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Penina Hotel & Golf Resort

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£341
Per Person
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3 Nights, 3 Rounds

    • 3 Nights Bed and Breakfast at Penina Hotel & Golf Resort
    • 2 Rounds at Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course
    • 1 Round at Resort Course or Academy

Set in the Alvor region of the Algarve, Penina Hotel & Golf Resort benefits from year-round sunshine, a real golfers paradise that is easily accessible by flying into Faro Airport and making the 40-minute drive to the resort. The Penina Resort is the definition of all-encompassing, with a 5-star hotel, 36 holes of golf alongside a host of on-site activities on offer, including; tennis, cycling, archery and watersports in the summer.

Of course, you will want to relax and indulge on your perfect golf holiday, the resort boasts five restaurants and two bars, offering a stunning array of cuisines and cocktails for you to sample. When it comes to resort golf breaks in Portugal, Penina is as good as it gets.

Penina Hotel & Golf Resort

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From
£341
Per Person

3 Nights, 3 Rounds

    • 3 Nights Bed and Breakfast at Penina Hotel & Golf Resort
    • 2 Rounds at Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course
    • 1 Round at Resort Course or Academy

We’ve got it all covered!

We have included everything that you need for a perfect golf trip.

From
£441
Per Person

4 Nights, 3 Rounds

    • 4 Nights Bed and Breakfast at Penina Hotel & Golf Resort
    • 2 Rounds at Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course
    • 1 Round at Resort Course or Academy
From
£551
Per Person

5 Nights, 5 Rounds

    • 5 Nights Bed and Breakfast at Penina Hotel & Golf Resort
    • 3 Rounds at Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course
    • 2 Rounds at Resort Course or Academy
From
£742
Per Person

7 Nights, 7 Rounds

    • 7 Nights Bed and Breakfast at Penina Hotel & Golf Resort
    • 4 Rounds at Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course
    • 3 Rounds at Resort Course or Academy

Golf Courses at Penina Hotel & Golf Resort

Championship Course

Opened in 1966 and designed by Sir Henry Cotton, Penina's Championship Course was the first golf course built in the Algarve. The Championship course has been host to the Portuguese Open eleven times, and is also a regular stop for the European Seniors Tour.

Originally built on rice paddies, the 6,869 yard course is by and large quite flat but is set amongst mature trees and shrubs, with each of the fairways lined with impressive woodland. As a result of the mature setting of the golf course, accurate shot making is required to score well on the par-73 Championship course.

Signature Hole:  Hole 7, Par 4, 310 metres (339 yards), SI 16

The 7th is a hole which combines risk with reward, with many golfers opting to play short of the water which cuts across the fairway, this will bring a longer iron into a small undulating green. Those wanting to hit a driver can find themselves with a much shorter club in but run the risk of finding water.

Course Information
Par 73
Designed by Sir Henry Cotton
Opened for play 1966
Previously hosted Portuguese Open (10 occasions)
Tees
White 6,860 yards SSS 73
Yellow 6,373 yards SSS 73
Blue 5,918 yards SSS 71
Red 5,621 yards SSS 73

Resort Course

The nine hole par-35 Resort course sits close to the Championship Course and provides golfers the ideal opportunity to hone their skills. The course takes advantage of a lake to provide an interesting and satisfying round and has all of the same characteristics of the Championship course, with tree lined fairways that require accuracy above all else.

Course Information
Par 30
Designed by Sir Henry Cotton
Opened for play 1972
Tees
White 3,627 yards
Yellow 2,875 yards

Academy Course

In addition to the Championship and Resort golf courses, the Penina Resort also offers the Academy Course. Previously named the North Course, this 9-hole par-30 "Executive" course features 18 tees and makes full use of a number of lakes and sand hazards making it an enjoyable course that tests the skills of all abilities.

The Championship's short 13th hole is ranked in the world's top 500 holes, with water guarding the front of the green.

Course Information
Par 35
Designed by Sir Henry Cotton
Opened for play 1977
Length 2,204 yards

Accommodation at Penina Hotel & Golf Resort

Located in a magnificent 360 acre estate, Penina Golf & Resort reflects its culture through a natural fusion of English architecture, Portuguese hospitality and high standards of service.

The 196 rooms and suites, recently totally renovated with flat Screen TV, high speed internet access, automatic mini bar, electronic safe, coffee and tea facilities offering to the customers comfort, wellness and a stunning view over the mountains, gardens and golf courses.

Food & Drink

Five restaurants and two Bars invite the guests to taste the International or Mediterranean cuisine and light cocktails. Try fine Italian in L'Arlecchino, or traditional Portuguese classics in the lovely Sagres dining room, while Le Grill Restaurant is a more formal option, á la carte.

The Spikes Bar and Henry Cotton's are both great golfer's watering holes, while the Monchique Cocktail Bar is a bit more refined, serving freshly mixed drinks in elegant surroundings.

Leisure Facilities

Penina's excellent tennis academy has 5 ATP tennis courts where you can take part in lessons and clinics with the resident professionals. Guests who want to relax after a challenging round can do so on the beach or next to the largest swimming pool in the Algarve. Additional facilities include a sauna, bicycle rentals, a kids' club, shopping options and live entertainment for guests. This makes the Penina Hotel and Golf Resort an ideal choice for family holidays as well.

How to get to Penina Golf Resort

Penina Golf Resort is located in the Western Algarve in Alvor, less than an hour’s drive from Faro airport.

Address: P.O Box 146 Penina, Portimao, Algarve, 2501 - 952

Features

  • Gymnasium
  • Tennis
  • Outdoor Swimming Pool
  • Cycle Hire
  • Archery
  • Air-Conditioning
  • Direct Dial Telephone
  • Wake-up Call
  • Satellite TV
  • Minibar
  • On-Site Parking
  • In House Bar
  • In House Restaurant
  • Golf Buggies
  • Pitch and Putt
  • Driving Range
  • Pro Shop
  • Tuition
  • Putting Greens
  • Practice Area
  • Golf Club Hire
  • Championship Standard Course
  • Golf Academy

What Our Golfers Say

8.4
Very Good
370 reviews
Bar / Restaurant 8.0
Facilities 8.0
Location 8.4
Room comfort 8.2
Staff 9.0
Value for money 8.2
These reviews are from verified Your Golf Travel customers.

Excellent
10.0

Staff were excellent and really enjoyed the experience

Very Good
8.0

Stay was very good but the hotel was very tired and needed an update in many areas

Good
6.0

Golf courses does not reflex the quality of the Hotel. Information on the condition of the resort course was not communicated by the staff or YGT.

Very Good
8.0

The hotel was clean and functional for the trip.However it is very dated and could do with a little modernisation.

Excellent
10.0

A great place to stay, the breakfasts were exquisite. Food at the Hotel was excellent. Staff helpful ++. Transfer from Faro about 50 mins. I’d give it a 9/10

Good
6.0

It was a nice hotel, it was large, spaced out, it didn’t feel like guests were on top of each other. The pool was really nice although the lady who starts her shift in the bar after 3pm was probably the most miserable woman I’ve ever come across in hospitality. She complained about every one of our orders, complained about giving us our change, she couldn’t have made guests feel less welcome. The facilities were pretty good and the grounds directly around the hotel are really well kept.

Very Good
8.0

It’s a bit tired but service is excellent

Good
6.0

Having visited the hotel many times over the last 30 there is an obvious decline in maintainance. Internally the hotel is well kept and is clean. Externally the hotel looks tired and has needed repainted for a number of years. The restaurant staff and cleaning staff are very attentive but bar staff lack interest and the service is very slow and generally look bored.

Good
6.0

Very Good
8.0

The old lady of the Algarve continues to deliver. Been visiting Penina for over 20 years on golf trips. Always immaculately clean and fresh.

Excellent
10.0

The hotel was absolutely fine. Friendly staff and well organised. Great value,can't ask for anymore. Would definitely come back again !

Very Good
8.0

Very dated but clean and comfortable In need of modernisation

Excellent
10.0

Lovely hotel with large swimming pool, tennis courts, gym and everything else that you could ask for from a golf resort. The food in both restaurants was excellent and good value for money.

Very Good
8.0

Good
6.0

Nice hotel, obviously a dated venue which added character. Although a few things do need repair/renovation.

Good
6.0

It is a grand resort that is fading. They could really do with some padel courts on one of the many tennis courts not used. Lots of peeling paint and plaster. BUt obviously very grand at one point. Loved the Snooker table and Grill restaurant.

Excellent
10.0

Hotel was comfortable and provided a nice breakfast each day. Staff were always very helpful and polite

Good
6.0

Hotel a little dated could do with referb.

Good
6.0

Very Good
8.0

A five star hotel that has no Gordon’s Gin or Drambuie doesn’t seem appropriate

Good
6.0

The hotel is a little tired but the staff couldn’t have been more helpful especially Dolores and Carlos. There is no indoor pool or proper spa( jacuzzi/ steam room etc) and the outdoor pool was closed and not warm enough in April anyway - had an out of season feel. Rooms were fine, breakfast choice was actually amazing. Local town ( Alvor) is a great place to go for a meal. Everyone is clearly geared up for English speaking tourists.

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

No issues at all but hotel looking a bit dated and in need of some TLC

Very Good
8.0

Really enjoyed the hotel , the only thing that let it down was the misinformation regarding certain restaurants being opened for meals and not being told that there was a dress code for the grill bar ( we found this out when the waiters and patrons looked down on us for being casually dressed )

Excellent
10.0

From the minute you get out the transport there is a door man there to Greet you and take your bags and golf clubs up to your room for you. Greeted with a smile from the lady's on the desk as they took your details. And offered you a glass of Portuguese wine.

Very Good
8.0

Hotel is a proper older large hotel with fantastic staff always ready to help. Beds comfortable, bars and restaurants well stocked and close to good local nightlife.

Good
6.0

Nice location but hotel is very tired and in need of an upgrade

Excellent
10.0

The hotel and staff were very professional and always happy to help. The morning breakfast was the best ive had, so much variety, it even had its own honey bee stand in which u could cut your own slice off to spread on toast or even drip into the morning coffee instead of using sugar.. I'd actually never seen one upclose.. The club house were happy to change our tee off times to suit us which was fantastic.. We were a group of 5 lads & we all we very impressed with the hotel..

Very Good
8.0

Really goid, enjoyed it

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

Really enjoyed the stay at penina golf resort had everything on site we required for 4 days stayed b&b and can't fault the choice each morning to start the day... We was lucky as weather was brilliant each day regards ian&neil

Excellent
10.0

Hotel really nice all the staff excellent Really helpful the restaurants where very Nice the grill a little more expensive but Worth it the Henry cotton restaurant Was also good and the staff very helpful At lunchtime you could have sandwiches to take away ve ray reasonable on price

Very Good
8.0

I really enjoyed my stay at the Penina golf resort. The staff were very friendly and helpful. My only criticism would be the lack of vegetarian options at the restaurants.

Very Good
8.0

Room comfortable and clean , food good and staff very helpful and friendly

Very Good
8.0

Really enjoyed the hotel. Shame it was late in the season and very quiet. Limited options for food was a bit disappointing. Overall we enjoyed our stay.

Very Good
8.0

Hotel was nice, staff were lovely, food was great. Room was a bit dated, tv didn’t work too great and the plug sockets I needed to charge my phone in was in a cupboard.

Good
6.0

We enjoyed the hotel on a b and b basis Not the best breakfast the cooked part was poor

Excellent
10.0

our group of 20 have been going toPenina for several years. We like the formula of staying and playing in one place plus really enjoy the bars and restaurants of nearby Alvor.

Very Good
8.0

Overall quite pleased. (Just glad to get away!). Room was very good with a comfortable bed. Smart TV but with only half a dozen channels. Nice and quite - couldn't hear anyone from other rooms. Unfortunately the balcony looked over a busy road so not as pleasant and restful as the other side of the hotel. The food was very good on the whole and plenty of it. (Just one annoying fly!) The staff were all very attendant, polite and helpful. Unfortunately no-one in the hotel was able to help me get the wifi to connect to my device which was particularly annoying (several tried). Came home with an arm full of little bites, unfortunately.

Good
6.0

The hotel has seen better days but it provides a good base for golf parties. The food was excellent, particularly in the Italian restaurant 😋 Rooms were small, but clean and adequate.

Good
6.0

The rooms were clean and serviced daily although the shower was not very good. We were on the 4th floor which gave lovely views but the balcony was very small. The staff were very good, very friendly and helpful, breakfast was excellent, the Itaian restaurant was excellent but the Grill wasn't very good. Using user trips to Alvor were usually less than €7 and the town was great. Overall would recommend the hotel as a reasonably cheap stay.

Very Good
8.0

The hotel was airy and comfortable. Dining room for breakfast was very comfortable and staff were excellent. Swimming pool is fantastic with lots of beds to relax after your golf. Staff at the Pro Shop were also magnificent and so helpful.

Good
6.0

The hotel has always been in need of a bit of tlc but the staff have made the place but unfortunately this timeshare appeared to be a lack of staff and several were not particularly welcoming , the bedroom was OK but little things like water in the fridge etch would make things seem better

Very Good
8.0

It’s a bit dated now. Needs some TLC. Will go with again next year. When can you book tees times?

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

The hotel is fine. Staff very friendly. I’m sure it was 5 star once upon a time but it is a bit tired now. But still very clean and plenty good enough for a few days.

Very Good
8.0

Getting a little old, but facilities are great. Breakfast amazing and the pool extremely good.

Very Good
8.0

Good
6.0

The hotel is showing its age and is badly in need of a refurbishment. Staff were great and food was good. A little bit out of town but we knew that before we arrived and taxis into Alvor are inexpensive.

Very Good
8.0

Very helpful staff, good facilities including a decent gym. Rooms are comfortable and nicely presented. Very happy with the hotel - good value for money.

Excellent
10.0

Fantastic experience on our 1st golf trip. Alvor 5mins from Golf resort which had a range of lovely restaurants and bars. Golf resort was lovely. Can’t wait to book another golf trip next year

Good
6.0

Room was and hotel was clean. Staff extremely helpful polite and professional. Location is not close to much not even a local shop. The food choice within the hotel was poor except for breakfast.

Very Good
8.0

Excellent
10.0

Excellent
10.0

One of the best golf holiday stays I’ve had, Penina, you were exceptional. The Henry Cotton course was one of the best I’ve played

Very Good
8.0

Friendly staff and decent quality and price

Good
6.0

Nice hotel but in need of updating

Excellent
10.0

Good
6.0

The hotel looks jaded & is in desperate need of an upgrade. Looks like nothing has been done to it for 20 years. On the positive side, the staff were helpful & friendly & the breakfast was outstanding.

Excellent
10.0

Excellent
10.0

The hotel overall is very good, staff, food and cleanliness are all great. It’s an old hotel and has a lot of character and plenty of indoor and outdoor space, but it could do with a little bit of a face lift now. There are a few areas that need tidied up, the paintwork and masonry outside. Other than that good

Very Good
8.0

On arriving we were disappointed at the overall appearance of the hotel. Needs painting & updating. Our room was overlooking the car park! Had to pay extra for a better view?! Staff extremely friendly, very clean. Food in all restaurants excellent. Both golf courses well kept very well organised with tee times etc. No free transport into Alvor as we had expected so taxis added again to the cost. We were also charged for 2 Golf carry bags but only had one. Overall a good experience but more costly than originally hoped.

Excellent
10.0

Perfect for a group of 20 with golf on site, excellent value although a better deal for buggies would've been nice, a bit expensive at 50 euro each!

Very Good
8.0

Good
6.0

Generally good. Golf course is not what it used to be.

Very Good
8.0

Penina is a lovely smaller hotel, which is why we like it. It shows it's age though compared to more modern hotels as the rooms are a bit dated.

Very Good
8.0

Although a tad dated the resort was excellent, staff were superb and very friendly. The food was really good and lots of choice. Can’t wait to return

Very Good
8.0

The room was excellent although dated. Best breakfast in the Algarve and really experienced and helpful staff. Only reason not 5 stars was condition of outside ofbuilding and outside pathways. Rendering missing and uneven surfaces.

Excellent
10.0

Golf course could do with some TLC We were booked to play twice but cancelled 2nd round and played somewhere else

Excellent
10.0

Fantastic stay at Penina for 20 day swhich included 20 rounds of golf and half board. Just be aware that the Grill will charge if you the balance if you spend over 30 euros for food. Everything was perfect and no moans at all. Food excellent, accomodation fine, staff really attentive even to the extent of one of the staff removing a splinter from my hand. Weather warm and sunny. Both courses Championship and Resort in ok shape i believe due to hot dry summer. All in all great break.

Very Good
8.0

Slightly dated hotel, but still holds its charm

Good
6.0

We were sold a package which included two golf courses at this resort, the champion ship and the resort course. WE could only play one and had to change one of our tee times and course bookings direct with the hotel, the resort course is unplayable, has not been watered or cared for and is a dustbowl. We were also sold this package on the premise that the hotel had four restaurants. The Italian and the Henry Cotton were closed each night and the buffet only opened twice leaving us to dine in the Grill room the fine dining restaurant only.

Average
4.0

HOTEL ROOMS ARE SMALL,HOTEL NEEDS REFURBISHMENT.

