With views over the Lagos Bay and towards the distant Monchique Hills, Palmares has a stunning setting, and has an equally impressive course. Five of the holes border the sand dunes near the coastline, and have a distinct links feel, while the remainder winds through the lovely tree-lined undulations of the estate's higher ground.
Designed by Trent Jones Jr, the 6,905 yard layout is an Algarve favourite, and has a nerve-jangling opening tee shot, where golfers must stand atop the elevated tee and find the fairway of the demanding dog-leg par-4. Palmares, featuring 27 holes where all 3 loops of 9 return to the clubhouse, has spent 3 consecutive years as Best Golf Course in Portugal.
With the delights of Lagos nearby, it is no surprise that Palmares is such a favourite with regular golf holiday visitors to the popular Portuguese coastline.
Course Information
| Par |
72 |
| Designed by |
Robert Trent Jones II |
| Opened for play |
2010 |
| Previously hosted |
PGA Portugal Pro-Am (2011, 2013, 2014), PGA Portugal National Championship (2014) |
Alvor Tees
| White |
Yellow |
Red |
| 3,666 yards |
3,407 yards |
2,635 yards |
Lagos Tees
| White |
Yellow |
Red |
| 3,460 yards |
3,234 yards |
2,694 yards |
Praia Tees
| White |
Yellow |
Red |
| 3,247 yards |
2,978 yards |
2,452 yards |
Signature Hole: Hole 19, Par 4, 401 yards, SI 6
Featuring on “Golf Worlds” 100 classic golf holes, this hole is simply a masterpiece. The spectacular view from the tee overlooks the entire Southern Coast of Palmares and will almost certainly provide a sense of awe to all golfers. From the tee, a conservative approach uses the downhill slope playing straight. Shots played to the right of the fairway will make for a shortened 2nd shot, due to the nature of the contours. However, what makes this hole particularly dramatic is the possibility of a ‘risk-reward’, gained when cutting the corner of the dogleg and heading directly to the green. Although, golfers should be aware of unseen bunkers and rough surrounding the landing area between these two options. The 19th is certainly one the aggressive player will want to have a go at.
