Best Golf Courses in Vilamoura With Green Fees
Posted by: Sumaira
on June 21, 2023
There are 6 golf courses in Vilamoura, two of which comfortably rank amongst the best in the Algarve. If you’re staying in the town centre, they are easily accessible offering some superb rounds of golf. But not all golf courses are created equally and some will be more suitable than others.
Our handy guide to the best golf courses in Vilamoura can help you pick the perfect course for your needs. So whether you’re a complete beginner or a scratch golfer, we’ll help you find the perfect course to play.
The Old Course was the first golf course in Vilamoura to open its doors in 1969. Designed by Frank Pennick Junior, The Old Course underwent major renovations in 1997 and offers golfers a classic design that utilises the natural contours of the land.
Signature Hole
The 8th hole is as tricky as it is beautiful. At stroke index 1, this 418-yard, par-4 has a bunker guarding the left to catch any wayward tee shots. From there, the hole gently do-legs right towards the green where 2 bunkers protect the green on the left-hand side. Make a par here and you’re having a good round.
Victoria is Dom Pedro’s flagship course. Designed by none other than Arnold Palmer, it's hosted the DP World Tour’s, Portugal Masters every year since 2007. Victoria opened in 2004 at a cost of €18 million and is set up for tour events and is quite the coup for golf in Vilamoura. Competition tees are set far enough back to challenge even the most accomplished golfers. A large clubhouse capable of catering to huge events completes the setup.
Signature Hole
Arnold Palmer chose the 17th at Victoria as his signature hole and who are we to argue? Teeing off over water, the aquatic theme continues down the right-hand side on this 557-yard par-5 hole. Once you’ve cleared the water, play a safe iron down the fairway avoiding the bunker on the left. From there you’ll have a stunning approach to the green. However, leak your 2nd shot right and you’ll have to judge a tricky wedge over water and onto the green.
Vila Sol is often overlooked when booking a golf trip to Vilamoura, such is the dominance of the Dom Pedro Golf Courses. Vila Sol sits at the top of the list for a golf holiday to Vilamoura in our opinion, as Vila Sol Golf Resort provides everything you need without ever needing to leave the complex.
Couple the superb accommodation with an immaculately presented 27-hole golf course and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a varied golf trip.
The course is split into three loops of nine holes: The Prime Loop, The Challenge Loop and the Prestige Loop, enabling three different course layouts to play during your visit. Each loop has its own, unique layout and challenges, making it worth playing several times for the full experience.
Signature Hole
Hole 7 is Vila Sol’s signature hole. At 197 yards from the competition tees, this par-3 requires you to carry a large body of water to reach the green. It’s a demanding tee shot by any standard. It’s advisable to leave your tee shot below the hole, as anything long will require a tricky downhill putt.
Pinhal opened in 1976, making it one of the older golf courses in Vilamoura. Designed by Frank Pennick Junior, Pinhal offers a wide variety of holes and manages to hold the attention of any golfer. Pinhal isn’t the most challenging of courses in Vilamoura and will suit golfers of all abilities. It’s an excellent course for large groups with varying abilities and is perfect for beginners or those still getting to grips with the game.
Signature Hole
The 8th hole at Pinhal is a “proper” par-3. Measuring 161 yards off the white tees, you need to carry your shot over the water that covers the front of a two-tiered green. To add to the complexity, there are three bunkers to catch any wayward tee shots. One is front left beyond the water. The second and third are at the back. Precision is key to getting your par here.
As the name suggests, Laguna places great emphasis on water in the course design. Many of the holes feature lakes or streams and avoiding them is the key to conquering it.
Designed by Joseph Lee and opened in 1990, Laguna was originally part of a 27-hole setup. At the turn of the century, a further 9 holes were added and two distinct golf courses were created and Millennium and Laguna were born.
Laguna occupies the flatter lower-lying land and provides a links-like feel. It’s very playable for beginners and larger groups and is one of the cheaper golf courses in Vilamoura. Laguna is a superb course to start your golf holiday in Vilamoura.
Signature Hole
The 9th is Laguna's signature hole. A 413-yard par-4, that slopes gently to the left features water all the way down the righthand side of the fairway. A bunker to the left lurks for anyone that tries to push their tee shot out left. From there, a straightforward approach shot awaits to the green.
Opened at the turn of the century, Millennium is Vilamoura’s newest golf course after a further 9 holes were added to Laguna. Millennium and Laguna have the same green fees and are therefore one of the cheaper options in the town. It offers another superb option for higher handicappers and larger groups with varying abilities.
Millennium’s best holes can be found between 3-7, where you’ll cross the road over to hillier terrain with narrow fairways and beautiful pine trees. These holes alone make Millennium worth playing.