Very Good
8.0

Penina never disappoints. Great value and the perfect place for a golf break

Very Good
8.0

Staff this trip where terrible they were rude and made mistakes with the bills where they tried changing two of my party with the drinks they didn't have and the manager in the Henry Cotton bar was very rude and accused them of lying the mistakes started to happen when they were changing shifts not good customer service

Average
4.0

Hotel is in need of upgrade. It looks like there has been no maintenance in a long time. The pool has a number of tiles missing which makes swimming potentially hazardous. The golf range needs an upgrade

Good
6.0

We paid extra for an upgraded pool view room. The hotel is very traditional but in need of updating and some TLC. Definitely not 5 Star. Maybe in its hay day. We were told by yourselves that money was being invested in the hotel ……but not sure where

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

Great hotel for golfers who don't want to drive to the course to play. Just have breakfast and your on the course. Very relaxed.

Very Good
8.0

Friendly staff but Hotel looked tired

Good
6.0

We have just returned from 4 nights at Penina with mixed feelings. Our overall feeling is one of faded glory. It's clear that Penina was once a grand hotel. Unfortunately, time and lack of investment are taking their toll. There were bright spots - the pool, the restaurants & food and some of the staff. But there are also some important to note failings - the public areas are dated and tired, the rooms are very basic and ours was very small for a 5 start hotel, especially when we paid extra for a pool view, a number of the staff were not 'on it' and the bar lacks character as well as a decent drinks menu, the exterior could do with painting which adds to the jaded feel.

Excellent
10.0

Our first visit to a golf resort and there was everything we could have asked for. The staff were brilliant and hotel. Had a great ye and we would go back

Average
4.0

Basically old and falling to bits. Do not recommend. Nowhere near 5 star hotel.

Good
6.0

Great value, good gym, easy access to the course and range. Food and drink at breakfast or the bar and restaurant were top quality. Big pool and plenty of space. That being said all appeared to need a bit of modernising and a refresh, quite dated

Excellent
10.0

The accommodation at Penina Resort is 100%,lovely bedrooms and the staff are so friendly and talkative, food fantastic.

Very Good
8.0

The room was clean and tidy would have been better with more refreshments in the room, as only got a couple of coffee capsules, would be great if it had a small fridge.

Very Good
8.0

The staff here were great throughout the whole stay, the rooms were really nice and also the pool area was nice. The only issue we faced was when one of my friends got injured and there was 0 first aid around anywhere.

Very Good
8.0

Room was clean and tidy and bed was very comfortable. Had problems with both entry pass and the safe but staff responded promptly. Didn’t use gym or pool so can’t comment. The bars were good whilst The Grill restaurant was very good indeed.

Excellent
10.0

Excellent
10.0

As we well know the hotel and rooms are a bit tired and need freshening up but it’s a nice older hotel which has stil some nice features and the setting with the golf course on sight is fantastic. The breakfast is first class with plenty of choice and staff very friendly , as all other areas of the hotel . Nice to have chance to play snooker and bar area , although dated , Was comfortable. Otherwise totally satisfied with the stay .

Very Good
8.0

Excellent
10.0

We had a lovely time at Penina. It was very quiet while we were there, the hotel had very few guests so the atmosphere was extremely calm and sombre. Breakfast was particularly fantastic, the bars were ok but too quiet to make them enjoyable. Our room was lovely with a great balcony, though I’d have preferred to have been given the choice of single or double beds.

Excellent
10.0

We've been to Penina many times. This visit was just as excellent as the rest.

Excellent
10.0

Perfect :)

Very Good
8.0

A lovely hotel that has everything that most people will need. Becoming a little tired but still a good option

Very Good
8.0

Had good room this year overlooking pool, really nice

Very Good
8.0

Room poorly serviced,location and facilities excellent would need a bit of renovation and updating and more than one lift.Appeared to be short of staff.ok

Very Good
8.0

Lovely hotel. Service in the bars rather slow otherwise ok.

Excellent
10.0

Great hotel for families

Good
6.0

Hotel showing its age and needs upgrading to be 5 star in 2022. It is short staffed and the service, especially in the grill resteraunt was awful. The quality of the food was great but it literally took hours to arrive. Most staff tried their best but the Horel is not what it was.

Good
6.0

The hotel staff were accommodating in offering an alternative room with a pool view. The room in general was light and airy and comfortable. The poolside bar staff were in short not the most helpful, kept waiting to be served, witnessed several loud disagreements between staff, same goes for hotel bar.

Very Good
8.0

Lovely traditional hotel. Some people may not think it is not up to standard as rooms are a bit basic and hotel is a bit old but we love it. Renovations are planned but hope it doesn't change the character. Good food and bar area. Amazing grounds, setting and pool areas. Quiet hotel so if you don't want all the entertainment etc its one for you.

Very Good
8.0

Fifth visit! Lovely location ,pool is great and everyone very friendly ! Our rooms were originally on the 4th floor and not what we were used to previously very dark and balcony very small so very disappointed but after speaking to the reception they moved us without a problem!

Very Good
8.0

Our group of 7 golfers stayed at Penina on June 9-13, 2022. Having read some recent poor online reviews, we were a little bit concerned about what we'd find. But had an excellent time. The staff throughout the hotel could not have been more helpful. And all the Pro Shop team and Caddymasters were fantastic. Our hotel rooms were clean and comfortable (perhaps in need of a bit of refreshment) but perfectly OK. Buffet breakfast was superb and we ate snacks after golf in the Henry Cotton Club after our rounds...I recommend the samosas and bread basket. We ate out in Alvor and Lagos in the evening, so can't comment on the full meal selection offered. But we returned in the late evenings for drinks and the bar staff were always efficient, polite and accommodating. Wifi was free and readily available. All in all, I'd have no hesitation in recommending Penina to golfers and families. It's a little bit dated, but after two years of Covid-affected business, it's hard to criticise. The gardens were well-kept and the pool was great.

Good
6.0

The service is not what one has come to expect. Shortage of staff has affected service and facilities

Good
6.0

Held (hostage) for 3 hours in reception, unable to book in as we were told YGT had not paid Penina. THey said they had rooms but they would charge us. Despite 3 phone calls & 2 emails from ourselves to YGT no one seemed aware of the problem. Our room had no mountain view, noisy road unable to use balcony. No shuttle bus to beach. Not all hotel restaurants were open.

Good
6.0

Having stayed at Penina for many years we have noticed a decline in standards not a 5 star hotel anymore. Dreadful conditions on the course.

Very Good
8.0

We've been to Penina several times and always enjoy it, though the hotel is getting a little tired compared to more modern hotels.

Very Good
8.0

Top end hotel in it's day and still carries a sense of grandeur. New owners plan a refurb 2022 so hopefully restored to it's former glory. However, quality of food, room and facilities were all more than acceptable for the price we paid.

Very Good
8.0

Brilliant staff, though very understaffed throughout the hotel. Some of restaurants not open, despite being advertised as open. Room service excellent

Very Good
8.0

The Hotel is very good but is needing a bit of tlc after the pandemic. The staff were excellent but there was not enough of them so those that were there were spread very thinly. As a result service at lunchtime was poor and waits for food often long. There were minor maintenance issues like leaking showers and the paint was flaking from walls outside. However the food was excellent and these issues did not spoil our stay

Very Good
8.0

Great hotel with 2 golf courses. The service was very friendly. The bars were all excellent. The rooms were small but had everything you need. We had a brilliant 4 nights there and will definitely look forward to going back again.

Excellent
10.0

Staff where brilliant very friendly and helpful

Excellent
10.0

Another great trip to the lovely Penina. The hotel may be a little tired and dated looking but is such a fantastic place to go with a group of ladies. This is the fifth time we have been and that says it all. Golf on site, good food when you come and happy hour-what more could you want!

Very Good
8.0

Have visited this Hotel for many years. Lovely to be back and made very welcome.. The Restaurants were not all open this early in the year which was a tad disappointing but this probably reflected the number of Guests. My review kindly takes into account the difficulties that must have been faced during Portugals 2 Lockdowns.

Very Good
8.0

As always a very enjoyable stay at the Penina Hotel.

Good
6.0

Very adequate nice fresh towels and bed linen

Very Good
8.0

The hotel was good and staff were welcoming. Although there are lots of facilities and restaurants etc advertised on the website, it was clear a bunch either weren't opened some of the time or at all - not sure if this is a time of year issue. Didn't have a massive impact on our stay but would probably be served better if transparency of the facilities was stronger. Good location, close to nice towns. Overall grand place to stay and would go back for a golf trip.

Excellent
10.0

Lovely rooms, shame the pool was shut

Very Good
8.0

All round very good

Very Good
8.0

Excellent
10.0

Really great complex, service brilliant could not do enough for you breakfast spot on. plus good menu for snack/ evening meal.

Very Good
8.0

Very good hotel - perfect for a weekend of golf. Would have been very plush when it first opened, but still an excellent stay in 2021. Food also very good, although breakfast could have been stronger, particularly the produce of the cooked breakfast

Very Good
8.0

A really relaxing place to stay. It is calm and the staff are amazing! They are so helpful and friendly, they can’t do enough. We love the pool area, dinner in the grill and generally food is really good. The hotel is looking a bit in need of paint in places.

Excellent
10.0

We were welcomed by name on arrival, which was a fabulous personal touch. The staff were friendly, efficient and helpful. A slight drawback was the mountain facing room where the balcony got no sunshine. An excellent value deal. Book in advance if you want to play tennis!

Excellent
10.0

Very Good
8.0

Good
6.0

The hotel has clearly been a top hotel in the past but is now showing it’s age with flaking paint, pathways requiring repair, etc. It is still a lovely setting but the owners have not been spending any money over the past couple of years and this can be seen in the presentation and finishes throughout. Some stairwell/hallway lights were out, hand drier in toilet not working etc.

Very Good
8.0

A great hotel with a lovely breakfast and 2 bars 1 outside for a drink outside after your round and another for a late night drink inside Lovely rooms and balconies Down side is you have to pay for water in your room which doesn't go with the hotels 5 star rating

Very Good
8.0

Relaxed atmosphere food was very good and golf arrangements were very easy .Everywhere was very clean the staff were obliging and helpful ,maybe the rooms were a little Spartan but possibly because of Covid pandemic.Definately would book again .

Good
6.0

Well looked after but only one restaurant open and limited service

Very Good
8.0

The hotel is as I remembered, and on the whole very good. I cannot fault the staff - they are very friendly and helpful and cannot do enough for you during your stay. The only small negative would be that some of the areas look a bit tired and in need of a freshen up, but given the tough times the hotel has been operating in recently I would understand why it hasn't happened to this point. The food selection is good, although in the evening there is only the choice of one restaurant or a buffet. You need to book the restaurant or else you will likely not be able to get a table. The buffet was what you would expect, but in my opinion was overpriced at €30 per head.

Excellent
10.0

Have stayed several times at this hotel , Even with the covid rules in Portugal the hotel was a fantastic as normal Great rooms and staff , organised our return tests at a great price Will be return there again and would highly recommend

Excellent
10.0

From check in to check out our experience was excellent! The hotel was clean, the staff were friendly and helpful when needed, the food was excellent and the golf coach and facilities were the best I've ever been to. Highly recommend.

Good
6.0

We received a warm welcome from the reception staff. The hotel is tired and needs updating. Staff in the Henry Cotton Bar are surly. Breakfast was disappointing as food from the hot buffet was cold and tough.

Good
6.0

Only two restraints open, when should be 4. Same menus all the time

Very Good
8.0

The hotel hasn't changed in all the years we have been going there. Some of the furnishings and fittings are looking a bit tired and will need updating soon. However, the staff are brilliant. You meet the same people in reception, in the restaurants and in the golf shop and they are polite, helpful and pleased to see you.

Excellent
10.0

We have been staying at Penina for 20 years and it always produces the goods . The staff are maybe not as friendly as they used to be but it was not a problem.

Very Good
8.0

The hotel is a little tired and could do with freshening up. Particularly the bedrooms On saying that my group of golfers (4 in total) would certainly return and most likely will It will be difficult to improve on as both hotel and staff were excellent The food and service was very good and the standard of the food incredible Due to some changes with Tee times we played the championship course 3 times and were all very impressed Yourgolftravel were excellent throughout the booking process and would certainly ( providing they are competitive) use them again The organisation has been first class from start to finish

Excellent
10.0

very good service. hotel very quiet in December. food lovely. bedroom a little small but adequate and lovely views.

Excellent
10.0

We’ve been here many times so we’re very familiar with the place and those who have worked in the hotel from many years recognised us right away. You need a car for this hotel as it’s out of the way. It’s great for exploring as the roads are very quiet. When golfing you just head down to the basement clubhouse at the back level where they have your clubs already on the buggy waiting for you. They also store your clubs when you get back so no need to carry them at all. When not eating in the hotel there are plenty restaurants to go to in Alvor about 5- 10 minutes by car or taxi. Around 10 euros down and then after 10 pm it jumps to almost double

Excellent
10.0

Been to Penina many times. Always a great relaxing golf experience with no hassle getting to a course somewhere up to an hour away! The facilities were all in great condition. Alvor village is just 10 minutes by Uber cab where you can enjoy ever improving brilliant fish restaurants and curry houses if you need a reminder of home comforts!

Excellent
10.0

My friends and I were all extremely impressed with the hotel. The bedrooms were comfortable with facilities to make tea and coffee. The food in the restaurants was excellent.All of the menus were varied with lots of choice to suit everyone's palate. Breakfasts were amazing. Staff were very helpful and happy to book taxis and outside restaurants for us.

Very Good
8.0

Enjoyed our stay. Bed Rooms are looking a bit tired needing some upgrading.

Excellent
10.0

Accomadation first class food was good a bit expensive

Very Good
8.0

Average
4.0

The staff and service they offered were exceptionally poor (exc. the team that managed your bags upon arrival and departure).

Excellent
10.0

As a group of 16, everyone enjoyed the experience at Penina. A very comfortable and stylish hotel, well positioned for all our needs and only a short taxi ride from Alvor for something a little more lively.

Very Good
8.0

hotels was nice but a bit expensive but taxi down to alvor and everything was there for food and night time entertainment

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

A nice quiet friendly atmosphere.

Very Good
8.0

Hotel is old style but comfortable , we enjoyed our few days there.

Good
6.0

An extensive drinks menu but only a few of the items were actually available. Swimming pool is allegedly the largest in the Algarve; however, it is also the coldest! However, the grounds are excellent, maybe a consideration for mattresses on the sunbeds? Breakfast is good; the Fine Dining in the Le Grill Restaurant is excellent and I'd recommend also trying the L'arlecchino Italian Restaurant. The rooms are OK, maybe a tad on the small size, Tea & Coffee facilities in the room; watch the Mini-Bar, if you remove something, it's automatically added to your room bill. Pool view rooms are certainly recommended. Front of House staff were excellent; very helpful. Because of its location, it's a 10GBP taxi ride into Alvor and you can waiting 10-15 minutes for a taxi to come out to the hotel. It's a palatial-looking hotel but, as with most Algarve hotels, it could do with a refurb.

Very Good
8.0

It is a first class hotel and the staff are well trained, efficient and friendly. The prices for food and drinks are well above what we would normally pay for similar in the U.K, but we weren't there to save money, so we accepted it as part of the overall cost of the holiday

Excellent
10.0

Excellent staff and you are made to feel welcome as soon as you walk into reception.

Excellent
10.0

Superb all round, good rooms, lovely restaurants and good breakfast choice. Staff were exceptionally nice, could not be more helpful.

Excellent
10.0

Everything went well guys can't wait to go back

Excellent
10.0

great hotel and great golf

Excellent
10.0

We arrived at 6 pm and the reception staff were pleasant helpful and friendly.The hotel was busy but everybody had plenty of time to take care of all our needs.The rooms were very well presented.The great thing about playing here is everything on site.This is our second time here and we will be back again.

Good
6.0

G

Very Good
8.0

Nice comfortable hotel with good facilities and an excellent golf course. Staff friendly and helpful.

Excellent
10.0

Very comfortable and very welcoming, we felt that the Sagres restaurant food was not as good as previous years and also Club Sandwich (one of our favourites) poor, however the one highlight of the the Sagres is the buffet breakfast which is excellent. We will be back again!

Very Good
8.0

Room very comfortable and glad of choice of room overlooking pool and golf courses. Grounds were very well maintained and outside al fresco area for light refreshments was very pleasant. Food at the various restaurants was good and the staff helpful and pleasant-although at times it was slightly under-staffed ,although to be fair there was a competition week going on.,

Excellent
10.0

As this was our 4th time at penina we knew what to expect. Great hotel and facilities.

Excellent
10.0

First rate hotel with excellent rooms. Excellent showers, clean and facilities good with coffee machine and well stocked fridge. Bit disappointed that they only had one draft beer in bar namely Sagres which was gassy and devoid of flavour. Not worth 5 euros for a pint. Food from bar was good and breakfast was great with plenty of choice.

Excellent
10.0

Excellent
10.0

Staff welcoming. Nothing is too much trouble. We were looked after really well.

Excellent
10.0

Great hotel friendly staff all round had a fantastic time.

Excellent
10.0

Would prefer a room overlooking the swimming pool, Breakfast is superb, the bar snacks are less tasty and a bit pricey.

Very Good
8.0

The hotel was very welcoming but a bit like an "old folks home" in the public seating and bar area. Being off season, some to the facilities are closed. ie. swimming pool. Staff were great. Compared with nearby Alvor (10 Euro taxi away), prices in the hotel for food and drink are more than double. The Grill was good quality fare. Room was small but very comfortable and spotlessly clean. The bathroom looked like it had been very recently replaced and to a very high standard. Easy to see why some people have been going to this hotel every year for 30+ years. I would return.

