The Algarve is a popular area along Portugal’s south coast and many foreign buyers are lured there to enjoy 300 days of annual sunshine. But did you know that the Algarve is home to 40 of the world’s best golf courses?

A history of golf in the Algarve

Celebrated golfer, Sir Henry Cotton, established the Algarve as a world class golfing destination. He is known as the ‘grandfather of Algarve golf’ as he built the first 18-hole course on Portugal’s south coast in 1966.

Fun fact: Paul McCartney wrote Penina while on holiday at the resort in 1968 and named the song after the resort’s hotel.

Cotton also designed a number of classic courses along the 150 mile stretch of Algarve coast. Today, the Algarve is home to over 40 golf courses that span from Sagres in the west, all the way to Quinta do Vale in the east.

Keith Pelley, CEO of European Tour, said, “The Algarve continues to be a terrific backdrop for tournament golf, having hosted 35 tournaments since 2001.”

Where to look for property in the Algarve

There are two types of properties available to golfers – those on the resorts and those nearby. The option is entirely up to you. Resort life is laidback and picturesque as you’ll have manicured lawns on your doorstep. Homes on golf resorts come with access to the usual onsite amenities which often include swimming pools, tennis courts and spa facilities. As you’re on the resort, you’ll also benefit from onsite security and general maintenance.

Golf resort homes are never too far from the resort club houses, restaurant and bars too. So, you never have to wander far for a bite to eat.

Properties near popular resorts are often a little more affordable as you don’t get all the extra amenities thrown in. However, there are some wonderful spots to find your dream home, not too far from the course. These properties often offer a little more privacy.

The best courses lie in the Golden Triangle, made up of Vilamoura, Vale do Lobo and Almancil.

 

Vilamoura

Vilamoura is an affluent resort town in the Algarve. It’s known for its world-class hotels, trendy restaurants, large marina and casino.

All the beaches in Vilamoura have Blue Flag accreditations which means they meet the highest requirements for cleanliness, environmental standards, water quality and facilities.

In terms of location, Vilamoura is just a 25-minute drive from Faro Airport and Albufeira.

Vilamoura is recognised as the number one location for golf properties in the Algarve as it is home to several internationally recognised courses that have been used for championship competitions.

There are six challenging golf courses in the Vilamoura resort area. These include Victoria golf course, Millennium golf course, Laguna golf course, the Pinhal golf course and attached to the resort is Vila Sol which has 27-holes.

 

 

Vale do Lobo & Quinta do Lago

Vale do Lobo is a luxury beachfront resort, extremely popular with residents and tourists. It’s a modern resort with a shopping centre, hotels, medical centre and spa.

Vale do Lobo is just outside of Faro and was one of the first resorts to be built following the 1962 decision to build Faro Airport.

Vale do Lobo is home to two 18-hole courses. The Royal Course and The Ocean Course. The second of the two was designed by Sir Henry Cotton. There are other notable courses less than a five-minute drive away. They include Quinta do Lago North, Quinta do Lago South, the San Lorenzo course, the Laranjal course and the 27-hole Pinheiros Altos golf course.

Both the Ocean Both Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lobo have hosted the Portuguese Open on multiple occasions.

 

Lagos

If you’re looking to reside off the resort, Lagos is a wonderful city to pick. It’s a unique old town that overlooks the Algarve cliffs and beaches. The town has a rich and beautiful history that’s still noticeable today thanks to the old fortress, medieval churches and 14^th century walls.

The city is famous for its stunning beaches with rocky cliffs and seafaring heritage. Lagos is still within Faro district, so the golf courses are easily accessible. Faro Airport is an hour drive away from Lagos along the coast.

There are three excellent courses near Lagos. There’s the 27-hole Palmares golf course in the east. The 18-hole Boavista golf course in the west, plus, it’s just a few minutes’ drive from the town centre. And finally, there’s the 18-hole Espiche course to the north.

Lagos is an attractive place to live and would suit someone whose partner isn’t as keen on golf. This gives your partner the best of town life, near some sandy beaches and cultural city centre, while you can enjoy the best of the Algarve’s courses knowing they’re just a short drive away.

Discover the 40 Algarve golf courses 

Written by PropertyGuides for Rightmove

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