Signature Hole
The 165-yard par-3 is Millennium’s signature hole. Water lies in wait for any tee shorts that leak left, while a large bunker on the right will catch you out if you fade it too much.
While there are six golf courses in Vilamoura, travel a short distance outside of the town and you’ll discover a plethora of other golf courses, many of which we consider to be some of the best golf courses in the Algarve.
Located just 10km southeast of Vilamoura, Vale do Lobo hosts two must-play courses for any discerning golf visiting the area. The Royal Course is set amongst opulent villas, home to the rich and famous who frequent the area during the summer months.
Standards are impeccable at the Royal Course, with beautifully manicured greens and bright white sand in the bunkers. Designed by Sir Henry Cotton (architect of several other Algarve golf courses) and opened in 1969, Vale do Lobo was extended in 1997 by Rocky Roquemore to create the two golf courses that exist today.
Atlantic pines and ostentatious villas frame much of the golf course and there are plenty of challenging holes to test your skills. That being said, you’ll probably spend most of your round preoccupied with anticipation as you await to play the 16th.
Signature Hole
There can only be one signature hole at Vale do Lobo Royal and that’s the 16th hole. This 220-yard par-3 hole plays along the cliffs with the Atlantic Ocean to your left. You’ll need to clear a gigantic ravine to reach the green. It’s safe to say it’s one of the most terrifying shots you’ll play in the Algarve.
When Vale do Lobo was extended in 1997, The Ocean Course was born. While the Royal takes many of the accolades, there are a number of holes that we prefer on the Ocean Course. Holes 3-5-6-11-14-15 all play down to the Atlantic Ocean and offer some wonderful vistas that you can soak up and enjoy.
The newer holes provide a slightly more forgiving experience and provide a welcome opportunity to let rip with the driver without coming unstuck. While many will flock to the Royal Course, we reckon the Ocean is just as good and can be less crowded.
Signature Hole
We love the 11th and gets our vote as the signature hole at the Ocean Course. A blind tee shot, followed by a mid-iron onto a green that’s practically on the beach is one to savour.
Just 15 km from Vilamoura, Laranjal first opened its doors in 2009 and is the third course owned and operated by the Quinta do Lago estate. Set amongst 115 acres of stunning parkland this parkland-style course features plenty of lagoons and lakes that provide natural hazards for wayward shots.
Laranjal will suit the more experienced golfer. many of the holes provide a true challenge and low handicappers will welcome the chance to attack the course with plenty of risk-reward shots on offer. Play from the black tees and Laranjal measures an impressive 7043 yards, while the silver tees provide higher handicappers with an altogether more forgiving experience measuring 5442 yards.
We love Laranjal, it provides golfers with a beautiful setting and a tricky course to master.
Signature Hole
Laranjal’s signature hole is the long par-3 16th. With a stroke average that’s closer to a 4, this hole is a true test of skill, especially when played from the gold tees, which measure 200 yards plus.
One of the most striking features of this hole is the strong wind that often blows, making it even more challenging. Add to that the out-of-bounds on the left and the undulating green, and it’s clear that even reaching the putting surface in regulation won’t guarantee a par.
The South Course at Quinta do Lago has some serious pedigree. Designed by William Mitchell and opened in 1974, it has hosted the Portugal Open on eight occasions and provides some indication of the quality you can expect when you play here.
The South Course can be long if you choose to play from the Championship tees at a distance of 7100 yards, but like the other golf courses at Quinta do Lago, you can choose to play the altogether forgiving yellow tees at 6420 yards.
The South Course is perfect for experienced golfers looking for that “Championship grade” golf course. The setting is simply superb and you’ll struggle to find a blade of grass out of place here. If the green fee is within your budget, we highly recommend experiencing this track at least once during your visit to the Algarve.
Signature Hole
The 16th is the signature hole of the Quinta do Lago South Course. This 407-yard par-4 dog-legs slightly to the left and opens up to a green that has one of the most spectacular backdrops of the entire course. Water surrounds the green but at a distance far enough away so as not to cause any significant concern.
The North Course at the Quinta do Lago Resort provides a slightly easier challenge than its sister courses. If you’re new to golf or have a higher handicap then this would be our pick of the three.
Opened in 1972 and originally named Ria Formosa after the nature reserve that surrounds the area, be prepared for some of the finest backdrops of any golf course in the region. A significant redevelopment in 2014 at a cost of €14million, has brought clever use of water and bunkers to the forefront, making for a visually stunning course that will leave a lasting impression.
Signature Hole
Undoubtedly, one of the most visually striking holes on The North Course is the 12th, a par 4 that measures 395 yards. The North Course’s signature hole features a 3-acre lake that players need to clear to reach the green.