Excellent
10.0

This was an amazing location and trip. The hotel staff and course where excellent along with the "Club Sandwich" We will return excellent

Very Good
8.0

All good

Very Good
8.0

Six or seven years since our last stay and in a good way little has changed, a comfortable enough mountainside room with pleasant staff and good breakfast, it really does what you expect with no fuss.

Excellent
10.0

great trip, 3rd time we've been and would go again

Good
6.0

The smallest room ever for a 5star hotel wardrobe so small my wife could not hang her long dresses because the draws and fridge were in there couldn’t open draws safely has a black thumb now no indoor pool water I think they think it’s champagne !!! At the price they want you to pay buggies £50 a go I think it’s a good 3star hotel I’ve been 4 times before this maybe the last

Excellent
10.0

Very clean and pleasant, really enjoyed.

Very Good
8.0

Very well looked after on arrival and that continued for the 4 days we were there. Staff very helpful and polite and overall hotel experience was very good.

Very Good
8.0

Very enjoyable stay- although there was no entertainment in the hotel any evening - or none that I was aware of! Only negative - I was amazed & v disappointed that a hotel of this standard does not supply complimentary drinking water in hotel rooms.

Good
6.0

Hotel is comfortable, if a bit tired and old fashioned. Service is a bit inconsistent, slow at times and very helpful others. Worst feature is the anachronistic dress code in the Grill. To ban shorts in a golf hotel in hot weather is simply stupid. On the first evening of our stay we were in danger of going hungry, we were all showered, dressed in tailored shorts and shirts. Bennett entry to the restaurants and only after demanding to see the duty manager, we were ‘allowed’ to eat outside on the terrace. Not acceptable in this day and age. Visitors need to be warned in advance. Needless to say we eat out on the remaining nights of our visit.

Very Good
8.0

This is a very nice hotel with a very pleasant atmosphere; virtually everyone there was a golfer. I would question its 5 star rating. It felt more like 4 star, maybe plus. The single rooms were quite small and the furnishings a little crude, although everything needed was there. Like every hotel I have stayed in, the plumbing was in need of serious attention. Tap flow rate was very slow and the hot water came out brown for the first day. It took five minutes for the sink to drain. However, the bidet was brilliant for cleaning my golf shoes! Overall it was a most enjoyable stay for my first golfing trip abroad.

Very Good
8.0

Our group stayed at the Penina resort between the 25th and 30th of September and consisted of four male golfers and we were joined by two of the wives for the last couple of nights. This was our first visit to the resort and we were overall quite impressed. There is definitely a quirky old charm about the hotel. It feels dates but not in a bad way. There are some modern touches in the rooms which are of a good standard.Rooms cleaned each morning. What stood out for me was the friendliness of almost all of the staff. Bar one rude lady working in the spa and the way she spoke to our wives about a booking they had made. But otherwise the staff were exceptional. Good was good especially the breakfast and at the Henry Cotton restaurant and bar. One evening meal at The Grill was good but very overpriced for what we had. The swimming pool was excellent with a huge pool and plenty of sun beds available. Location of hotel is excellent some 10 minutes taxi ride to Alvor that had some superb restaurants and bars, especially suited for our age group with no sign of any hen or stag parties. I would deffinately recommend this hotel for golf groups.

Excellent
10.0

Staff were attentive and friendly. Breakfast choices and Italian restaurant were first class. Make sure you find out which bar is used for the happy hour - 6.15 to 7.15 every evening!

Very Good
8.0

Nicely sighted room but very small- wardrobe was right beside bed - classic problem of no plug near a mirror with a chair for my wife to dry her hair- most hotels fail this test- not possible in the bath room as too steamy after shower. Breakfast reasonable but not 5 star -cold meats poor - pancake maker brilliant. Prices in the bar were very expensive. Championship course is tired and jaded and I guess it’s the time of year but hopelessly busy -waiting every shot - very difficult to play golf like that. €50 for a buggy is a bit of a joke. Resort course was actually more playable but a bit simple. Hotel still has a lovely feeling of luxury about so enjoyed that and wilperhaps return for that but not the Golf.

Excellent
10.0

Excellent
10.0

Resort Course


My caddy tip: "Don't go too long off the first tee. Watch out for the water on the Third.

Stableford score: 34

Handicap: 18

Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - "Bring insect repellent" 


Stableford score - 33

Handicap - 13

Very Good
8.0

Favourite holes - The short holes on the second nine. 


My caddy tip - "Steer well clear of the water particularly on 2nd 9"

Stableford score - 32

Handicap - 

Very Good
8.0

Championship course 


Favourite hole: 5 hole is my favourite a par 5 with a stream diagonally across fairway and a pond front of elevated green. If you are concerned about pond play second shot to right over stream then third easier shot over pond to green.

My caddy tip: "Positioning your shots left or right makes approach to green easier. Trees and water often come into play if you take the wrong line."

Stableford score: 35

Handicap: 18

Resort Course 

My caddy tip "It is a tougher course than you think".

Stableford score: 32

Good
6.0

Course appeared a bit tired - bunkers and greens needed rolling but the holes were very interesting. 

My caddy tip - "Hit more club than you think."

Stableford score - 34

Handicap - 19

Resort course 

The holes are very narrow but overall a relatively simple course. 
 
My caddy tip - "Your ball won't travel as far you expect."

Stableford score - 39 or more.

Handicap - 

Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - "Keep your wits about - keep focused." 


Stableford score - 28 or less. 

Handicap - 36 or more. 

Good
6.0

Championship course 


My caddy tip - "Take a course planner for distances."

Stableford score - 29

Handicap - 25

Resort Course 

Thoroughly enjoyed all the holes. 

Stableford score - 32 

Excellent
10.0

Championship course 


My caddy tip - "Position off the tee is important." 

Stableford score - 34

Handicap - 10 

Resort course 

My caddy tip - "Again quite a few longer holes require precise position off the tee".

Stableford score - 36

Very Good
8.0

Championship course 


Favourite holes - The short holes and the 9th and 18th

My caddy tip - "Pick your tee shots and lines carefully."

Stableford score - 31

Handicap - 15 

Resort course 

My caddy tip - "Don't always use your driver"

Stableford score - 30

Very Good
8.0

Favourite hole - 7th - best to lay up and leave a full wedge or nine iron into the green.


My caddy tip - chose 1 more club.

Stableford score - 39 or more

Handicap - 13

Very Good
8.0

Favourite hole - 18th hole - believe in your game and go for it. 


My caddy tip - "Take plenty of balls". 

Stableford score - 32

Handicap - 21

Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "Keep the ball on the fairway."


Stableford score - 34

Handicap - 

Very Good
8.0

Many large ditches to cross and a large lake but flat. Better for low handicappers.


Handicap - 36 or more. 

Stableford score - 28 or less. 

Very Good
8.0

Championship course 


My caddy tip - "Be prepared to lay up-lots of water about"

Stableford score - 34

Handicap - 15

Resort course 

2nd hole. Positional play from tee needed

My caddy tip - "Think before bombing it off the tee." 

Excellent
10.0

Favourite holes were HOLES 2,9,12,& 18.


My caddy tip - "Think about your next shot."

Stableford score - 36

Handicap -  20

All good rooms, rooms were small compared to modern hotels but all good. 

Very Good
8.0

Favourite hole - Enjoy all the holes, 17th least favourite as it is a long boring slog. 5th most challenging. Take plenty of balls and think your way round.

My caddy tip - "At this time of year always take ore club as no run on the fairways."

Stableford score - 
28 or less.

Handicap - 16

The Hotel 

Very comfortable slightly small room . Service very friendly. Very efficient in restaurants. Breakfasts delicious and room spotless. For a golfer excellent facilities. Courses well looked after and greens fast.very good practice areas.
As winter season no swimming pool and reduced restaurants. Not much for non golfer.

Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - "Plays longer than it looks". 

Stableford score - 
37

Handicap - 19

Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "A ball off the fairway will usually cost you a shot". 

Stableford score - 
39 or more

Handicap - 11

Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "Keep it on the fairway, beware of ditches."

Stableford score - 
34

Handicap - 13

Resort Course

My caddy tip - "Don't underestimate this course".

Stableford score - 
32

Handicap - 

Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "Play sensibly. Think about your tee shots and where you need to hit them."


Stableford score - 36

Handicap - 12

Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - "Know your players capabilities. Some require lay up if not sure of carry."

Stableford score - 35

Handicap - 7

Penina is an excellent colonial style hotel with a fantastic breakfast to start the day. Best on Algarve. Course is good for those walking with a blend of challenging and opportunity holes. 5 mins from Alvor nightlife. Staff are fantastic. 

Good
6.0

My caddy tip - "Keep the ball on the fairway". 


Stableford score - 29 

Handicap - 17

Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - "Keep it on the course".


Stableford score - 33

Handicap - 10

Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - "Don't try the impossible shot."


Stableford score - 28 or less. 

Handicap - 19

Resort Course 

My caddy tip - "Short and straight, if you're in the rough its very hard to find the ball."

Stableford score - 30

Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "Great course, very challenging - take extra club."


Stableford score - 36

Handicap - 12

Excellent
10.0

Favourite hole - 9th hole. 


Stableford score - 32

Handicap - 15



Good
6.0

My caddy tip - "Take one more club".

Stableford score - 
38

Handicap - 18

Good
6.0

My caddy tip - "Keep it on the fairway."

Stableford score - 31

Handicap - 11

Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "Be careful of the water". 


Stableford Score - 29

Handicap - 12

Resort Course 

My caddy tip - "Be ready from the start, hole 1 is a tricky dog leg."

Stableford score - 33


Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "Play to your strengths and use your handicap to help you round this challenging but likeable course."

Stableford score - 
36

Handicap - 17

Excellent
10.0

Every hole is a good golfing hole, take a course planner as positioning is key for the next shot. 

My caddy tip - "Get in position for next shot."

Stableford score - 
33

Handicap - 14

Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "Don't panic". 

Stableford score - 
30

Handicap - 15

Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - "Keep the ball in play off the tee."

Stableford score - 
34

Handicap - 13

Resort Course 

My caddy tip - "Just enjoy and get use to the different types of grass."

Stableford score - 
36


Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "Keep the ball out of the water. Burns/streams are very muddy. Unless you're playing well, lay 


Stableford score - 34

Handicap - 13

Excellent
10.0

Favourite hole - 16

My caddy tip - "Take more club than you think". 

Stableford score - 31

Handicap - 24

Very Good
8.0

Favourite hole - Hole 5, Play tee shot to the right of fairway , avoiding the bunker right which opens up the fairway to play short of the water infrontbof the green for 2 and then play over the water for 3 and try for a birdie . Fun hole !


My caddy tip - "Keep the ball on the fairway"

Stableford - 30 

Handicap - 21

Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - "Bite your lip and take on an iron."

Stableford score - 38

Handicap - 
12

Good
6.0

My caddy tip - "Be patient".

Stableford score - 
39 or more.

Handicap - 17

Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - "Keep it straight."

Stableford score - 35

Handicap - 12



Very Good
8.0

Favourite Hole - I love the 5th because it is so challenging


My caddy tip - "Take plenty of balls."

Stableford score - 31

Handicap - 16

Good
6.0

Favourite hole - 5th hole. 


My caddy tip - "Keep it on the fairway, if not you may not have a shot".

Stableford score - 35

Handicap - 15

Everything in the hotel was very good, all our group enjoyed the trip. 

Good
6.0

My caddy tip - "Trust the yardages". 

Stableford score - 
32

Handicap - Scratch or better. 

Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "Keep your drives straight". 


Stableford score - 32

Handicap - 20

Resort Course 

My caddy tip - "Just enjoy, 17 also plays longer than it looks". 

Stableford score - 31


Excellent
10.0

Favourite hole - All of them 


My caddy tip - "Keep away from the water."

Stableford score - 28 or less 

Handicap - 12

Resort Course 

My caddy tip - "Accuracy off the tee."

Stableford score - 28 or less

Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "There is not a lot of room on the fairways - keep it straight at the expense of some distance"


Stableford score - 32 

Handicap - 23

Very Good
8.0

Favourite hole - 18.


My caddy tip - "Take plenty of balls".

Stableford score - 36

Handicap - 8

Very Good
8.0

Favourite hole - 13th is a superb hole off the back, requires a committed swing to a well guarded green, if you have a stroke use it well.


My caddy tip - "Be patient and wait for your chance to attack."

Stableford score - 38

Handicap - 5

Very Good
8.0

Favourite hole - 9th hole - take another club for the approach to the green.


My caddy tip - "Expect a long round, too many people on the course."

Stableford score - 28 or less 

Handicap - 16

Good
6.0

My caddy tip - "Play within yourself - trouble awaits if you are too ambitious."


Stableford score - 32 

Handicap - 20

Resort course

My caddy tip - "Very  busy so be prepared for a long round."

Stableford score - 30

Good
6.0

Favourite holes - 1st and 18th.


My caddy tip - "Keep the ball straight"

Stableford score - 33

Handicap - 12

Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - Its a long flat course but keep it straight. 

Stableford score - 
30

Handicap - 14

Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "Course management is key and know your yardages."


Stableford score - 33

Handicap - 10

Resort Course 

My caddy tip - "Go by the yardages and then take a club up."

Stableford score - "32"

Excellent
10.0

Favourite hole - 6th hole. 

My caddy tip - "Keep the ball out of the lakes". 

Stableford score - 30. 

Handicap - 22

Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - "Don't feel intimidated, if you think your way round you will record a good score."


Stableford score - 34

Handicap - 4

Resort Course 

My caddy tip - "Don't push too hard, look where you want to put the ball."

Stableford score - 37

Excellent
10.0

The thing I liked about all the holes is that they were all straightforward and visible from the tee. It makes it a lot more enjoyable when you are playing a course for the first time when you don't have to ponder about blind shots. 

My caddy tip - Beware of the small hazard ditches on the first 9. 

Stableford score -
36

Handicap - 4

Excellent
10.0

My caddy tip - "Bring your A game."

Stableford score - 28 or less. 

Handicap - 
15

Excellent
10.0

Favourite hole - 14th, ensure a good drive, lay up and then wedge into the green. 

My caddy tip - "
Never try to over hit shots."

Stableford score - 32

Handicap - 

Resort Course 

Favourite hole - 9th hole, driver and wood are needed.

My caddy tip - "Play within yourself - take 3 wood instead of driver when playing the par 4s and 5s."

Stableford score - 34

Very Good
8.0

Favourite holes - 12 and 16. 


My caddy tip - "Use your handicap shots wisely."

Stableford score - 34

Handicap - 10


Very Good
8.0

My caddy tip - "Keep it in play and take cash for the mobile beer vendor "


Stableford score - 28 or less

Handicap - 20

Excellent
10.0

Hole 12 - Your drive must be straught and take extra club for the second shot otherwise you will be short and in the water. 

My caddy tip - "Go for accuracy rather than distance off the tee." 

Stableford score - 38

Handicap - 
12


Excellent
10.0

Exceptional golfing facility!


My Caddy Tip - "Most greens are subtly built up higher than the fairways, so one more club than your yardage suggests is usually required!"

Stableford Score - 38

Handicap - Scratch or better

Good
6.0

Favourite hole was the 18th. Tips- If you need a buggy book well in advance as they do not usually have enough buggies for everyone. Hotel is good if a little tired in appearance.


My Caddy Tip - "Course management is the key. Play within your ability."

Stableford Score - 30

Handicap - 19

Very Good
8.0

Hotel was very good but the golf course play tends to be very slow.


My Caddy Tip - "Course management is key."

Stableford Score - 34

Handicap - 12

Excellent
10.0

Challenging course and buggies are a must.

Handicap - 18

Excellent
10.0

The 12th on the Championship course off the whites is excellent. The second shot is further than you think. Take one more club!

My Caddy Tip - "Always play within your abilities, don't take chances. Play to were you can see..."

Stableford Score - 38

Handicap - 1

Excellent
10.0

Hotel was good.

My Caddy Tip - "Practice putt first."

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 24

Good
6.0

Old style hotel, no longer 5 star with closed outdoor pool (no indoor pool).


My Caddy Tip - "Beware of stagnant water hazards ."

Stableford Score - 36

Handicap - 16

Excellent
10.0

Good venue.

My Caddy Tip - "Practise putting."

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 10

Excellent
10.0

Hole 12 is one I rarely par. The hotel, with new management, is even better with great staff & varied places to eat.


My Caddy Tip - "You will score better with a game plan."

Stableford Score - 34

Handicap - 13

Very Good
8.0

My party hasn't yet found anywhere to rival the total package at Penina. It's a very good hotel, a very good course on site and a proshop which looks after your clubs and shoes for the whole visit so avoiding the need to lug clubs up to your room. The course has many very good holes that give you options in club selection and risk/reward choices. For me, the 5th, 7th, 9th, 11th, 12th and 18th all challenge golfers over a wide range of abilities. A beer and a sandwich after the round on the beautiful terrace followed perhaps by a dip in the excellent hotel pool will set you up for an evening out in the local village of Alvor where there are a number of good restaurants and bars with live music. Penina is no longer at the fashionable end of courses in the Algarve, but for me it still offers a great venue for an enjoyable few days of golf. 


My Caddy Tip - "Don't be too optimistic in trying to reach some of the greens in 2 unless you are on top of your game. Instead, lay up before the water on the 12th unless you've creamed your drive."

Stableford Score - 34

Handicap - 12

Excellent
10.0

16, 17 and 18 all great finishing holes.


