Portugal as a golf destination – a paradise for golfers all year round
Portugal is one of the best golf destinations in Europe – and rightly so. With over 90 first-class golf courses, a mild climate all year round, breathtaking natural scenery and excellent hotels, the country offers ideal conditions for golfers of all abilities. Whether you play in the sunny Algarve, around Lisbon or in the Azores, each golfing region in Portugal has its own character and distinctive charm.
Golf in the Algarve – sun, sea and world-class courses
The Algarve is the heart of the Portuguese golf scene. Some of Europe’s most beautiful golf courses are located between Lagos and Vilamoura. Names such as Monte Rei, Quinta do Lago, Dom Pedro Old Course and Vale do Lobo are almost legendary for many golfers.
The courses are perfectly maintained, varied and often spectacularly integrated into the landscape – with sea views, pine groves and rolling hills. The Algarve is a top destination, especially in winter: while Central Europe is freezing, you can play here in pleasant temperatures of 18 to 22 degrees.
Golf highlights in the Algarve:
Monte Rei Golf & Country Club – Jack Nicklaus signature course
Quinta do Lago South & North – venue of the Portuguese Open
Vale do Lobo Royal Course – known for its iconic cliff hole No. 16
Dom Pedro Old Course – classic parkland style with a British touch
Golf around Lisbon – culture meets golfing pleasure
The region around Lisbon, Cascais and Estoril offers a unique combination of golf, culture and cuisine. After a round in the dunes of Oitavos Dunes or on the fairways of West Cliffs Golf Links, you can be in the heart of the capital in less than an hour – with its charming alleys, historic districts and excellent restaurants.
Top golf courses near Lisbon:
Oitavos Dunes – one of the best links courses in Europe
West Cliffs – spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, pure nature
Troia Golf – challenging, technical and beautiful
Aroeira I & II – classic parkland courses south of the capital
Golf on Madeira and the Azores – pure nature in the Atlantic
If you want to combine golf with a nature experience, the islands of Madeira and the Azores offer a very special atmosphere.
The golf courses here are often located in spectacular landscapes with views of the Atlantic Ocean, volcanic slopes and lush vegetation. In Madeira, Palheiro Golf and Santo da Serra Golf Club are particularly impressive – the latter with panoramic views over the island. In the Azores, the Furnas Golf Course and Batalha Golf Course on São Miguel offer impressive fairways surrounded by tropical nature.
Why Portugal is an ideal golf destination
Playable all year round thanks to its mild climate
High density of courses with internationally award-winning facilities
Excellent hotels and resorts with direct access to the golf courses
Short flight times from Central Europe (2–3 hours)
Hospitality, cuisine and culture – perfect for connoisseurs
Conclusion: Portugal offers golf holidays of the highest standard
Whether you are an ambitious player looking for challenging courses or simply want to enjoy the sun, good food and well-maintained fairways, Portugal offers world-class golf holidays. The combination of quality, variety and atmosphere makes the country one of the most popular golf destinations worldwide.