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Best Golf Courses in Vilamoura With Green Fees
Posted by: Sumaira
on June 21, 2023
There are 6 golf courses in Vilamoura, two of which comfortably rank amongst the best in the Algarve. If you’re staying in the town centre, they are easily accessible offering some superb rounds of golf. But not all golf courses are created equally and some will be more suitable than others.
Our handy guide to the best golf courses in Vilamoura can help you pick the perfect course for your needs. So whether you’re a complete beginner or a scratch golfer, we’ll help you find the perfect course to play.
The Old Course was the first golf course in Vilamoura to open its doors in 1969. Designed by Frank Pennick Junior, The Old Course underwent major renovations in 1997 and offers golfers a classic design that utilises the natural contours of the land.
Signature Hole
The 8th hole is as tricky as it is beautiful. At stroke index 1, this 418-yard, par-4 has a bunker guarding the left to catch any wayward tee shots. From there, the hole gently do-legs right towards the green where 2 bunkers protect the green on the left-hand side. Make a par here and you’re having a good round.
Victoria is Dom Pedro’s flagship course. Designed by none other than Arnold Palmer, it's hosted the DP World Tour’s, Portugal Masters every year since 2007. Victoria opened in 2004 at a cost of €18 million and is set up for tour events and is quite the coup for golf in Vilamoura. Competition tees are set far enough back to challenge even the most accomplished golfers. A large clubhouse capable of catering to huge events completes the setup.
Signature Hole
Arnold Palmer chose the 17th at Victoria as his signature hole and who are we to argue? Teeing off over water, the aquatic theme continues down the right-hand side on this 557-yard par-5 hole. Once you’ve cleared the water, play a safe iron down the fairway avoiding the bunker on the left. From there you’ll have a stunning approach to the green. However, leak your 2nd shot right and you’ll have to judge a tricky wedge over water and onto the green.
Vila Sol is often overlooked when booking a golf trip to Vilamoura, such is the dominance of the Dom Pedro Golf Courses. Vila Sol sits at the top of the list for a golf holiday to Vilamoura in our opinion, as Vila Sol Golf Resort provides everything you need without ever needing to leave the complex.
Couple the superb accommodation with an immaculately presented 27-hole golf course and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a varied golf trip.
The course is split into three loops of nine holes: The Prime Loop, The Challenge Loop and the Prestige Loop, enabling three different course layouts to play during your visit. Each loop has its own, unique layout and challenges, making it worth playing several times for the full experience.
Signature Hole
Hole 7 is Vila Sol’s signature hole. At 197 yards from the competition tees, this par-3 requires you to carry a large body of water to reach the green. It’s a demanding tee shot by any standard. It’s advisable to leave your tee shot below the hole, as anything long will require a tricky downhill putt.
Pinhal opened in 1976, making it one of the older golf courses in Vilamoura. Designed by Frank Pennick Junior, Pinhal offers a wide variety of holes and manages to hold the attention of any golfer. Pinhal isn’t the most challenging of courses in Vilamoura and will suit golfers of all abilities. It’s an excellent course for large groups with varying abilities and is perfect for beginners or those still getting to grips with the game.
Signature Hole
The 8th hole at Pinhal is a “proper” par-3. Measuring 161 yards off the white tees, you need to carry your shot over the water that covers the front of a two-tiered green. To add to the complexity, there are three bunkers to catch any wayward tee shots. One is front left beyond the water. The second and third are at the back. Precision is key to getting your par here.
As the name suggests, Laguna places great emphasis on water in the course design. Many of the holes feature lakes or streams and avoiding them is the key to conquering it.
Designed by Joseph Lee and opened in 1990, Laguna was originally part of a 27-hole setup. At the turn of the century, a further 9 holes were added and two distinct golf courses were created and Millennium and Laguna were born.
Laguna occupies the flatter lower-lying land and provides a links-like feel. It’s very playable for beginners and larger groups and is one of the cheaper golf courses in Vilamoura. Laguna is a superb course to start your golf holiday in Vilamoura.
Signature Hole
The 9th is Laguna's signature hole. A 413-yard par-4, that slopes gently to the left features water all the way down the righthand side of the fairway. A bunker to the left lurks for anyone that tries to push their tee shot out left. From there, a straightforward approach shot awaits to the green.
Opened at the turn of the century, Millennium is Vilamoura’s newest golf course after a further 9 holes were added to Laguna. Millennium and Laguna have the same green fees and are therefore one of the cheaper options in the town. It offers another superb option for higher handicappers and larger groups with varying abilities.
Millennium’s best holes can be found between 3-7, where you’ll cross the road over to hillier terrain with narrow fairways and beautiful pine trees. These holes alone make Millennium worth playing.