My Caddy Tip - "Keep the ball on the short stuff. You do not always need a driver or need to go for the green on par 5s."

Stableford Score - 30

Handicap - 18

Very Good
8.0

The 18 hole course is superb, the 9 hole is great for a practice round.

My Caddy Tip - "The greens are very fast and it's tough to stop the ball."

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 22

Very Good
8.0

Enjoyed the course, hotel and facilities. Play was occasionally slow on three days due to too many people on the course.

My Caddy Tip - "Take plenty of water, hire a buggy as it's a long day."

Stableford Score - 36

Handicap - 12

Very Good
8.0

Rather a lot of water on the course, so didn't see it at its best. 


My Caddy Tip - "Play the course adjoining the hotel."

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 20

Excellent
10.0

The hotel is 5 star in every sense, as is the main golf course.

Stableford Score - 32

Handicap - 11

Excellent
10.0

Championship Course is fantastic, hotel was lovely, staff were superb and a pretty good value trip too.


My Caddy Tip - "Find the fairway if you want to score - lots of trees and water hazards!"

Stableford Score - 35

Handicap - 3

Excellent
10.0

9th hole was fantastic. Take a course map with you you will find it useful. The hotel was excellent.

My Caddy Tip - "Don't use a driver on 10th."

Stableford Score - 32

Handicap - 22

Very Good
8.0

Very nice place but do take a taxi into Alvor as it is a really nice place with lovely beach, board walks and restaurants.

My Caddy Tip - "Take plenty of balls."

Stableford Score - 33

Handicap - 13

Excellent
10.0

Hotel and food was good. 

Stableford Score - 31

Handicap - 18

Very Good
8.0

Enjoyed the par three holes.

My Caddy Tip - "Take club more than you think."

Handicap - 15

Very Good
8.0

Warm atmosphere, friendly staff, tough but fair course.

My Caddy Tip - "Always take a longer club."

Stableford Score - 30

Handicap - 18

Very Good
8.0

Take enough balls as there is plenty of water and places to lose them. Staff very helpful and happy. 

My Caddy Tip - "Do not over club."

Stableford Score - 31

Handicap - 23

Excellent
10.0

Lovely hotel. If you can afford the upgrade, your room will be facing the swimming pool and golf course, which is a lovely view. Staff were very friendly and the golf course was enjoyable. The hotel has a good standard of restaurants and at the Alvor, the hotel has a section of sunbeds, etc. for people staying at the hotel. If you fancy a night out in the Alvor the taxi is around 10 euros each way.

My Caddy Tip - "Keep it on the fairways."

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 22

Very Good
8.0

Good test of golf and the hotel was excellent. Golf bar and food area shambolic.

My Caddy Tip - "Think your way round, don't boom it. Position is key everywhere."

Stableford Score - 35

Handicap - 3

Excellent
10.0

On the first hole, you need a good straight drive to have any chance of hitting the green in two. Hotel very nice, staff very friendly and helpful.

Handicap - 12

Very Good
8.0

13th hole was a challenging par 3. Unless you're 100% sure you can clear the water, lay it up! Hotel was good apart the fact that there were no balconies for some of the group. Also, the mini bus into Alvor was too small and too limited with times, although I believe this had just changed prior to our arrival. Food was fabulous.

My Caddy Tip - "Make sure you have a trolley as I would hate to carry a bag round here!"

Stableford Score - 29

Handicap - 23

Excellent
10.0

Championship course is a good test of golf and you are punished for not being accurate, but rewarded for finding the fairways! Resort course ok, but not to the same quality. Hotel was good and top quality buffet breakfast.

My Caddy Tip - "You must find the fairways and will be punished if you spend time in the trees!"

Stableford Score - 35

Handicap - 14

Very Good
8.0

Playing the Resort course (9 holes, 18 tees) is a bit easier and buggies were allowed on this course, as oppose to only being allowed on paths as they were on the Championship course. Although we had heavy rain at the start of our week the courses held up quite well.

Stableford Score - 33

Handicap - 21

Very Good
8.0

All good. Leave your clubs with the store staff and they will put them on the buggie each day.

Stableford Score - 32

Handicap - 9

Very Good
8.0

Hotel was first class as ever. Exceptionally busy and course has signs of overplay, particularly the greens.


My Caddy Tip - "Take a ball recovery tool for the water."

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 12

Very Good
8.0

12 and 13th great water holes.

Stableford Score - 32

Handicap - 20

Very Good
8.0

My favourite hole on the course is the 9th. Penina is a course you have to take your time on and not try to many smart shots. The hotel in general is great with good staff, many of which we know having been there for breaks in the past.


My Caddy Tip - "You have to get the ball on the green without a bounce and hit slow approaches to the greens. Lookout for subtle breaks on the greens."

Stableford Score - 37

Handicap - 12

Very Good
8.0

Hotel was good for golfers but not 5*, overall the course was very good.

My Caddy Tip - "Accuracy over length."

Stableford Score - 35

Handicap - 18

Excellent
10.0

I didn't have any favourite holes and just enjoyed playing. Hotel was good. 

Stableford Score - 30

Handicap - 24

Excellent
10.0

Too long ago to remember.

Handicap - 12

Very Good
8.0

Everything went well.

My Caddy Tip - "Make sure you avoid the water."

Stableford Score - 31

Handicap - 13

Excellent
10.0

Hotel great. Service very good and staff friendly. Breakfast excellent.

My Caddy Tip - "Just play your own game. Enjoy it all and lay up at some holes."

Stableford Score - 36

Handicap - 23

Very Good
8.0

Always use a bigger club than you think. Like all the par 3's. Perfect hotel for golfer, no travelling to the course, hotel food always good. In fact our favourite place in Europe. 

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 19

Very Good
8.0

Hotel was fantastic, food and service great. Enjoyed the Championship golf course but the Resort Course was not in great condition.

My Caddy Tip - "Don't use driver often and try to keep the ball on the fairways as they are tree lined, so tight."

Stableford Score - 37

Handicap - 2

Good
6.0

Nice hotel and you can great great views if you're lucky enough to get a room overlooking the golf course. Seems to be living a little on past history and needs to be brought up to date. Rooms dated & in need of redecorating. Breakfast was ok but not with lots of choice. The main meal was ok, but very limited. Golf course great and in good condition bearing in mind the amount of traffic. Staff very good and always ready to help. Area around the hotel very nice & relaxing.

My Caddy Tip - "Course management is a must. Greens have very subtle breaks you cant always read, so don't just grip & rip."

Stableford Score - 39 or more

Handicap - 5

Very Good
8.0

A good resort course, a short taxi ride from the nearby town.

My Caddy Tip - "Keep it on the fairway."

Stableford Score - 34

Handicap - 12

Excellent
10.0

Great course, superb sand in bunkers and a great pro on site.

My Caddy Tip - "Better to take a long iron or 3/5 wood off the tee than a driver."

Stableford Score - 35

Handicap - 15

Very Good
8.0

Classic designed course, pretty tight in parts with tree lined fairways.

My Caddy Tip - "Keep it on the fairway."

Stableford Score - 30

Handicap - 16

Average
4.0

The course was in a tired and poor condition when I played it in 2011, Hotel was- fine 3.5 stars 

Stableford Score - 37

Handicap - 14

Excellent
10.0

Second, twelfth and thirteenth were all excellent! Usually take one more club as greens tend to be slightly raised.

My Caddy Tip - "On the second hole, unless you are past the 150 metre post, do not go for the green."

Stableford Score - 38

Handicap - 10

Excellent
10.0

12 was an excellent hole. I would look at the hole layouts carefully. Very good trip.

My Caddy Tip - "Greens are fast."

Stableford Score - 30

Handicap - 21

Excellent
10.0

No particular favourite hole, liked them all.

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 34

Very Good
8.0

The course is a bit untidy and needs more love.

Stableford Score - 38

Handicap - 7

Excellent
10.0

Favourite hole was the 16th. Take at least one club more. The hotel is what you pay for with a smile.

My Caddy Tip - "I would use a driver on ten and the greens are fair."

Stableford Score - 37

Handicap - 14

Excellent
10.0

The 5th hole par 5 is my favourite and the positioning of the drive and the second are critical if you are to get on green. Water in play diagonally across fairway and large pond in front of green. Smart play is to play right on the second shot, giving an easier third pitch to the green. 

My Caddy Tip - "Think about club selection to give optimum position and distance from trouble, allowing for a shot to the green."

Stableford Score - 30

Handicap - 18

Excellent
10.0

10th hole was always challenging but very rewarding if you par it. My husband and I think it is one of the best courses we have played on, no matter how many times we have been there. Every time you play there, there is always something different about each hole on the course. Hotel, accommodation, food and service all first class. We always enjoy having a room facing the course, as to look over the course in the morning the view is outstanding. Well done Penina for keeping up your standards.

My Caddy Tip - "Make sure you go to the range first and practise but leave enough time to practise your chipping on the green."

Stableford Score - 33

Handicap - 25

Very Good
8.0

Hotel was comfortable. Breakfasts were very good. Probably a good idea to pay extra for a room overlooking the course. 

My Caddy Tip - "Course fairly straightforward. No major advice needed."

Stableford Score - 33

Handicap - 5

Excellent
10.0

The courses were nice, and the hotel looked after us very well.

Handicap - 18

Excellent
10.0

The 9th was my favourite hole.

My Caddy Tip - "Go to the range before you start."

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 14

Very Good
8.0

My Caddy Tip - "Just enjoy it."

Stableford Score - 39 or more

Handicap - 8

Average
4.0

Go in winter when much of the rooms are closed. Staff have more time, and course in better condition

Stableford Score - 22

Handicap - 30

Excellent
10.0

Lots of great holes and a good test for low and high handicap golfers. My favourite hole is the 18th, a good par 5 with the hotel in the background.

My Caddy Tip - "Stay in the fairway, play conservative and remember the greens are very true."

Stableford Score - 34

Handicap - 18

Very Good
8.0

A number of good holes, like the second. Hotel nice and traditional with good service.

My Caddy Tip - "Keep patient and straight from the tee!"

Stableford Score - 37

Handicap - 16

Excellent
10.0

Hotel is great. Course is lovely.

My Caddy Tip - "Stay straight and don't be too aggressive on the water holes."

Stableford Score - 32

Handicap - 13

Very Good
8.0

Hotel is great but only has an outdoor pool. Great views of the course from rooms at back of property. A longish walk into Alvor but taxis were reasonable.

My Caddy Tip - "Always select the shot that keeps it on the fairway."

Handicap - 18

Very Good
8.0

Great if you want to be based in one location. Course was in really good condition. Hotel clean and tidy. We were on bed and breakfast basis which was excellent. However, the resort prices for food and drink outside of the package were a bit steep. Most nights we caught a taxi to Alvor and dined there, where the meals are better value.

My Caddy Tip - "Use the great practice facilities to warm up before your round."

Stableford Score - 36

Handicap - 12

Excellent
10.0

Fabulous, old style 5* hotel with great food. Enjoyable course.

My Caddy Tip - "Some greens need all of your attention before you putt, be sure and check the line."

Stableford Score - 33

Handicap - 18

Very Good
8.0

The hotel offered a variety of dining options, relaxation options, beautiful surroundings and golf all within easy walking distance. Challenging holes across the water.

Stableford Score - 32

Handicap - 25

Average
4.0

The courses were in poor condition and the greens had pitch marks on. The rooms were small but breakfast was good. Evening meal and buffet were poor. However, the staff were very friendly.

My Caddy Tip - "Lay up on occasion."

Stableford Score - 37 points

Handicap - 5

Poor
2.0

Stableford Score - 30 points

Handicap - scratch or better

Excellent
10.0

Wonderful hotel specifically tailor made for golfers. The hotel staff were superb...a great feature. The golf course was in excellent condition for November after torrential rain. A brilliant destination!

My Caddy Tip - "Use irons until you get used to the ditches and distances to lay up"

Stableford Score - 37 points

Handicap - 12

Excellent
10.0

Favourite holes were 2 and 13. The hotel was good as ever, not the cheapest, but quality is excellent, especially in The Grill.

My Caddy Tip - "Take 2 extra clubs on most approach shots."

Stableford Score - 33 points

Handicap - 10

Very Good
8.0

I marked it a 4 because the course was wet because of the very wet weather. Also, there was a very noisy group of men who spoilt the atmosphere, the staff really struggled to shut them up.

My Caddy Tip - "Go for it!"

Stableford Score - 35

Handicap - 18

Excellent
10.0

Nice hotel, excellent restaurants, friendly staff.

My Caddy Tip - "Don't be short on your approach shots"

Stableford Score - 31

Handicap - 21

Good
6.0

On 13 you must commit to your shot.

My Caddy Tip - "18 plays as a par 5 so don't go for green with 2nd shot. It plays 40 yards longer than yardage."

Stableford Score - 38

Handicap - 10

Excellent
10.0

Par 3s excellent. Food was great. Location was very good and close to alvor which has some great restaurants very reasonable priced.

My Caddy Tip - "Greens are tricky but I enjoyed the golf"

Stableford Score - 39 or more points

Handicap - 12

Excellent
10.0

The Acadamy course was always free and good for practice. The Championship course was in superb condition.

My Caddy Tip - "Stay straight!"

Stableford Score - 33

Handicap - 16

Very Good
8.0

My Caddy Tip - "Buy your water and Mars bars before you play. Prices on the course are a rip off."

Stableford Score - 30 points

Handicap - 13

Very Good
8.0

Best hole was stroke index 1. Hotel was everything you wanted and within a short distance of Alvor, Praia de Rocha and other resorts.

My Caddy Tip - "Think about the hole, don't try for the Hollywood shot as it will bite you if you get it wrong."

Stableford Score - 37 points

Handicap - 5

Average
4.0

Hotel was an enjoyable traditional Spanish one, which helped us enjoy the break.

Handicap - 2

Excellent
10.0

The course was challenging enough especially the Resort shorter one.

Handicap - 13

Very Good
8.0

Main course very good. Great evening meals in the traditional restaurant 

Handicap - 20

Very Good
8.0

Hotel was excellent but need a room overlooking course and gardens. Had to ask to change rooms as we were at front and had no view and traffic noise. We upgraded to a fabulous room at back of hotel. Beds really comfortable. Staff lovely and golf well organised. Pro shop very helpful. Wished we had dined in the a la carte restaurant more than once. We had a wonderful meal on our last evening. Staff really really lovely. Pity the courtesy bus to alvor was not operating at this time of year (October) 

My Caddy Tip - "Lay up."

Stableford Score - 34

Handicap - 17

Excellent
10.0

Very challenging course for most golfers but fair with no blind shots. Greens where in very good condition.  

Stableford Score - 33

Handicap - 10

Good
6.0

The course was slightly disappointing having had some high expectations. Although the holes were well designed and interesting it was a bit scruffy when billed as a championship course. I have played many better courses in the algarve. Having said that, the hotel was well situated, the rooms decent and the staff were friendly. A good base and we played Palmares on the coast which was excellent. 

My Caddy Tip - "Stay straight and don't be too aggressive on the water holes."

Stableford Score - 35

Handicap - 7

Excellent
10.0

You will never find balls in water, so bring plenty!!! 

My Caddy Tip - "Play one club more than usual."

Stableford Score - 36

Handicap - 5

Average
4.0

Stableford Score - 34

Handicap - 2

Excellent
10.0

We first went to Penina the year after we went to Mauritius (Belle Mare Plage). Better than Mauritius and a lot quicker to get to too.

My Caddy Tip - "Be accurate or take lots of balls, not a long course off the yellows but play steady."

Stableford Score - 33

Handicap - 18

Excellent
10.0

We have been to Penina several times in the past, and have always found it to be one of the best golf courses in Portugal. The hotel is efficiently run, the staff are very friendly and helpful, the food exceptional, and the hotel itself very clean. We find playing a couple of days on the Resort Course, in between challenging golf on the Championship course, quite relaxing. 

My Caddy Tip - "Try to get an early tee-time."

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 27

Good
6.0

Just a great course and hotel. Poor behaviour by some English golfers. It had rained heavily in the morning and tees were doubled on the back nine. The English chaps behind could not work this out and were very abusive. I would not go again. Special occasion too for my wife.

My Caddy Tip - "Go for it!"

Stableford Score - 33

Handicap - 14

Excellent
10.0

Stroke index 1 was a brilliant golf hole.

My Caddy Tip - "Keep it straight."

Stableford Score - 30 points

Handicap - 9

Excellent
10.0

Love the hotel, especially that it is right at the course. The Resort course is worth a visit. The 9th is my favourite hole on the BIG course! The staff are very helpful both in the Pro Shop and in the hotel. Rooms are a little small but for 3 days they are fine. A wonderful 3 day venue.

My Caddy Tip - "Lake on 12 is quite wide - lay up"

Stableford Score - 33

Handicap - 12

Excellent
10.0

Stableford Score - 34 points

Handicap - 13

Very Good
8.0

Hotel was superb.

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 27

Excellent
10.0

A lot of ditches with muddy water - lay up or be confident that you can carry the hazard. Hotel being on site was excellent.

My Caddy Tip - "Play your normal game. Know the distance you hit the ball with each club."

Stableford Score - 35

Handicap - 12

Very Good
8.0

My Caddy Tip - "Keep it on the fairway."

