Golf Holidays in the Algarve

The Algarve, a sun-kissed paradise in Portugal, is a golfer's dream, boasting world-class resorts that seamlessly blend luxurious accommodations with championship-caliber courses. For a truly unforgettable stay-and-play experience, consider the Amendoeira Golf Resort, a haven near stunning southern Portugal beaches. This resort features two top-rated courses designed by legends Sir Nick Faldo and Christy O’Connor Jr., consistently ranking among Europe's best. Amendoeira is a fantastic choice for group golf trips and societies, offering a perfect blend of challenging play and relaxed luxury.

Alternatively, the Penina Hotel & Golf Resort stands as a beacon of golfing excellence in the Algarve. This 5-star resort is home to a Sir Henry Cotton-designed course, a regular fixture on the European Tour, solidifying its place among Portugal's top 30. Penina's reputation for world-class championship golf makes it a premier destination for couples and groups seeking the ultimate golf break. For those seeking a more family-friendly or couples-oriented luxury experience, the Dona Filipa Hotel, nestled beside the Vale do Lobo estate, offers 5-star accommodation and exceptional dining with breathtaking coastal views. Its proximity to Vale do Lobo beach adds another layer of allure to this already impressive resort.

Finally, Quinta do Lago, less than 20 minutes from Faro airport, caters to every golfing desire. With three championship courses, a Paul McGinley Golf Academy, and a TaylorMade Performance Centre, this resort is a true golfer's paradise. Its reputation as one of the world's great golf destinations is well-earned, offering a range of 5-star luxury hotels ideal for couples' retreats or large group getaways. For a more laid-back, all-inclusive option, the Sao Rafael Suites provides a fantastic base for groups, with complimentary shuttles to three of the Algarve's best courses. Its unbeatable coastal location and proximity to the beach make it a perfect choice for those seeking relaxation alongside their golf. And for those looking to be in the heart of the action, the Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Hotel offers 5-star luxury in a vibrant marina setting, perfect for groups, families, and couples looking for great nightlife and dining options after a day on the links.

Our guide to the best golf resorts in the Algarve.

The Local hotspots of Vilamoura and Albufeira have proved particularly popular among groups, with legendary nightlife and beautiful beaches in abundance. The awesome hotels of the Algarve are a great option for those looking to experience the bustling towns, offering great central locations with the local golf course still within easy reach.

If championship golf is your number one priority, one of the historic golf resorts could be the option for you, the resorts of the Algarve boast a number of Europe’s best courses and many offer luxury accommodation within walking distance of the fairways.

Monte Rei Golf & Country Club, a true jewel in the Algarve's golfing crown, stands out with its Jack Nicklaus Signature design. Opened in 2007, Monte Rei quickly earned superstar status, boasting epic views of the rolling Algarve hills and consistently ranking among Europe's top 10 courses. This is a must-play for serious golfers seeking a premium experience.

For a taste of championship golf, consider Vale do Lobo's Royal Course. This stunning layout, which incorporates 13 holes from the Royal and 5 from the Ocean courses, has hosted the Portuguese Open twice, showcasing its challenging design and dramatic elevation changes. Prepare to be wowed by spectacular views, particularly at the famous cliff-top par-3 signature hole. A stay and play package here offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of golfing legends.

Finally, Palmares Golf offers a unique and diverse golfing experience. With breathtaking views overlooking Lagos Bay, Palmares combines a variety of styles, including five links-like holes that weave through the sand dunes before transitioning into the estate's tree-lined hills. This visually stunning course has also hosted the PGA Portugal National Championship in 2014 and is regularly ranked within Europe's top 50. A stay at Palmares provides a memorable blend of coastal and inland golf, catering to a range of playing preferences.

Our guide to playing the best golf courses in the Algarve.

Vilamoura, located in the heart of the Algarve, Portugal, is a premier destination for golf holidays. A purpose-built haven for golfers, it's just 30 minutes from Faro Airport and boasts a high concentration of championship golf courses, including the acclaimed Vilamoura Golf & Vale do Lobo.

Beyond the greens, a Vilamoura golf holiday offers a complete cultural experience. The area is home to a lively marina with stylish bars, authentic Portuguese restaurants, boutique shops, and local artisan markets. It's the perfect destination for those seeking a tailored golf holiday with a blend of spectacular courses and a vibrant atmosphere.