Signature Hole
The 165-yard par-3 is Millennium’s signature hole. Water lies in wait for any tee shorts that leak left, while a large bunker on the right will catch you out if you fade it too much.
While there are six golf courses in Vilamoura, travel a short distance outside of the town and you’ll discover a plethora of other golf courses, many of which we consider to be some of the best golf courses in the Algarve.
Located just 10km southeast of Vilamoura, Vale do Lobo hosts two must-play courses for any discerning golf visiting the area. The Royal Course is set amongst opulent villas, home to the rich and famous who frequent the area during the summer months.
Standards are impeccable at the Royal Course, with beautifully manicured greens and bright white sand in the bunkers. Designed by Sir Henry Cotton (architect of several other Algarve golf courses) and opened in 1969, Vale do Lobo was extended in 1997 by Rocky Roquemore to create the two golf courses that exist today.
Atlantic pines and ostentatious villas frame much of the golf course and there are plenty of challenging holes to test your skills. That being said, you’ll probably spend most of your round preoccupied with anticipation as you await to play the 16th.
Signature Hole
There can only be one signature hole at Vale do Lobo Royal and that’s the 16th hole. This 220-yard par-3 hole plays along the cliffs with the Atlantic Ocean to your left. You’ll need to clear a gigantic ravine to reach the green. It’s safe to say it’s one of the most terrifying shots you’ll play in the Algarve.
When Vale do Lobo was extended in 1997, The Ocean Course was born. While the Royal takes many of the accolades, there are a number of holes that we prefer on the Ocean Course. Holes 3-5-6-11-14-15 all play down to the Atlantic Ocean and offer some wonderful vistas that you can soak up and enjoy.
The newer holes provide a slightly more forgiving experience and provide a welcome opportunity to let rip with the driver without coming unstuck. While many will flock to the Royal Course, we reckon the Ocean is just as good and can be less crowded.
Signature Hole
We love the 11th and gets our vote as the signature hole at the Ocean Course. A blind tee shot, followed by a mid-iron onto a green that’s practically on the beach is one to savour.
Just 15 km from Vilamoura, Laranjal first opened its doors in 2009 and is the third course owned and operated by the Quinta do Lago estate. Set amongst 115 acres of stunning parkland this parkland-style course features plenty of lagoons and lakes that provide natural hazards for wayward shots.
Laranjal will suit the more experienced golfer. many of the holes provide a true challenge and low handicappers will welcome the chance to attack the course with plenty of risk-reward shots on offer. Play from the black tees and Laranjal measures an impressive 7043 yards, while the silver tees provide higher handicappers with an altogether more forgiving experience measuring 5442 yards.
We love Laranjal, it provides golfers with a beautiful setting and a tricky course to master.
Signature Hole
Laranjal’s signature hole is the long par-3 16th. With a stroke average that’s closer to a 4, this hole is a true test of skill, especially when played from the gold tees, which measure 200 yards plus.
One of the most striking features of this hole is the strong wind that often blows, making it even more challenging. Add to that the out-of-bounds on the left and the undulating green, and it’s clear that even reaching the putting surface in regulation won’t guarantee a par.
The South Course at Quinta do Lago has some serious pedigree. Designed by William Mitchell and opened in 1974, it has hosted the Portugal Open on eight occasions and provides some indication of the quality you can expect when you play here.
The South Course can be long if you choose to play from the Championship tees at a distance of 7100 yards, but like the other golf courses at Quinta do Lago, you can choose to play the altogether forgiving yellow tees at 6420 yards.
The South Course is perfect for experienced golfers looking for that “Championship grade” golf course. The setting is simply superb and you’ll struggle to find a blade of grass out of place here. If the green fee is within your budget, we highly recommend experiencing this track at least once during your visit to the Algarve.
Signature Hole
The 16th is the signature hole of the Quinta do Lago South Course. This 407-yard par-4 dog-legs slightly to the left and opens up to a green that has one of the most spectacular backdrops of the entire course. Water surrounds the green but at a distance far enough away so as not to cause any significant concern.
The North Course at the Quinta do Lago Resort provides a slightly easier challenge than its sister courses. If you’re new to golf or have a higher handicap then this would be our pick of the three.
Opened in 1972 and originally named Ria Formosa after the nature reserve that surrounds the area, be prepared for some of the finest backdrops of any golf course in the region. A significant redevelopment in 2014 at a cost of €14million, has brought clever use of water and bunkers to the forefront, making for a visually stunning course that will leave a lasting impression.
Signature Hole
Undoubtedly, one of the most visually striking holes on The North Course is the 12th, a par 4 that measures 395 yards. The North Course’s signature hole features a 3-acre lake that players need to clear to reach the green.