Stableford Score - 33

Handicap - 11

Very Good
8.0

Great service in hotel for golfers (cleaned shoes, brought clubs out for us), choice of two courses - one easier, one championship. It was difficult to remember the holes from 4 years ago, but I nearly got a hole in one on a par 3 and just missed a trip to Las Vegas!

My Caddy Tip - "Tricky water hazards on some holes, so lay up if you're not sure of carrying it."

Stableford Score - 28 or less

Handicap - 21

Excellent
10.0

The famous 17th was great!

Stableford Score - 37

Handicap - 12

Good
6.0

The hotel was very nice, with a decent room. The restaurant for evening meals was excellent, as were the lunches and snacks in the clubhouse. The staff in the hotel, in the pro shop and on the course were generally very friendly. There was only one sour note of being told to hurry up by a marshal on the course, when we were being held up by two guys who we'd been paired up with by the start marshal. If possible, I would go as a group of four so as not to be paired up like this. As far as the courses are concerned, there was really only one when we went in March/April because of water lying on the fairways. It's cheaper, but it really doesn't stack up against the quantity and quality of Vilamoura courses, the only other Portuguese venue we've tried. 

Handicap - 24

Very Good
8.0

Don't be too ambitious.

My Caddy Tip - "Lay up if you're not confident of your distance."

Handicap - 23

Excellent
10.0

13th was a brilliant hole- par 3 over water.

My Caddy Tip - "Play plenty of club"

Stableford Score - 34

Handicap - 8

Very Good
8.0

We really enjoyed the course. It was in great condition particularly for a resort course, the greens were excellent and the pace of play was never too slow.

The staff were very welcoming as they are in the hotel generally. The club house bar is nice but usually very quiet with little atmosphere. This is simply a result of the fact that it is part of the hotel and most of the residents who play go to other parts of the hotel/ pool once they finish playing.

The hotel rooms were good and well furnished. The hotel in general had a nice family feel.

We would definitely return and I would rate it as 4/5 as a golfing holiday.

Excellent
10.0

Our trip to Penina was one of the best we have had as a group abroad. The facilities of the hotel were far better than expected with an impressive entrance leading into a cool, quiet reception and lounge area then into the gardens with views over the course and a very large swimming pool.

The bar was well stocked with refreshing beer and had large screen TVs for après golf entertainment.

At breakfast there was a very good selection of cereals, fruits, meats and fresh omelettes made to order which set you up for the day perfectly.

The members of staff were extremely helpful and friendly at all times.

The Championship Course is a test for most where positioning your tee shot well helps considerably with your approach to the very well kept greens. Being slightly offline was punishing and safety was the order of the day.

Overall the experience of playing both the Academy and Championship courses was a very good one and one that we hope to revisit again soon.

Very Good
8.0

The Championship Course at Penina was in good condition and the other golf facilities, putting greens and practice areas etc were very good too.

Members of staff are excellent, as are the food, service and rooms.

After golf service is good too as is the swimming pool. The only drawback is that the course is very busy. We have been at Penina during different times of the year but as yet, we’ve not found a quiet time.

Having said that, we are planning to go back in September / October next year hoping it will be less busy.

Excellent
10.0

My wife and I have visited Penina many times. The Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course is a stern challenge for golfers of all abilities and the lower the golfer's handicap the more the inclination to "take on" the challenge. Some courses suit players with a fade or a draw but Penina incorporates it all and we will be back.

We truly look forward to staying in the hotel which is of the highest quality. Room number 361 is our room of choice! My wife loves the pool which at one time was the largest in the Algarve. The buffet breakfast is unsurpassed too, particularly the omelettes which are cooked to order.

We enjoy relaxing in the bar after dinner, especially when Elvis puts in an appearance!

Upstairs in the sports bar is the place to be when following the European Tour as there is a great international atmosphere.

Excellent
10.0

The quality of the championship course at Penina was very good, as were the practise facilities, but the resort course could do with some TLC. The 19th hole was very good too, with first class service, as you would expect of Penina.

The hotel itself was excellent, with a wonderful buffet breakfasts and evening meals at the poolside that are not to be missed.

Overall I would rate our mini break 5 out 5 and would love to return to Penina next year.

Very Good
8.0

The Championship Course at Penina is a good test of golf for all handicaps. It’s an interesting layout and in excellent condition, especially the greens.

The Resort Course has some interesting holes too, but is in poor condition, has no starter and tends to be overcrowded.

The clubhouse is very welcoming though, with a friendly atmosphere and extremely helpful staff.

The hotel is 5 star in all respects. The rooms, whilst being very well appointed, are a little on the small side.

We would return to this venue for say a 3/4 day break to play the Championship Course and would give it an overall rating of 4 out of 5.

Excellent
10.0

The Championship Course at Penina is a great layout and a true test of all golfing abilities. If you are on your game you can score well so the course is very fair. I have always felt that Penina was among the best golf courses on the Algarve,  if not Europe; a great design overall and in particular, the par 5's and the par 3 early in the back nine (the 12th I think) which rates as one of the very best short holes I’ve played.

The condition of the course was first class too and the greens were in great condition; quick and true. It was good to see lots of staff on the course, working away.

I've stayed at the hotel many times and always found the service and quality provided first class in all areas. The food is great (upgrade to al la carte for a real treat) and the atmosphere is friendly, staff are helpful and in keeping with the 5 star rating.

Since the hotel’s upgrade, the rooms have been returned to the original high standard.

Our overall verdict would be 5 out of 5. I'm a real fan of the whole place and I think it offers probably the best value for money in the Algarve as an overall golf break destination. Great golf, great food, great service....at an unbeatable price! I would (and do!) return...very often.

Very Good
8.0

Golf Course – Challenging for all categories of handicaps and always in good condition.

19th Hole - A friendly atmosphere and a delight to sit out in the sun after an enjoyable round.

Hotel - Our room was clean and comfortable. Breakfast was excellent and beautifully presented. The whole facility catered extremely well for the golfing customer.

Very Good
8.0

Although we booked Penina as an all in golf package for two of us, my wife is not a golfer so I only played a couple of times in the week, although I could have played as often as I wished.

We think your golf packages are so well priced it is nice to just use them for a holiday and maybe play a bit of golf as an extra.

The Championship course was very good but too difficult and long for me on an 18 handicap.

The Resort course suited me better, although not a championship course more of a family holiday course and fun.

The 19th hole is very good and the hotel almost top quality.

4.5 out of 5!

Excellent
10.0

It goes without saying that the layout and design of the Championship Course at Penina is superb. When we played, even though there had been plenty of rain, the course held up very well.

As far as the clubhouse goes, from the Henry Cotton bar for a drink after our round to the restaurant in the evening, the staff are always excellent. 

Since the hotel was updated, the rooms are back to their best. The breakfasts are the best in the Algarve without question.

The Caddy Master as always was very attentive, with storage of clubs and daily cleaning of shoes being a very useful service. The bonus in the evenings was the snooker table in the hotel lounge, which makes for some great memories. 

Our overall verdict would be 5 out of 5 all day long. Would we return? We WILL return!

Very Good
8.0

Penina is a lovely golf course with a great variety of holes to challenge your golf skills. There is a lovely clubhouse too where you can have a relaxing drink or get something to eat after your game.

The hotel is lovely, with good facilities and spacious rooms that are spotlessly clean. I have been to Penina a few times now and would highly recommend it to anyone as I would rate it 5 out of 5 and wouldn't hesitate about returning there.

Excellent
10.0

Penina Golf Resort is the best resort on the Algarve. The Championship Course is second to none and you’re treated like royalty in the hotel. The food in the clubhouse as well as the main hotel restaurant is great too. What more could you ask for?

Excellent
10.0

Penina has a very nice hotel with 2 golf courses on-site; the 18 hole Championship course and the 9 hole Resort course.

The championship course is a must play course, with the Resort course a welcome break in a week's worth of golf. Both courses are a challenge in their own right. I would recommend purchasing a stroke saver to find where the hazards are on the courses, as some are devilishly hidden from view...or was that me being out of position?!

The 19th hole – the Sir Henry Cotton Bar – serves good grub and is a welcoming place for a pint or 2.

Practice facilities include an excellent driving range, a chipping area and a putting green with a teaching academy also available if needed.

In terms of accommodation, I would recommend the pool view option as this side gets the sun all day long; the non pool view option faces the road and although it is not noisy, it does not benefit from the sunny aspect of this 5 star hotel.

The breakfasts are all you could wish for, and evening meals, whilst not cheap, are up to the 5 star billing.

Members of staff are excellent; all fluent in English as well as other languages. Golf clubs are secured in the pro-shop over night and brought out for your round along with your daily polished shoes; I like being spoilt this well!

Excellent
10.0

This hotel is one of my favourite places in the world!

The Championship Course is well designed and extremely well looked after and the same can be said of the Resort Course.

The rooms in the hotel are very nice too. We like the Studio rooms but overall would say they could have been designed a little better.

The food is excellent and members of staff are superb. 

My overall rating? 5 out of 5.

Excellent
10.0

At the time of travel the course at Penina was in excellent condition. I had heard mixed reports before we (my wife and myself) had travelled but we could find no faults whatsoever. The course was well marshalled too so play was kept moving as best as possible. We thought that course has a good layout and as we prefer to walk rather than use buggies, the relative flatness meant this was no bother.

The service in the golf shop was excellent with very friendly staff. They were accommodating if we wanted to adjust our tee times where possible and our clubs were looked after the whole time and golf shoes cleaned after each round.

Service at 19th was also excellent and we were given complimentary nuts and olives each evening. Atmosphere was good but fairly quiet, with the crowd consisting really only of golfers who had just finished their rounds.

We found the hotel to be excellent. We had a room with a pool view which I think makes a major difference. The breakfast was really excellent and could set you up for the whole day!

Hotel drinks and meals could be regarded as pricey so we had most evening meals in nearby Alvor but always had a couple of drinks at the hotel on returning each evening.

I would rate our trip as a 5 out of 5. We have already booked through yourgolftravel to return to Penina again next year and we hope to find everything as good as this year.

Excellent
10.0

Penina is an excellent and challenging course with good features on many holes; never can it be said that it is a boring course. The 9 hole second course is excellent too.

The clubhouse is nicely placed after the 18th hole. It is also just for hotel guests and is not therefore a normal stud bar. I've always enjoyed a snack there outside after my rounds.

Changing facilities are small but adequate in that most of the golfers will be staying at the hotel. 

The hotel itself has really good rooms and I would say no difference between the rooms with or without a mountain view.

Overall I’d rate Penins as 5 out of 5. I have been back many times and look forward to the next trip there.

Excellent
10.0

Penina enjoys a wonderful course layout. It is a true classic being a Henry Cotton design and a very good test of golf.

The hotel is very accommodating with the staff being very friendly and approachable. The breakfast is an excellent start to the day and gets you in the right mood. It was great to finish the round and then sit outside on the patio area and relax with a few drinks too.

Overall I would rate the course and hotel 5 out of 5 and will definitely return in the near future.

Excellent
10.0

Penina was a superb resort for golf holiday.

We were very well looked after from our arrival through to our departure. The Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course was a very good test for all members of our group, with handicappers ranging from 8 to 28. Considering how busy the course was it was in very good condition. We had 2 rounds on this course and 2 on the 9 hole Resort Course which we found a good test as well.

The hotel rooms we had were spotlessly clean and the housekeepers kept it that way with daily visits. The food at the Penina Resort was first class too, with numerous bars and restaurants to eat from.

We also took full advantage of the huge swimming pool every day.

We will definitely be booking again through YGT, and will hopefully return in 2015.

Very Good
8.0

The Penina Golf Resort (which is less than an hour's drive from Faro airport) offers a very stylish place to stay, together with some excellent golf on site. The small coastal town of Alvor (10 minutes drive from the hotel) is a delight to visit, offering a huge range of places to eat and also a long stretch of sandy beach. The Golf Resort is conveniently situated, less than one kilometre from the nearest junction on the A22 motorway.

Penina's 'Resort Course' offers a decent golfing challenge (albeit going twice around a 9-hole course but with slightly different tee positions) and a helpful preparation for the tougher demands of the Championship Course, which is the oldest golf course in the Algarve.

The holes on the Championship Course are generally quite long and many of them have watery obstacles in the shape of drainage channels of varying widths, as well as some sizeable ponds. As befits a course that has hosted the Portugal Masters on a number of occasions, the Championship Course provides golfers with a good mixture of enjoyment and technical challenge. 

The standard of service in the hotel is excellent in all departments. Prices for food and drinks are typical of a resort of this standard - but arguably the comfortable facilities and panoramic outlook over the Championship Course make them worthwhile. We found that the hotel was welcoming, and the bars & restaurants had a lively atmosphere that catered well for groups and for individuals and families alike.

Our only suggestion for improvement at Penina is to ensure that golfers have sufficient ability (e.g. as shown in a handicap certificate) to play the Championship Course without undue delay. We did see staff (in buggies) monitoring the speed of play but it was not clear that they were actually taking any enforcement action. As a result, times of more than 5 hours to complete a round were not uncommon.

Our only previous experience with YGT was at La Cala last year. Comparing La Cala and Penina, we feel that Penina's hotel has a livelier & friendlier atmosphere, while La Cala offers more in the way of golfing challenges.

However, the fact that Penina seems keen to include visitors in club competitions in future may help to tip the 'golfing balance' towards Penina.

We have had good service from YGT last year and this year and we would be happy to recommend you guys to others.

Good
6.0

A group of 10 friends made our second visit to Penina in early October 2014.

We had been to this resort 3 years ago and came away with some great memories of the course and hotel, but this time we were left somewhat disappointed.

Although the Championship course is still just as interesting, it was not as enjoyable to play because the condition had deteriorated somewhat, in particular the greens.

We also played the Resort course this time around but I can only describe it as average at best.

The hotel itself was of a good standard, with the only usual gripe being the overpriced drinks. With this in mind we made full use of the 2 for 1 happy hour before moving on into Alvor each night.

Three years ago I would have given a 4 out of 5 rating - this year, at a push I can only give it a 3 out of 5.

Excellent
10.0

The course at Penina was excellent – not too difficult but a realistic challenge for all.

The clubhouse was very good too, with excellent, helpful staff.

The hotel was very good – it’s a pity we didn’t have a sea view!

Overall our verdict would be a 4.5 out of 5...there’s always room for improvement!

Very Good
8.0

Myself and three friends rated Penina very highly. The course was in great condition; well cared for even though it had plenty of rain on it that week. Lucky for us we didn't get wet; only in the 19th did we manage that! It was a course that even with a high handicap or off scratch you could enjoy. The 19th hole? Well... great atmosphere, very good service and beer chilled to perfection. I must mention the proshop too who looked after us very well seeing to our clubs and shoes after every round.

We stayed on a B&B basis and what a breakfast; I can't think of anything that was not there for us!

Admittedly the hotel room was a little dated but clean with good facilities and a very good maid service.

Would we play here again? We normally try a different course every time we go to Portugal but overall Penina as won all of us over so 2015 could see us back playing & staying at this fantastic resort.

Very Good
8.0

Last year, in the spring, I travelled to Penina with two pals for a short golf break with Your Golf Travel.

We stayed 4 nights, had 9 holes on the Academy course on our day of arrival, and 3 rounds on the championship course on subsequent days.

The hotel is great for golfers. The rooms were fine, food was excellent and the bar was more like a clubhouse than a hotel. Even more like a club was the Pro Shop come caddie master sited at the end of the building as you exit to walk round to the first tee. They kept our clubs in a room adjacent and all was ready each day as we went down for our tee time. Very slick and customer friendly, even a shoe shine for your golf shoes was available in the locker rooms.

The Championship Course is excellent, and being almost totally flat ground, it makes for very easy walking. It offers a very good test of golf and is in very good condition, with a good variety of holes. The Academy 9 hole course was in not such excellent condition but nonetheless it was the ideal warm up prior to taking on the big course.

Penina's only fault might also be its biggest plus point. It is quite old fashioned in its architecture, decor and standards, on and off the course. As Henry Cotton’s creation, perhaps that’s not a surprise and, to be honest, this suited us. As middle aged Scots golfers we were there for the golf, a wee drink or two and a decent evening dinner and bottle of wine.

Being a little away from any local large town we elected to remain in the resort throughout, perhaps the more adventurous could taxi it to Portimao of an evening if that was your thing.

Overall there is much to like and enjoy at Penina and we found it good value for money.

Very Good
8.0

The Championship Course at Penina was excellent and with 2 Par 5's to finish, a good score is still possible right to the death. The Resort Course (the 9 hole course) is very poor in comparison to most of the courses on The Algarve.

The clubhouse offered a good selection of food and drink in a very pleasant setting, both inside and outside. The staff members are also very obliging.

The hotel rooms have been fully refurbished, however they are rather small compared to more modern hotels. The rooms with balconies overlooking the gardens and course are well worth paying that little bit extra for.

The breakfasts are dinners at the hotel are exceptional, with numerous bars and restaurants on-site from which to choose which will suit all tastes of cuisine.

Overall verdict? It must be a 5 out of 5 and I would personally vote it a 5++ if that was possible! We would readily return to Penina again, but only to play The Championship Course.

Excellent
10.0

The Championship Course layout is very good at Penina. It’s very testing and was in fantastic condition. The clubhouse staff were excellent and were there to answer and deal with all our needs, all of which was done with a smile on their face...nothing was too much trouble for them.

The hotel is 5 star, and the services and staff are fantastic. We’d rate our trip as 5 out of 5 most definitely and we will return to Penina in the future.

