, boasting heated indoor and outdoor swimming pools, Jacuzzis, steam baths, Vichy shower and a comprehensively equipped fitness centre. Furthermore, the wide-ranging spa suite has an extensive list of expert treatments, including massages, aromatherapy, Thalasso therapy, facials and hydrotherapy, and is an amazing place to forget the stresses and strains of everyday life.
So next time you’re thinking of booking your annual golf holiday, forget the Algarve – head to Praia D’EL Rey! Packages start from just £175 at the self catered accommodation; this includes 4 nights and three rounds of golf! Unbelievable value for money.
Really good course, the best I’ve played in Portugal.
The course is a good layout but can be a bit shabby around the edges at time, worth a visit if in the area but not the only course you should play.