Portugal – Algarve

The south of Portugal has long been known as a haven for golfers. But did you know it is home to six of the 100 best courses in Europe?

When Golf World came to rank the Top 100 Golf Courses in Continental Europe last autumn, it was a hugely difficult task – and much more competitive than the inaugural list in 1999. Some stellar names found themselves outside the hallowed century as a result of the significant increase in overall quality of golf courses across mainland Europe. As many as 18 countries were represented – a truly remarkable figure for a continent whose golf used to be centred around no more than four countries.

In such a competitive environment – there were a remarkable 16 new entries – traditional favourites simply have to suffer. Yet one of the traditional superpowers has more than maintained its lofty position. The Algarve had six entries on the list – the most of any region in Europe and part of a highly-impressive haul for Portugal.

So, while the Algarve may have a (justified) reputation as a fun-packed, sundrenched, relaxing golfing destination, it also needs to be known as an area crammed full of genuine world-class quality. The likes of San Lorenzo, Palmares, Quinta do Lago, Amendoeira and Vilamoura (Old) could stand toe to toe
with a list of courses anywhere in the world. In addition, two further courses received recognition in the ‘Next 50’ list, Penina and Victoria. And the remaining 27 in this glorious area are hardly unimpressive.

There is variety as well as quality and quantity. Laid out in a variety of landscapes – from links to parklands to rolling hillside – you never get bored of golf on the Algarve. Over the next few pages of this special focus, more of the attractions of the Algarve will be revealed.

THREE KEY ADVANTAGES
• It’s a year-round destination with over 300 days of sunshine. May and September are especially lovely times to visit
• Cheap flights from all over Britain to Faro and the super-fast A22 motorway takes you to your resort within an hour
• It’s great value. Green fees vary from £40 up to £140 but you can plan ahead and get deals including top courses for £200

	Le Meridien Penina Golf & Resort Le Meridien Penina offers golfers a perfect base for a holiday with the magnificent Penina Championship Course, regular host of the Portuguese Open, on site. The hotel is located on The Algarve, within 45 minutes drive of Faro Airport, and 5 minutes from the lively resort of Alvor and 10 minutes to beautiful Lagos.
	Algarve West Golf Escapes are delighted to offer fantastic value golf holidays in The Algarve’s two most famous golf resorts: – Penina Festival Tournaments 2011 and San Lorenzo Festival Tournaments 2011.
	Algarve Central Enjoy your golf in fabulous sunshine, relax in luxury accomodation on worldclass courses by sparkling seas, where all your green fees are included.
	Algarve East Generations of golf enthusiasts have made the Algarve their first choice for a golf holiday and its magic never fades.
	10 Things to do away from the Golf Course The previous pages emphatically show the Algarve has courses to satisfy even the most discerning golfer. the off-course attractions are just as enticing…
	Vila Gale Hotels If you are thinking of a golf holiday in Portugal, the Vila Gale Hotel group will have the perfect base for you. It sounds a grand statement, but they really do have hotels all over the country.
	Dona Filipa and San Lorenzo This elegant, stylish and traditional hotel has a reputation for excellent service, superb golf and extensive leisure facilities. Located a short drive from Faro airport, it nestles at the edge of the golden sands of the Vale do Lobo estate, offering 154 guest rooms and suites decorated in traditional Portuguese style décor