Very Good
8.0

We had an excellent week at Penina.

We found the championship course challenging and with so many hidden water hazards, there were many balls lost! It was in very good condition and interesting to play.

The club house was great too. Our clubs were stored over night and ready for our tee times in the morning. All members of staff were friendly and helpful.

The hotel was very comfortable. Its traditional style made it spacious and large public rooms easily accommodated the large number of guests.

My only small criticism is that there was no free bottled drinking water in the rooms and to buy a small bottle was 2€50.

We would choose a different resort next time simply for a change of area and golf course.

Excellent
10.0

We stayed at the Penina Golf Resort in February and the weather was sunny and warm. This time of year must be taken into consideration in our review.

The Championship course was in good condition and well looked after. It was as difficult a course as you would like it to be. My wife and I are high handicap players so just playing here was special without trying to beat it. Long hitters will do well here.

The resort course is also quite long for a 9 hole. Not as pristine but every bit as enjoyable as the main event. There are some tricky holes. Refreshment buggies go round both so if you need a snack or drink it's available.

The nineteenth hole was all you need before and after a round, with friendly staff and a large choice on the menu. We used it often as it was very comfortable. 

The hotel itself is not new but well looked after. We upgraded to a front room overlooking the pool, on the sunny side of the hotel. Like in the clubhouse, the staff in the hotel are very friendly. The food and drink was a little expensive, as you would expect, however it’s well worth every penny considering how well everything is run.

We give the resort an overall mark of 5 because it offers everything we need from a golf holiday. We’ve already booked another fortnight at Penina next February!

Excellent
10.0

We've stayed at Penina a dozen or more times and despite our expectations getting higher each time, the hotel, golf course and staff have never failed to exceed them.

The hotel is very traditional, nicely presented and the staff have an uncanny knack of knowing how formal or informal they need to be when in conversation.

The golf course is wonderful and a challenge for all levels of golfers without being too ridiculous. You will certainly want to come back for more once you've played it.

We’d recommend hiring a car as despite everything you need being in the hotel complex, doing so allows you to explore the east and west regions of the Algarve, as well as further inland which is far less touristy.

We’ll be there again next Spring.

7.4
Good
341 reviews
Condition overall 6.6
Condition of greens 7.4
Speed of round About right
Value for money 7.2
Facilities 7.2
Difficulty Average
These reviews are from verified Your Golf Travel customers.

Good
6.0

A few of the Group had played here before. The course itself is a good layout offering both tricky and forgiving holes. The issue was that the Course is very tired. Broken Fences, cut down Foliage left strewn everywhere, signs and Course information broken and/or incomplete. For the guys that had played here before they were a bit gutted as to how tired it was.

Excellent
10.0

Good challenge and fairways weren’t brilliant greens poor due to recent poor weather

Good
6.0

Not in the best condition but ok

Very Good
8.0

Considering the rain they had the course was not too bad

Poor
2.0

This course was not in the best of condition. While I accept the wild animal damage is a AOG not being advised on the course condition by the resort and YGT was an oversight. Would seriously reconsider offering this course as part of YGT offering. (Yes, YGT has made the right decision and offered compensation that reflects well on YGT. But the Resort response we less than what I would expect from a golf resort so I will not return and would not recommend to anyone else.

Good
6.0

Bunkers do not reflect the status of this course. Had similar feed back from a PGA Pro about 3 weeks later. Think that validates my comment on the condition of the bunkers,

Very Good
8.0

Penina looks tired everywhere. It's a pity since it's such a great course which makes you think your way round.

Very Good
8.0

Poor
2.0

Very disappointed with this course. Appears to have been neglected as on the other side of the road.Fairways were long in places.They had also been victim of the Wild Boars that had dug up the course on 6 of the 9 holes Basically looked like a bombsite.Fully understand the green fee was low.But not the standard expected to be offered by the Golf company.(Unless you were unaware.)

Excellent
10.0

The main Course was as expected, long and you need to be straight. The Greens were in good condition and you were rewarded with good shots.

Excellent
10.0

Really nice some holes very challenging plays long

Excellent
10.0

A lovely flat course, playable and not massively difficult. Well marshalled from the start ensuring steady rounds for all players. Greens, fairways and tee boxes all watered. Unfortunately there was no water in the ball cleaners. Our party of 4 really enjoyed playing this course. Buggy hire seemed expensive, electric and push trollies available at a cost. No halfway house for water bottle refills. I’d give it a 8.5/10.

Good
6.0

We found this course, apart from the greens, in generally a poor and in an uncared for condition. The wild boar had been on some of the fairways and run rampant. The tee boxes were of poor condition. As a consequence, this course was overpriced and rather disappointing. I’d give it a 5/10

Good
6.0

The course was in good condition. It was a nice course with some challenging holes. Basic things like having the ball cleaners filled with water were missing but generally pretty nice.

Very Good
8.0

5 long par fives. Needs straight hitting

Very Good
8.0

Penina lives off its history potentially the best course we played but it just needs a big tidy up the paths rough unkempt and changing facilities very outdated but again it has slightly improved since our last visit

Average
4.0

We played 4 rounds over 7 days and were told there was a beer cart we only got this service on one day. The tee boxes and fairways were in good condition and the greens are soft and most approach shots plug and stop very quickly. The bunkers were terrible throughout the course, being very hard with little to no sand in most. Unfortunately some of the greens have bare areas and some disease. Off the fairways there are many bare areas with limited to no vegetation. The steams and lakes around the course need to be cleaned out as the water is very dark and muddy. Despite all of the above I still like the hotel and it’s likely I will return again. The complex would benefit greatly from major investment.

Very Good
8.0

Good course with some interesting holes and in decent condition

Poor
2.0

Not a good course. Appeared like giant moles lived on the fairways. Not been looked after for a long time and we'd advise everyone to avoid it.

Very Good
8.0

Course has recovered well over last two years. fairways are back to normal, greens a bit patchy and spongy. It’s a great layout.

Very Good
8.0

The resort is an older golf course. The resort is well kept, the food was good and service was great at the restaurant. The pace of play was good. The driving range was in bad shape and not well maintained. Of the four courses we played I would rate this third or fourth.

Very Good
8.0

Decent course but needs a little money spent on it nice to play for the history of course but better courses to play for the money

Very Good
8.0

The course was nice. You could see the Championship course gets more attention but it was a pleasant round. Greens once again were ok considering the lack of rain. Just a thought,maybe have a practice area by the course,rather then rely on using the Championship facilities.

Excellent
10.0

We played it twice,a day apart. Very quiet which was perfect,as my son and his mate could take their time. The pro shop were great and considering how dry it's been the course looked and played well.

Very Good
8.0

Fairways very patchy and preferred lies were in operation 5 1/2 hours for round very slow

Very Good
8.0

Average
4.0

We played 9 holes the day we arrived and upgraded to play Sir Henry Cotton a third time instead of playing here. Condition of the course was disappointing with 3 greens closed and generally poorly maintained. There weren’t many people playing the course during our stay and you’re better off using the driving range and two putting greens if you want to practice before playing SHC. Apparently the course has been sold so hopefully improvements will be made. Not worth spending your time on here in its current state.

Excellent
10.0

Some very challenging holes with water protecting a few greens. Quite a few narrow fairways to hit and also some tough rough to play out of. Buggy comes round delivering snacks and drinks as there is no stop off point on the course. Couple of handy toilets available too. Pace of play was pretty steady with very little, if any, waiting around. Most people had hired buggies which helped speed things up. Overall a lovely, challenging course.

Very Good
8.0

For a championship course I’d expected more from it. The staff seemed quite displeased to see us, were told they had no buggies available but could clearly see 20+ not in use so had to walk. The course itself is a doddle, very flat and very straight. Almost playing the same hole back to back. That being said I shot my best score here.

Excellent
10.0

Very Good
8.0

Course was great fun to play the fairway was a bit bald in places and the bunkers were unplayable at times like concrete but in spite of that we had a good time and that’s what matters to us not being brilliant golfers

Very Good
8.0

The oldest course in the Algarve, still a good test of golf with some wonderful holes and tricky greens. Starting to look a little tired around the edges though.

Good
6.0

Nice course, most greens are bunker protected. I have based my scores on other courses in Portugal. Could do with a chipping area. And more buggies to hire. Friend hired clubs(received a very old set!) Take your own!

Very Good
8.0

Enjoyable, but a shame there is just the one 18 hole course left.

Good
6.0

A number of fairways covered in weed. Felt agricultural in places. 4 Temporary greens. Not busy though and I could play it as much as I wanted so had 3 rounds.

Very Good
8.0

Clubhouse a bit dated now.

Very Good
8.0

Very good course

Very Good
8.0

I played the course in September for the past 2 years and I must say it was in very poor condition due to the hot weather. The course was like a dust bowl. I am glad we came for the 3rd time April/May and it was much greener. Greens were in superb order however the bunkers were disastrous. Hardly any sand at all in them.

Poor
2.0

Course was a disgrace say no more total waste of money!

Poor
2.0

Weather good fairways poor, and had to wait around for buggies even though pre booked, and very slow round waiting on every shot!.

Poor
2.0

4 temporary greens that were very small and no effort made to make playable on a 9 hole course. Shocking. No drinks available. Very disappointing.

Very Good
8.0

Very enjoyable, fair course but challenging.

Good
6.0

Although the greens and the majority of fairways were in good condition the rest of the course was not in good condition. Weeds everywhere and almost no sand in the bunkers. Game behind us was a six ball consisting of a group of what can only be described as neds.Disappointing. This is our fourth trip to Penina and we will not be returning.

Very Good
8.0

This course definitely had the feel of ‘the best exotic marigold hotel’ in that it has clearly seen better days but you could see its potential & it’s former glory. There was insufficient sand in the bunkers, though the greens, to be fair were excellent. The yellow tees are quite long for medium/ high handicappers. There was no half way house, though a mobile drinks cart appeared on one of the three rounds. The pro shop is quite limited in stock. Ditches and other water hazards were muddy and deep ( though they told us they have had far more rain than usual this winter) but bring plenty of balls!! All that said we thoroughly enjoyed it and whether it was our tee times or lack of people on course never felt under pressure of time from behind nor did we wait for those in front with average round at 4 - 4.15 hrs.

Excellent
10.0

Good
6.0

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

Exceedingly wet due to recent rainfall but greens in great nick nonetheless. (YGT need to be redo the resort guide as the academy course is shut and by the looks of how overgrown it is, will not be opening again. Resort course had 3 of 9 greens as temps- we ended up playing the championshiip 3 times)

Excellent
10.0

We all loved the course and considering there had been a lot of rain the greens were immaculate. The bunkers could have done with a bit more sand but I think that was also down to the rain . We will be back ❤️🏌️‍♂️🇵🇹

Excellent
10.0

The course layout was very good some fantastic holes. Unfortunately for us we picked the week where they had above average rain. Which made the course very wet adding extra water hazards. A few lost balls in the fairways due to the large puddles to deep to enter. The greens however were very good no water on them. Would definitely like to go back next year and hopefully pick a rain free 3 days.

Very Good
8.0

Unfortunately the area has had well over the average levels of rainfall in recent months. As a result the fairways and 1st cut areas were sodden with lots of standing water. This made the course play much longer as there was no run. Having said that the greens and tee areas were in 1st class condition.

Average
4.0

Not in good condition. Temporary greens in play.

Very Good
8.0

Potentially a great layout but was not in very good condition. Bunkers unkempt. Greens bare patches everywhere. Have visited Penina 4 times now. Will not return.

Very Good
8.0

The course was fantastic, greens were all different speeds,.. The 4 of us found it very challenging so all round a fantastic experience.

Excellent
10.0

We didn't get to play this course.

Very Good
8.0

Nice, scenic course. Not too busy, good pace, lots ot temp greens

Very Good
8.0

Very nice course, quite a slow round though (groups every 8 minutes some of whine were slow)

Very Good
8.0

The play was slow the first day being held up by a four ball that wouldn’t let anyone through, the bunkers were really poor and needed some sand in them

Very Good
8.0

Really enjoyed the challenge as a 18 hdp player some great holes was a bit worried reading reviews before came but course was in great condition greens were perfect condition immaculate..looking forward to choosing another golf trip next year regards

Excellent
10.0

A easy to walk course but you need a lot Of golf balls if you don’t position your ball In fairway you can rack up a big number Also on the holes with water you know Where the big lake is but you don’t know If you go to left there are ditches which swallow your ball greens are large & true

Very Good
8.0

I didn’t play this course. They moved me to the championship course which worked better for me.

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

Layout of course was good , greens were good considering the amount of rainfall . Some parts of the course tired looking and in need of some attention but 3 enjoyable rounds played

Excellent
10.0

Very enjoyable greens need attention

Excellent
10.0

Gave it 5 stars as the staff wanted us to have the best experience and let the course recover. Due to damage to the green caused by some wild animals we were unable to play it. No problem as we had an extra round on the Henry Cotton.

Excellent
10.0

Great course. We thought it was a well laid out course and very fair. Really enjoyed playing it. We’d happily go back and play it again.

Good
6.0

Average
4.0

Course wasn’t great, only 9 holes which we didn’t know about prior, wasn’t kept in the best condition. The course has potential if it was regularly maintained, I understand this could be due to the time of year. If I was to go back I’d have just played another course if the championship one wasn’t available that day.

Very Good
8.0

Course was in excellent condition with a great challenge of golf throughout, only flaw would be that we weren’t told we were paired up with another 2 and they had started before us so we had to play up behind them to catch up and join on.

Very Good
8.0

Some of us found the thick grass difficult

Very Good
8.0

Only played the championship

Very Good
8.0

Golf course always has weak spots with so much play. Course is a brilliant design ....we never bore of playing it. We have golfers from scratch to 20+...all enjoy Penina Championship course.

Good
6.0

Firstly - the second course was closed due to damage to the greens caused by roaming 'wild pigs' (Boar?). Apparently, there are plenty of these animals in the region. I played the Championship course 3 times off the yellow tees. It would be quite some challenge off the back tees with a par of 73. The lay-out of the holes was good and quite interesting. Not just simply up-and-down. Quite a few dog-legs and plenty of water hazards. The course was a reasonable walk as it was quite flat but some of the green to tee distances were a bit stretched. The downside was the condition. Equivalent to a local town muni. Some of the greens were a bit bumpy and the fairways were a bit 'scrabby' with quite a few bare patches. You needed preferred lies here and there. There was little sand in quite a few of the bunkers. Not to overstate the case, the course was very playable and I enjoyed playing it. My playing partners, who had paid over 100 Euros to play here were very uncomplimentary, however. My second round was set at a very bad time, just after 2pm, as the clocks had just gone back the previous night. This meant - with extremely slow 4-balls dominating the time sheet - that I couldn't finish the round and had to give up by the 14th hole. All those behind me had given up already and had driven in. Starting at 1pm would have just been pushing it. Beware this time of year! (Oct).

Very Good
8.0

Great

Average
4.0

Fairways and greens poor

Average
4.0

The hotel was very good but the state of the 'Championship'course was abysmal. The tee management almost encouraged slow games and there was little supervision of group progress on the course.

Average
4.0

The course was in a terrible state full stop!! We heard several rumours regarding the ownership of the course and some problems and Portugal has been in the middle of a drought but this does not excuse the state of the course....pretty much unplayable, trying to find ANY grass on the fairways (never mind green grass) was pretty much impossible. Wouldn't recommend until this is sorted out, terrible shame as the course would be excellent!!!

Average
4.0

The course was in a terrible state due to wild boar trashing some of the greens

Excellent
10.0

Poor
2.0

I must say very poor condition indeed. If we come back we would miss out the resort course totally and play only on the championship course. Severe lack of investment on this course is apparent.

Good
6.0

This was our groups 2nd visit in two years in September. Although I love the layout of the championship course I must say that we were very disappointed in the condition mainly due to the fairways being so burned. Obviously there must be an issue with water supply with this course compared to other golf resorts. Would perhaps try this location in Spring time to have better golf conditions

Poor
2.0

Been here several times and have never seen it or been anywhere to play as bad as this ,the T boxes , fairways and bunkers were the worst I have ever seen anywhere I have ever played , the greens were OK but it's appalling that they are living on the back of the course previous reputation

Good
6.0

Well designed. Lacks investment. Bare patches. Fairways poor. Driving range and practice facilities almost overgrown and non existent. Course Needs watering but there is no recycling system from the hotel.

Poor
2.0

In even worse condition than the main course, some tee boxes were basically bunkers with no grass at all. Fairways in very poor condition. Although not the resorts fault, 4 greens were destroyed by boar so we played on terrible temporary greens, and with it only being a nine hole course this was nearly half the holes.

Poor
2.0

Course condition was terrible, lots of dead areas both on the fairway and off it, even on close surrounds to the green. Some areas had no grass at all, some was extremely patchy. We had to use preferred lies just to play off some grass. Very very disappointed, the course has been let go and neglected with watering. Other courses in the area were in excellent condition. Greens were ok but extremely soft and quite bobbly with some small weeds on some greens. Layout of the holes could have been good but totally ruined by the condition, which was worse than most municipal courses.

Average
4.0

fairways in terrible condition and greens worst of any course we played. No buggies available

Average
4.0

course condition left a lot to be desired. Lots of burnt areas that have clearly not had suffcient water. have played several times in the past, not sure if I would return.

