Vale do Lobo Royal Course 16th Hole

The Legendary Par Three 16th at Vale do Lobo

Nestled within the stunning Algarve landscape the Royal Course at Vale do Lobo boasts numerous memorable holes. Yet none capture the imagination quite like the sixteenth, one of the best par 3's in the World.

Perched precariously atop dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean this hole isn't just a test of golfing skill it's a breathtaking encounter with nature and a stage for unforgettable moments in professional golf.

Its beauty and challenge have cemented its reputation as one of the most famous and photographed holes in the sport.

A Masterpiece of Golf Design

Our Golf Experts Opinions

❝Don't miss left! It can get windy there so good to practice your knockdown shots before you play here.❞
Alex

❝One of the most memorable tee shots in golf. This long par-3 is a true test, often requiring a long iron or wood. I've found both the green and the beach, with anything left ending up in the Atlantic. A great, make-or-break hole and possibly the most photographed par-3 in Europe.❞
Oliver

❝Aim for the right and short chip will get you on.❞
Ian

Conquering the Cliffside: How to Play the Sixteenth

How to play Vale do Lobo Royal course 16th Hole

Playing the 16th at Vale do Lobo requires more than just power it demands precision strategy and a strong mental game.

Club Selection
You couldn't be closer to the Atlantic so wind is always going to be important here. The tee is in an elevated position so can really whip in from the left meaning being brave and hitting it out left towards the beach can result in a better result but brings with it a lot of risk. Anything left is gone but there is a big bail out area to the right if you want to play short and safe.

Aim & Execution
The green is a small target given the distance off the back tee. If you are confident and playing well anything left half of the green is the risky line but if you haven't been having the best of rounds, play safe to the right of the green and try your best to get up and down for a memorable par 3.

Mental Approach
Be confident in your club selection and shot. There is no room here for anything but 100% commitment or you'll stand a very good chance of ruining your round.

Additional Tips
If you are playing a close match, remember a par will win this hole 90% of the time, a bogey will as well! Play short and right of the green and back your chipping to make par, anything left is on the beach so take your medicine and hopefully come away with a win at a crucial part of your round.

Golf Courses to pair up with VDL

As part of your golf holiday to the Vale do Lobo area, you'll discover a fantastic selection of top-tier golf courses just a short drive away, each offering a unique and memorable experience. Golfers seeking a course consistently ranked among Europe's best will find San Lorenzo Golf Course a must-play. Situated within the stunning Ria Formosa nature reserve, this Joseph Lee-designed course blends superb golf with breathtaking natural beauty. The iconic par 4 6th hole, where you tee off towards the ocean, exemplifies why this course has hosted the Portuguese Open seven times.

For a different style of play, consider Ombria Golf Course, an 18-hole par 71 creation by Jorge Santana da Silva. Embracing a sustainable ethos, Ombria seamlessly integrates with the Algarve landscape. The front nine meanders through picturesque hillside banks offering a pleasant walk while the back nine unfolds across a serene river valley providing stunning panoramic views. This course offers a diverse challenge in a beautiful setting.

Another excellent option is the Quinta do Lago North Course. This course boasts a reputation as one of the world's premier golfing destinations and is part of the esteemed Quinta do Lago Resort. Redesigned in 2014, it offers a challenge for golfers of all abilities. The visually striking and demanding 12th hole, a dogleg around a lake with a tricky approach, is a highlight of this exceptional course. With such high-quality options nearby, your golf holiday in Vale do Lobo is sure to be unforgettable.

Quinta do Lago North Course Quinta do Lago

Rated 8.8 by 295 golfers

Flights, 4 Nights, 3 Rounds
4 Nights Bed and Breakfast at The Magnolia Hotel
1 Round at Quinta do Lago Laranjal Course
1 Round at Quinta do Lago South Course
1 Round at Quinta do Lago North Course

Ombria Algarve Vilamoura

Rated 8.8 by 154 golfers

Flights, 3 Nights, 2 Rounds
3 Nights Bed and Breakfast at The Magnolia Hotel
1 Round at Quinta do Lago Laranjal Course
1 Round at Ombria Golf Course

San Lorenzo Golf Course Faro

Rated 8.0 by 360 golfers

Bookable Online

Free Places for Groups

Flights, 3 Nights, 2 Rounds
3 Nights Bed and Breakfast at Dona Filipa Hotel
1 Round at San Lorenzo Golf Course
1 Round at Ocean Course, Vale do Lobo

More About Ian

Handicap: 1
Favourite Course: Valderrama
My 'Expert' areas: Portugal, Spain, France & Turkey
Best trip I've done: Valderrama, Finca Cortesin & Real Club de Sotogrande
Where my next trip is to: La Manga

Give Ian a call on 0800 043 6644 to arrange your next golf break.

Ian Purvis

European Golf Expert

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