View all Deals in Vilamoura >>

Albufeira is quickly becoming a top destination for golf holidays in the Algarve, Portugal. With a transfer time of only 40 minutes from Faro Airport, it has a unique charm that appeals to a wide range of visitors. A golf holiday in Albufeira combines beautiful sandy beaches, a vibrant nightlife and authentic seafood restaurants with great value accommodation.

The town provides easy access to some of the best golf courses in the Algarve, with a variety of options including all-inclusive getaways and top-rated resorts. The year-round sunshine, diverse accommodation, and rich culture contribute to a well-rounded and memorable golf holiday experience.

View all Deals in Albufeira >>

Quinta do Lago is a top-tier golf destination in Europe, situated in the Algarve's Ria Formosa Natural Park in Portugal. The resort is celebrated for its three championship courses—North, South, and Laranjal—and has been recognized as Golf Digest's 'Best International Resort' in 2016 and 2017. In addition to the golf courses, it features world-class practice facilities, including the Paul McGinley Golf Academy and Southern Europe's only TaylorMade Performance Centre.

The resort offers a complete luxury experience with fine dining, high-end accommodation like the Conrad Algarve and Hotel Quinta do Lago, and beautiful year-round weather. Its proximity to Faro Airport makes it an easily accessible option for golfers seeking a Portugal golf holiday.

View all Deals in Quinta do Lago >>

Tavira, located east of Faro and near the border with Spain, is a peaceful and traditional region of the Algarve that is ideal for a tranquil golf holiday. It is a wonderful holiday option for those who want to unwind on the golf course while taking in the Algarve's natural beauty. Tavira offers a variety of fantastic accommodations to suit any budget, along with a selection of Portugal's best golf courses.

While it may not have as many courses as other areas of the Algarve, the quality is undeniable, with designs that seamlessly blend into the beautiful natural surroundings. The region's idyllic setting, combined with excellent course design and high-quality accommodation options, makes it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and memorable trip.

View all Deals in Tavira >>

Alvor is an excellent destination for a golf holiday, particularly for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed experience in the Algarve region of Portugal. Located less than an hour west of Faro airport, it's easily accessible.

The town, a former fishing village, is known for its picturesque marina and a bustling town centre with shops, bars and restaurants. Alvor offers incredible value for money packages and a great choice of all inclusive hotels. The area also boasts stunning beaches and an ideal climate that allows for year-round golf.

View all Deals in Alvor >>

Lagos, located at the western edge of the Algarve in Portugal, is described as one of the region's best-kept golfing secrets. It is an old town that combines a vibrant nightlife and cultural experiences with fantastic golf. The area is ideal for groups or couples who want to enjoy golf, explore cultural sites, sunbathe and sample local cuisine.

What makes the golf courses in Lagos particularly appealing is that they are less crowded than in other regions, ensuring they are always in excellent condition. Golfers can experience what is referred to as millionaire golf with minimal slow play. The climate is also perfect for both golf and relaxation, offering year-round sunshine. The city is easily accessible from Faro Airport, which has flights from most major UK airports.

View all Deals in Lagos >>

Carvoeiro, a beautiful town on the south coast of Portugal, offers golfers a chance to relax and escape from everyday life. The town, which was formerly a fishing village, is known for its interesting history, culture, beautiful old architecture, and seafood restaurants. It is located less than an hour from Faro airport.

Carvoeiro provides a great balance of fantastic golf courses and a relaxing atmosphere. The courses in Carvoeiro are numerous and are fast becoming recognized by the golfing community. Notable courses include the Pinta Golf Course and the Gramacho Golf Course. The climate is typical of the Algarve, with warm conditions lasting all summer long until the end of October. Additionally, due to the popularity of the Algarve region, flights from the UK are frequent and can be found at bargain prices. The destination also offers outstanding accommodation options, ranging from superb luxury golf resorts to small residences.

View all Deals in Carvoeiro >>

Faro offers a great choice for golfers, serving as a central base for an Algarve golf break due to its easy transport access to the region's top golf courses. The destination offers great deals on accommodation and transfers to nearby courses.

While Faro is often seen as just an airport hub, it is also a well-known golfing resort town with a perfect climate, excellent golf choices and a mix of accommodation options. Its golf courses are recognized for their outstanding quality and facilities, focusing on providing both great places to play and to practice.

View all Deals in Faro >>