Poor
2.0

The condition of the course is nothing short of a disgrace. Even if wild Boar hadn’t completely destroyed 4 out of the 9 greens (so playing with 4 temp greens) the rest of the course is still in very poor condition. They seem to have given up on it. We managed to move our second round back on to the championship course.

Very Good
8.0

They need to spend a bit of money on this course to restore it to former glories. Some fairways were burnt to a crisp and lots of bare patches around the greens that made chipping very difficult. Also just needs a general tidy up. But still a great course and I was very happy to play it three times during my stay.

Average
4.0

Course in very disappointing condition, the fairways were in such poor condition that the party agreed to play preferred lies! Majority of bunkers had very little sand whilst greens were disappointing also.

Very Good
8.0

The course felt a little tired and seemed to be suffering after a hot summer; the greens were a little disappointing and were not running as true as our uk home course’s.

Poor
2.0

So bad

Good
6.0

Tired around the edges.

Very Good
8.0

Good
6.0

The course was burnt out in a lot of places, fairways were a patchy mixture of grass and dirt. The rough had hardly any grass - mostly just dried out scrub. Greens were good and the starter, pro-shop and bag storage all looked after us well.

Poor
2.0

Having played this course a few years ago we didn't expect much but still somehow ended up really disappointed. Fairways are very patchy and the rough is bare with clumps of grass. The whole course is burnt out except for the greens which were just OK.

Good
6.0

The course is interesting (design) to play with some challenging holes. The greens are surprisingly much slower than my home course and all other Portuguese courses I have played, but fairly true, with adjustment to putting strokes and practice this is fine. Some water hazards on a lot of holes helps with the challenge of the course. The most concerning part of the course are fairways which are desperate for water - very dry, patchy and dusty - we played preferred lies to help adjust for the poor fairways.

Poor
2.0

Very Good
8.0

Fairways weren’t the best and greens a bit too soft but overall a good course. Course was very quiet and we were able to get around 18 holes in about 3 and a half hours.

Excellent
10.0

Brilliant course well looked after. Can make the course a lot more challenging by playing the white tees. Overall a great course to play.

Poor
2.0

Greens and surrounding area was well looked after however tee boxes fairways and the rest of the course was like playing on a beach. Overall a poor course where you cannot play proper golf.

Poor
2.0

Good
6.0

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

Excellent
10.0

Excellent
10.0

Average
4.0

Course was in poor conditions. Suffering heavily from a lack of water. Fairways were patchy and completely dried out. Some of the greens were ok but others had chunks missing from them. Would not recommend this course.

Good
6.0

Nice course but no where near the level of the Henry Cotton which is to be expected

Excellent
10.0

Brilliant course!

Very Good
8.0

Very enjoyable course

Very Good
8.0

Fairways a little ropey but nice greens

Very Good
8.0

To many people using the course 6 hours for 18 holes is ridiculous

Good
6.0

Nice course but like the hotel it needs some improvements mainly to the tee areas and bunkers

Good
6.0

All good

Very Good
8.0

Good golf course

Excellent
10.0

Good
6.0

Good
6.0

This course was in a very scrappy condition with the exception of the greens which were very good.

Good
6.0

On the first round the course was in very poor shape (except the greens which were excellent) then during the week the fairways were cut & ground staff were clearing & tidying which meant by the end of the week it was in pretty good shape.

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

The biggest gripe about this course is how slow it is. We played it twice, over 5 hours each time. No sign of course rangers to keep the games moving or staff showing any concern when complaining about the pace of play. It is a very well used course and is showing signs of that. very uncourteous golfers not letting people through or repairing pitch marks and divots, it really does spoil your enjoyment. Maybe needs a bit of money spent on the course and staff training and because of this I probably wouldn’t want to play this course again.

Very Good
8.0

For a resort course this wasn’t bad, plenty to keep you on your toes and thinking. Greens were surprisingly quick. There are a few areas where the greens have dried out and burned so it makes it look a bit shabby, but as I said, not bad for a resort course.

Excellent
10.0

We were playing as a 4 ball & fortunately very nice people. Had a good experience.

Very Good
8.0

Enjoyable as beginners, no pressure

Very Good
8.0

all o.k. but to far to travel

Excellent
10.0

Excellent course, as good as if not better than the 7 or 8 in Vilamoura. Buggies a bit expensive at 50 euro, would be great if yourgolf could do a deal with the hotel. The hotel did however let me pre-book these to ensure we had the number required.

Very Good
8.0

Perfect 9 holes after arriving from the airport.

Excellent
10.0

some of the tee offs could have been a little better condition

Average
4.0

Excellent
10.0

Great days golf great greens

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

Nice to have a course alongside the Henry Cotton to play as an alternate, but it clearly isn't in the same league - layout and preparation. The greens were pretty good though.

Excellent
10.0

Greens were lovely - true and fast. Plenty of grass on the fairways. Bunkers were well tended and raked every day. One or two areas looked like they needed a bit of TLC.

Excellent
10.0

Great course but very long, a cart is a must in a four ball. Greens were a tad bobbly in places but overall it is a great course. No toilet or water filling stations however meant a fair delay after the 9th to return to the hotel.

Excellent
10.0

Hard course and fairways had lots of divers gets played a lot

Very Good
8.0

Flat interesting and enjoyable course to play. Greens true and a decent pace. Please spend on the practice ground which was a disgrace. The practice balls were so bad and the ground so poor that practice was a waste of time.

Good
6.0

Needs some tender loving care great layout would play it again if it was in better condition We went to Altas and Gramacho they were both in fantastic condition ✔️✔️

Average
4.0

Long round

Very Good
8.0

A lot of not so good golfers, resort course in particular.

Very Good
8.0

Great layout, nice course, the fairways could do with some more water but due to the weather conditions it was easy to understand why with water shortages in the area , nevertheless, the greens were amazing and the course a pleasure to play

Poor
2.0

COURSE IN POOR CONDITION, NEEDS TENDER LOVE AND CARE. HAVING LITTLE RAIN IS NO EXCUSE FOR CONDITION OF THE COURSE.

Very Good
8.0

Again this course required maintenance Mostly due to lack of water but very untidy

Very Good
8.0

Such a shame the course is not better maintained. Very little grass on fairways.

Very Good
8.0

Do to the hot weather course has suffered this year you can't expect all the fairways to be green but the greens where very good

Poor
2.0

The Penina resort is marketed as having three courses. However on arrival we were informed that the Academy course has been closed since 2019. Leaving only the championship course and the Resort course. The condition of the Resort course is extremely poor. The greens are in an awful condition and the fairway are almost devoid of any grass. The championship course greens are ok but fairways and tees poor. I was also disappointed that we were not able to play as a two ball. The resort started insisted that we pair with another two players to make a 4 ball. It looks like they are overselling the available slots. Play is very very slow, we were unable to finish around before the shop shut at 7pm one evening. If you are gong to allow 2.30pm starts then with rounds taking 5 hours the opening times need to be reviewed. Overall the course and hotel are in poor condition and in need of upgrade. I will not be returning to Penina in future.

Poor
2.0

Dreadful condition!!! Didn’t even look like a golf course. No grass at all. Greens had large patches of cracked and broken turf. Hardly any sand in bunkers. The course should not have been opened!

Good
6.0

Difficult to find grass on the course. Had to play preferred lies all holiday. Rounds were in excess of 4.5 hours. Not really the condition you would expect a Championship course to be in, especially when we were assured by yourselves all was ok.

Good
6.0

Good
6.0

Very Good
8.0

Been going to Penina for 30+ years. For holiday golf its hard to beat... not too costly vs lovely layout albeit fairways and tees could be better.

Very Good
8.0

A nice course

Good
6.0

Fairways and tee boxes we’re prety bare

Good
6.0

This is a well designed course, with some fabulous holes (in fact not a bad one at all) and was clearly once a true championship experience. The green were in excellent condition and true. The rest of the course was dry and tired. I understand they have had little rain this season, so this may have had an effect. Even so, the course feels tired and faded. Signage and cart paths need serious work as do the general facilities.

Average
4.0

The resort course is a strange experience. As with the overall hotel, it felt jaded and under invested. The greens were good, but the tees and fairways were poor. There are also some really long holed for what is meant to be more of a beginners course. Signage and facilities really poor.

Excellent
10.0

As I was new to golf the resort course was perfect for me I loved it. We enjoyed all our games.

Good
6.0

This is a classy and attractive course but have played it two years running and on both occasions the fairways have been a bit of a mess. Big patches with no grass.

Poor
2.0

The course is in a terrible state and should be offered to your customers

Average
4.0

Really disappointed with the course, in dire shape compared with all other rounds we placed at other courses

Good
6.0

Clearly a lovely course in its day…but Really dry fairways, in fact fully parched…bunkers need more sand. Tee boxes were unloved! Greens and chipping zones were in decent shape though. Dry river beds appear like you can play from them, but they are treacherous, can easily sink to your knees in treacle like mud!

Excellent
10.0

As above

Excellent
10.0

The course was fantastic, brilliant greens changed the position of the flag every day, which was a challenge at times but great.

Good
6.0

Excellent
10.0

On the last unfortunately the tee off were disorganised as mixed up our tee-time, and the play very slow and no Marshall seen to be pushing people on in front off us. But have to say due to the weather conditions and water issue the greens were some of the best ive ever played.

Good
6.0

Good
6.0

Considering it was a championship course the quality of it wasn’t the best. Especially as individually it costs over €100 per round.

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

Good
6.0

Excellent
10.0

Very Good
8.0

First day we played was very slow 5 1/2 hours to get round and no bar buggy on the course on a hot day , that was not acceptable . Fairways were a bit barren although greens were in good condition. Other day we played was a quicker average round and buggy bar was on duty . Golf reception accommodating although had to negotiate a bit to get a 2ND buggy that we didn’t pre order.

Good
6.0

Very Good
8.0

Good
6.0

Well worn but always a good walk around

Excellent
10.0

Penina championship course is perfect for holiday golf for players of all standards. We had a professional golfer, an octogenarian, low and mid handicappers in our group. All have been several times before and will go again. Staying in the hotel and playing all our golf at Penina perfectly suits our needs.

Excellent
10.0

Perfect :)

Good
6.0

Very Good
8.0

The original course on the Algarve. Tired but still an excellent layout with signs of improvement in many areas. A good test of golf, if a little ‘old school’.

Average
4.0

Very tired and in need a serious investment

Excellent
10.0

Played this course several times and always enjoy it but usually a slow round, to many 4 balls walking is the problem

Good
6.0

Penina and Palmares were extremely poor. Penina is not being maintained properly. Many areas without grass and untidy. Greens also in poor condition. I understand current owners looking to sell and the course looks neglected.

Excellent
10.0

Good
6.0

Good
6.0

Very Good
8.0

Hard for high handicappers. Quite long.

Good
6.0

Great course in reasonable condition but needs rain ! Greens had serious problems with weeds

Excellent
10.0

Great. Went out with a buggy at 7.30 am for each of our three rounds and were finished by 10.30am. Course still looked good with the mature holes standing up well and in good condition. We really enjoyed it.

Very Good
8.0

Enjoyed it. Some long holes as well. Like the hotel it needs investment. Some of the greens had “dead” white areas and were in a state of disrepair to be honest. I had played it before and the contrast between then and now was sharp.

Poor
2.0

The pro shop staff and facilities were really good. The course condition, mainly the fairways were in a poor state, other golfers advised that in 10 years this is the worst the course has ever been. Thin & burnt fairways.

Very Good
8.0

Good course. Nice a flat so easy to walk if necessary. Previous reviews have said it was in poor condition but it was fine when we were there. Been a few time and mainly the same as previous. Good base for a golf tour.

Very Good
8.0

Feels like the whole resort needs some investment including the golf course but really enjoyed the layout and the “parkland” style. It was very very quiet on the day we played…feels like people may have abandoned it a bit but we enjoyed it

Good
6.0

This course needs a lot of money spending on it! It’s obvious it’s been a championship course, all the hole are interesting and challenging but it’s looking very tired, the greens were ok but the fairways were poor with huge areas that had no grass at all on them . If it’s going to compete either the likes of Villamora and Val de Lobo then owners need to have deep pockets!

Average
4.0

We used our second day on the Resort Course to split up our 3-day trip. It's OK and did the job of offering something different. Teeboxes and fairways were not in great shape (due mainly to the hot weather and irrigation ban in Portugal at the start of the season). But the greens were good and extremely quick. Most of us didn't play too well after a big night out in Alvor the night before! Be warned, wayward shots do get punished severely on this course and expect to lose balls if you miss fairways. It's a 9-holer and we played two loops. It's some way short of the Championship Course standard, but Ok. We probably wouldn't play it again if we return to Penina, unless we just wanted a quick 9 to brush off some cobwebs or practice. 2 stars is a bit harsh, it was 2.5 really.

Good
6.0

I had long chat to one of the Pros before our round, because I'd seen a scathing review online. He was really honest and admitted that a hot, rain-free spring coupled with an irrigation ban meant the teeboxes and fairways were not at their absolute best, but imporiving. Work had restarted on the greens and these were good. And he was spot-on. Yes, there were a few bare patches on the course and lies were generally tight for all iron play. But it was certainly playable and nowhere near as bad the review I read. The greens were certainly good - true, firm and quick - and you could tell they were coming back to great shape. On Day One we played a Texas Scramble to give players a chance to acquaint themselves with the course. This was a great idea. We shot a gross 69, net 61. So any adverse course conditions certainly didn't affect our play. If you've not played Penina before, it is tree-lined, but sensible shrub clearance around the bases means you almost always have a chance to chip out sideways if needed. There's a bit of water about and poor shots can be punished, as you'd expect on a championship course. Our Day Three individual event was won by a 24-handicapper with 36 points. So it's a course to suit most golfers. All in all, we really enjoyed playing it. I've given 3 stars but reality was a 3.5 edging towards 4 when we played. The acid test is: Would we go back? And yes, we all would. A goof course, with good facilities and people in the pro shop.

Good
6.0

Relatively forgiving course and the staff were friendly and extremely helpful. Fairways were very rough in places.

Good
6.0

Front 9 fairways in poor condition Back 9 much better Greens are good

Average
4.0

Course scruffy. Variable quality of greens. Fairways brown & bare.

Good
6.0

Course in poor condition, staff not interested, bins overflowing with rubbish. Course was dry and brown not lush and green as expected, relying on there golfing history with no investment, very very disappointing

Average
4.0

Sadly we had to have preferred lies on the course which tells you the poor condition we experienced

Excellent
10.0

Played Penina many times. Love the course layout and the variety of holes. Greens were is superb condition, but lack of water meant the fairways and tees were very dry.

Good
6.0

Intended as a practice course, i assume. Greens good but as with most corses in this area it needs some rain.

Very Good
8.0

Water shortages mean most fairways are very dry but greens and overall condition is decent.

Poor
2.0

Worst course we played, played it for first time 2019 and it was good thought we would go back keeping in mind this holiday was meant to be 2020 then 2021 but course so dry fairways no grass bunkers like concrete except for the 18th

Average
4.0

Having been to Penina twice before we were extremely disappointed with the general course conditions. Fairways very poorly maintained and suffered from lack of irrigation. Greens and surrounds were good, tee boxes also poor. Staff overrun as per hotel. Such a shame, won’t be back anytime soon.

Average
4.0

Course in very poor condition. Greens good but the rest poorly maintained/ not watered.

Good
6.0

It’s is a very nice course and is up there with some of the best in terms of layout and variety of holes. However while the greens were in good condition a lot of the fairways were badly dried out and clearly suffering from the lack of water after two years of below average winter rain. This early in the season I would reckon some would be in very bad condition over the summer without irrigation. Again the reduction in staff was obvious and often the beer/ water cart did not appear which was a pity on such warm days. In this respect the charges for water were a bit high at 3.5 euro for 333 cl. Having said that the ranger kept the course moving and we rarely had a serious delay. If nothing is done to improve the general course consign though I’m not sure our group would return next year

Good
6.0

Not anything like the Championship course, but still very enjoyable!

Very Good
8.0

Beautiful course, lovely surroundings, lots of birds and wildlife!

Excellent
10.0

Very good but don't play with a hangover 🙄 I carried it was a long walk so I would recommend a buggy or a trolley it was 19000 steps

Excellent
10.0

Course was long and challenging the greens were fast and very good

Excellent
10.0

The greens are beautiful but can be tricky!

Very Good
8.0

The fairways were a bit patchy and a lot of scrub lying just of the fairways.

Good
6.0

A nine hole course which could be better if in immaculate condition, however the absence of a Starter means hold-ups when starting the back nine in amongst players starting their round.

Excellent
10.0

Play in four’s a must to ensure a good, steady pace. The course is a good test of golf with many interesting water features that ensure decisions on club selection are vital.

Good
6.0

Tees and fairways, particularly on the front nine, were poor and overall appearance scruffy. Greens excellent. Pace of play was good and we started on time. Some testing and interesting holes with well positioned hazards.

Average
4.0

Very Good
8.0

Our experience was spoiled by YGT charging £220 for buggy hire for our 4 rounds on the championship course. By comparison the Resort charge was 160 euros. A refund is requested for this.

Very Good
8.0

Enjoyed it

Good
6.0

Only did 9 as rain started but nice and flat

Very Good
8.0

A beautiful golf course can score well if your on your game the greens were superb

Very Good
8.0

Nice course and probably more challenging than anticipated - decent length for a resort course. Similar to champ course, good amount of water hazards and enjoyable hole designs. Greens were a bit more bumpy etc but probably not unexpected. Good value I think.

Very Good
8.0

Enjoyable course kept in good condition in the important areas but could tell some parts have been let go slightly. Greens were good and decent pace. Fun and challenging amount of sand/water action which made it clear has been used as a competitive course in the past. Had to wait at most holes but it was the same for everyone so didn't feel pressured from those playing behind - about 4 hour game.

Excellent
10.0

An excellent old fashioned golf course. It played long, as we had rain and is tree lined with streams and ponds to navigate, a great test of all golf shots. greens were immaculate but the fairways in places were scruffy as were the tees, but the overall experience was well worth it.

Excellent
10.0

Lovely course, a bit beaten up by the sun but played well and greens were very good

Very Good
8.0

Very tuff 4 me .my age? But a lovely place 4 the fair golfers

Very Good
8.0

Staff were excellent

Excellent
10.0

Excellent
10.0

course pretty long with plenty of water along with bunkers and other hazards. tees need slight attention and some greens had been airated which has to be done this time of year but did not really affect putting and they were really fast and tricky and they will probably do a bit on tees which i am being very picky about. overall one of the best courses i have played interesting would highly recommend

Good
6.0

I've been going to Penina for many years but it looks really sad and run down now. It needs a lot of TLC and money to bring back to past glories. A real shame.

Average
4.0

A really good course design, and interesting set of 9 holes. But the condition of the resort course was poor and not well maintained. If they bring that up to standard it would be a real asset to the resort

Excellent
10.0

Golf was excellent. 6860 yards off the white tees, par 73, slope rating 143. A real test for all golfers. Apart from a few patches of bobbly grass on parts of the green, they rolled really nicely. Very interesting course design and thoroughly enjoyable

Very Good
8.0

Lovely golf course but the putts bobbled

Very Good
8.0

We love staying here and playing this lovely course. It has to be said though it is in need of TLC. Condition of greens not great. They are lumpy, with moss etc not championship standard. We really hope they get this sorted as there are a lot of great courses in The Algarve and of course goes down hill so will hotel

Good
6.0

The fairways and greens had suffered from overuse. An enjoyable round.

Very Good
8.0

The water made the course tricky in places, and overuse caused some issues with the greens. We needed to book in advance to secure a buggy, but electric trolleys were sufficient. A very enjoyable course

Poor
2.0

Oh dear; poor Penina. They have lost the greens. Our understanding is that this occurred during the pandemic due to lack of staff on the course. They are very bumpy with weedy grasses. I hope that they manage to sort things out soon but I would not advise playing there until next year at the earliest.

Excellent
10.0

Despite some issues with the greens this is still a great course and a pleasure to play

Average
4.0

Please don’t book anyone on the resort course ….it’s in really poor condition and the greens have been ravaged by disease and animals!!!!

Good
6.0

What a shame! What was once a great course has been let down by a lack of proper care and maintenance. The fairways were fairly poor, the first cut too long, some soft muddy patches where the irrigation system was leaking, bunkers unraked and some without rakes, divots unrepaired. I could go on… The greens were poorly maintained with evidence of some fungus or weed growing in patches, areas of unrepaired damage, very poor surface with hundreds of unrepaired or badly repaired pitch marks. Whilst slightly better than the Resort Course it was still virtually impossible to have a putt hold its line with the ball bobbling it’s way towards the hole.

Poor
2.0

This was the worst condition golf course I have played in the last 25 years. The fairways were bare and undefined with weeds growing everywhere and no evidence of repairs to divots. Bunkers were unrated with no rakes in most of them. The greens were terrible, they were worse than some of the fairways that I have played on on other courses. There were large unrepaired damaged patches on some of the greens and none of them were smoothly finished causing the putt to bobble and was impossible to hold a line.

Good
6.0

One of the best layouts in the algarve totally ruined by a lack of investment. I’ve played here many times over the years and each year the condition gets worse. Greens awful and a real lack of investment year on year is ruining a real gem. I won’t be back.

Excellent
10.0

We enjoyed this course as the fairways and greens were a lot firmer and much like you get in the uk Shame the academy par 3 course us currently closed with lots of work to get it back to its best

Very Good
8.0

We have played this course many times and currently the course is not as previous years. This is due to the pandemic, hopefully by next year it will be back to its best Fairways Very soft which makes it tiring pushing a trolley on the championship course

Excellent
10.0

Very enjoyable ,played twice 83and 86 strokes respectively ,greens were a little variable in speed and a few (eg18th) were bumpy and some had some fungus and weed but overall the experience was good .

Average
4.0

Greens deterirated significantly since we were last there

Very Good
8.0

The course was a tough test from the white tees, but a very enjoyable challenge at the same time. The condition of everything asides from the greens was excellent. The greens were disappointing - it was obvious there had been some problem with a disease or weeds which made them patchy in general and difficult to roll putts on. We were told they were improving by the staff there, so again I would assume that it has been tough to keep up the required maintenance on the course over the last year or so during Covid, and things are starting to improve now more visitors are returning. Hopefully they return to good quality soon! The service and facilties around the course were good, again maybe in need of a little tlc, but thats all. Range was €5 for 50 balls which was reasonable and there is plenty of short game practice space available.

Very Good
8.0

The course was a good as I remember , greens a little bit under there normal standard ( excepted this due to the year they have had)

Average
4.0

Excellent
10.0

I found the course a real challenge as a 15 handicap but after a week of coaching I was playing the best shots of my life!

Average
4.0

Good
6.0

Lacks interest, cannot compete with many other courses in the Algarve.

Excellent
10.0

Superb .

Good
6.0

Good
6.0

Nice course but fairways not good

Excellent
10.0

Great course in good condition

Very Good
8.0

The course was in good condition and we enjoyed playing it. Buggies are a bit pricey at Euros50 a round although there is a modest discount for 5 rounds.

Excellent
10.0

Over 20 years we have played Penina in lots of different conditions. This year the course was probably the best we have ever seen it .

Very Good
8.0

Excellent staff in the club shop, bag room and changing room Starter at first tee very pleasant and informative Course condition was very good

Excellent
10.0

excellent golf course. stayed open despite very heavy downpours-drained superbly. greens excellent condition.

Excellent
10.0

This is a busy course but unfortunately understaffed. A lack of marshals on the course so no one keeping the slow players in check. The course is a nice challenge but you can see by the colour of the water running threw it that it’s not being looked after properly. If your ball goes into a stream it’s gone. The resort course is 9 holes and pretty enjoyable but pretty rough and ready.

Excellent
10.0

Excellent
10.0

Very long par 4 and 5 holes tough course but a fantastic experience

Excellent
10.0

Loved the course.I have only been playing golf two years and lost a few balls in the water but this added to the fun. The greens were in excellent condition and the entire course is maintained to a high standard. The course layout is challenging but also added to the fun. Definitely booking again next year.

Good
6.0

Didn't find the course particularly challenging.Great to have toilet facilities on the course.

Very Good
8.0

As a two ball we were a little disappointed being paired up with people having poor standard of golf.

Excellent
10.0

We only played the championship coarse challenging a number of water hazards second round I had a net 74 happy I had to pay for the buggies on my hotel bill I thought it was in my package?

Excellent
10.0

Good
6.0

Good
6.0

Decent course.

Good
6.0

The course was ok, nothing special.

Excellent
10.0

A true challenge for all levels of golfer, in very good condition with even paced and well kept greens.

Very Good
8.0

A convenient course to give an alternative to the Championship Course. Easy to play either 9 or 18 holes on the first and last days of the trip without any hassle.

Very Good
8.0

Delayed start on arrival so waited around for beginning of the round which then had a knock on effect with the last group finishing time Fairways ok but just off in first cut of rough shabby and uneven ground Greens well worn full of pitch marks also shabby around edges

Very Good
8.0

play straight and your fine ,go off and could be tricky with the thick grass ,not long but could be hard work to get back on the fairways

Very Good
8.0

golf was good ,fairways were nice but go off and the grass can be tricky

Very Good
8.0

Good
6.0

Having visited here before, we thought the course wasn't up to the usual standard. Greens slow, around the bunkers looking scruffy.

Very Good
8.0

Enjoyed the championship course and managed to get round in a 2 ball which is unusual for this course . Very flat and some holes quite repetitive but overal a good round .

Very Good
8.0

This was a good Championship Course some 20 years ago. These days with the technology that has been applied to golf in general it has lost its sparkle a little bit. That saying, it is still a good test of golf for the Club Golfer, plenty of water! You need to play the course a few times to get to know your way around; and when you do, it will be a lot more enjoyable. Buggies are very expensive all over the Algarve however, it was nice to see a discounted rate for hirings over several days albeit only being informed of this after our first day. The refreshment buggy comes round several times which, on hot days is a very welcome sight. The biggest problem is the 'holiday golfers' who, by their very nature, are slow players. Overall we enjoyed the course and would certainly play it again.

Very Good
8.0

I was surprised to find that there was no course planner available. It was something that I considered essential on this course with it's hidden water hazards. OK if you have a DMD with a picture, but otherwise the lay-up distances are a matter of guesswork, resulting in a lot of lost balls.

Very Good
8.0

I had not been to Penina since 2006 and I was pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable it was. Good condition for the time of year.

Good
6.0

Great to play it....BUT.....we felt the course was in need of some. TLC. ( tender loving care). A bit dated......great holes....but could do with a little maintenance.

Very Good
8.0

Not the championship course it used to be, but still enjoyable. Bit more difficult for high handicaps.

Very Good
8.0

Better than expected but you need a buggy and they are ‘pricey’. Overall a good experience

Excellent
10.0

Lovely course, hard but fair challenge. Well maintained and helpful staff

Good
6.0

Twice around a nine hole Course is not very exciting, but we enjoyed it. Course was a bit untidy so we decided not to play it twice as planned.

Excellent
10.0

1st time at Penina and what a course we were told by some of our fellow golfers at our home club that it was in poor condition we did not find this it was very good

Very Good
8.0

Upgraded to 6 rounds so previous review the same

Very Good
8.0

4 and a half hours average to complete the round which we all thought good because of length,difficulty,water hazards and lots of bunkers

Excellent
10.0

great golf course in good condition

Excellent
10.0

This course is surprising as it is a nine hole but is an ideal course for a down day. It was not too difficult but was perfect for us

Excellent
10.0

There was eight of us playing all of us on average handicaps and we all agree the course was fantastic. We have played golf in Portugal for the last 14 years and we all love Penina. Some of us didn't play so well some days but that was due to a little too much beer the night before. The staff in the clubhouse were fantastic and could not have been more helpful

Good
6.0

Excellent
10.0

Enjoyed the experience of playing a very good course kept in excellent condition. We will be back next year to do it all again. Thanks Dave and Anthony

Good
6.0

We had been travelling for 11 hours so didn’t play at our best. However, we enjoyed the course.

Excellent
10.0

Very enjoyable ………

Excellent
10.0

Very enjoyable as always!

Excellent
10.0

Course in excellent condition and although challenging at times,it was a very enjoyable playing experience.l would like to add how impressed we were with the efficiency and helpfulness of the staff in the Pro- shop - getting us off on time and looking after our golf equipment every day.

Very Good
8.0

Tee- off on time and holes well marked and easy to follow .Course in good playing condition.Enjoyed our hassle-free rounds.

Excellent
10.0

Great course, Looking forward to next year already

Very Good
8.0

A test of accuracy and placement

Excellent
10.0

Mainly enjoyed every round played although was particularly slow one day as medal went out early for the members as I understand it. Course and greens in excellent condition and you needed to be on your A game to get a reasonable stable ford score.

Very Good
8.0

Seem to be the poor relation in terms of general maintenance although the greens were good. Still a stern test for a 9 hole

Excellent
10.0

Very Good
8.0

Very Good
8.0

Really tough course. Greens were slow. Bunkers not racked. We waited every hole ( I guess we had buggies)But overall a great experience.

Good
6.0

Slow play.

Excellent
10.0

Had a great time playing the courses available.

Excellent
10.0

Great courses really enjoyed playing them.

Excellent
10.0

Penina is hard to fault as a golf course, though the expediency of the transport there and back from the airport deserves special mention, literally ran like clockwork.

Excellent
10.0

A really nice warm up for the Championship course

Excellent
10.0

Some brilliant holes and great layout, requiring straight and long off the tee. The rough is quite short but the ball sits down in it. After rain this rough became was very lush and hard to play from, so finding the fairway is a must. All for hire hand trollies are old fashioned pull type, these are hard going in the rough. Hiring an electric trolley on site costs 20 euro /round. Greens were fast and true. Before rain it was very hard to stop the ball on the greens. Expected round time is 4.5 hours. We had rain 3 out of 6 days in first week of March.

Good
6.0

Not in great condition, the fairways were patchy and covered with lots of leaves and debris from the surrounding trees. Bunkers had very little sand in them. Greens were in good condition, true and fast. Very tight off some tees, this course would be great if it was maintained to the same standard as the Championship course. This is a 9 hole course with 2 sets of tees. We were booked to play this twice but staff allowed us to change to Championship course for our 2nd round at no cost.

Very Good
8.0

Well looked after and good greens staff excellent will return

Very Good
8.0

On the week we played the course the greens were being treated by spiking. This caused the ball not to run smoothly. I spoke to the Director of Golf and suggested that in future there was a yearly plan to do this work, and that prospective guests were advised in advance of booking. I don't hold out much hope but I will be requesting this information before booking in future

Excellent
10.0

Average rating for difficulty of the coarse is a bit dismissive from a club golfer, however off the yellow tees a goodish score is doable, I think you can see why the pro's do quite well there, if you're not on your game though take a ball scooper with you.

Excellent
10.0

course layout great greens great condition very good. a little bit of tidying needed in places, however it was february

Excellent
10.0

Superb golf course not for the faint harted 🏌🏾‍♀️

Very Good
8.0

Was told it was good but was dissapointed with the general condition. A littel tired and untidy,ponds and ditches need attention. Tees and greens good.

Good
6.0

Setting off at 10th was difficult, narrow fairways. Would have been better setting off at 1st.

Good
6.0

A good coarse for par 3s, very narrow with plenty of over hanging trees.

Very Good
8.0

Got held up on several occasions, because you go around twice.

Excellent
10.0

Really tough after the rain.

Very Good
8.0

Excellent golfing challenge and highly recommend a visit.

Very Good
8.0

As a 15 h'cap golfer I found the course a very good challenge. Overall condition of course was very good. I can understand why it held the Portuguese open. I would strongly recommend visiting and playing.

Excellent
10.0

Very good course, great greens and fairways.

Excellent
10.0

Great course, a must hit the green as they are very good and hold the ball well. If playing late watch the bar closing as the shut at 7pm.

Very Good
8.0

Challenging course - at little slow at times but mostly everyone moved at a reasonable pace. Def need a ball retriever - lose a lot of golf balls in the water hazards

Very Good
8.0

The amount of pitch marks on the greens is a disgrace. Overall, the courses are ok but the condition of the greens and the lack of managing slow play are real problems which would make me think twice about a return visit.

Very Good
8.0

A good test, albeit only nine holes with two tees on each hole.

Average
4.0

Not bad for a par three until we got behind a five ball who were very slow with no idea of golf etiquette.

Good
6.0

No particularly memorable holes. About the best part was good quality lunch available afterwards. Staff on course were the least helpful of the three courses we played.

Very Good
8.0

This was a very pleasant and non-challenging course to play on our last day. With wide nicely kept fairways, good greens and little to frighten the high handicappers. 9 holes are played twice from different tees but the difference is only a few yards from the same teeing ground; essentially, it's a 9 hole course payed twice.

Very Good
8.0

This is a beautiful classically designed course and a very good but not fiendish challenge, especially for high handicappers. It is quite flat but plenty of well-placed bunkers and water require you to think your way round. The greens were a disappointment in as much as the surfaces were soft and easily damaged as evidenced by the numerous pitch mark scars. I was very disappointed by the number of golfers who had not bothered to repair their pitch-marks. Presumably they were the ones who hadn't bothered to rake the bunkers even though there were plenty of rakes. The bunkers would benefit from some fresh sand. What I found most off-putting on all three courses was the constant loud noise of twin-engined aircraft taking off and landing as they serviced the sky diving that lasted all day. The course is immediately adjacent to this airfield.

Average
4.0

The 9 hole course weaves in and out of the championship course. The fairways and greens were patchy so its only real value was to practice your shots for playing the other two courses.

Very Good
8.0

We played on the Championship course three times. Conditions of the fairways and greens was good. We had a range of golfing handicaps from 8 to 28 and the course catered for all abilities.

Very Good
8.0

As a second course the Resort was fine. It is a challenge for the less experienced golfer and being only 9 holes it is easy to come off if struggling after one circuit! There was not the same amount of traffic on the Resort compared with the Championship course.

Excellent
10.0

The Championship course was in excellent order considering the heat. Not a lot of run on the fairways as there was a good covering of grass ensuring a great lie. Speed of play was dependent on the ability of the groups in front!

Good
6.0

Needs much work to restore it to Championchip standard. Very very busy so difficult to play properly. It is a great design and calls for good shot making but waiting for every shot does not help.

Excellent
10.0

Excellent
10.0

Penina Golf Resort Frequently Asked Questions

How many restaurants are there at the golf resort?

The Penina Golf Resort offers a total of 6 restaurants, Sagres, Le Grill, L’arlecchino, Sir Henry Cotton Club, Dunas Beach & Bar Monchique.

Is Club Hire available at Penina?

You can hire golf clubs at Penina Golf Resort

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