Quinta da Ria Golf Course

Surrounded by the rugged and wild terrain of the protected land known as “Sotarento”, Quinta da Ria and its sister course, Quinta da Cima, provide a perfect haven away from commercialization, noisy building sites, and villa-lined fairways. The fairly flat parkland course boasts a challenging breeze that adds to the excitement and difficulty of the game.

Quinta da Ria is dotted with thousands of ancient olive and carob trees and features five serene lakes that add to the scenic beauty of the flat terrain. These natural features combined with the impeccable maintenance of the course, make Quinta da Ria a golfing paradise that is sure to provide a memorable experience for golfers of all abilities.

Host of Many Prestigious Competitions

• Over the years, Quinta da Ria has played host to several high-profile golfing events:
• PGA Europro Tour in 2003 and 2004
• Portugal Algarve Seniors Open 2005
• European Seniors Tour Qualifying/School in 2006, 2007
• 2008, Portugal Algarve Ladies Open 2008
• BMW Golf Cup International 2008
• Algarve Pro Golf Tour 2017

Course Design

Quinta da Ria Golf Course, designed by the world-renowned golf course architect Rocky Roquemore, is a testament to the beauty of golf course design.

The course is located in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, which is a protected area, and Roquemore made full use of the natural landscape to create a course that is both visually stunning and challenging for all golfers.

The course is built around five man-made lakes that are the focal point of the landscape, providing a serene backdrop that golfers will appreciate as they make their way through each hole. In addition, over 300 trees have been planted around the course, ensuring that the environment remains intact and that golfers are surrounded by a lush green landscape that is both beautiful and peaceful.

The course is divided into two loops of nine holes, each loop with two Par 5, five Par 4, and two Par 3 holes. The course design allows for a variety of different shot types, with several holes requiring precision shots over the lakes, while others require long drives to navigate the fairways.

One of the key features of the course design is the restriction on construction, ensuring that the integrity of the environment remains intact.

This focus on environmental preservation, combined with the course’s natural setting, makes Quinta da Ria Golf Course one of the most unique and breathtaking courses in the world.

The grass type used on the course is Bent Crenshaw, which provides golfers with an excellent playing surface on the fairways, tees, and greens.

Course Information

Quinta da Ria Golf Course is a par 72 course that is designed to provide a good challenge for all standards of golfer.

The competition tees measure at 6620 yards, while the yellow tees measure at 6463 yards, and the red tees at 5443 yards.

To play at Quinta da Ria Golf Course, men and women are required to have a handicap of 36 or below.

Quinta da Ria Slope Rating

Quinta da Ria Golf Course has a slope rating that varies depending on the tee used.
The competition tees have a slope rating of 131, the yellow tees have a slope rating of 130, and the red tees have a slope rating of 125.

Course Layout

Starting with the first hole, a par-5 measuring 519 yards, you’ll be taken down a gentle slope towards the first of several undulating greens. While the fairway is generous, it’s important to keep your tee shot straight to avoid the numerous bunkers guarding the green.

The fifth hole is a standout par-3 that will truly put your accuracy to the test. With two different teeing areas, both requiring a good shot over a lake, you’ll need to be in the zone to catch the shallow green which is well-guarded by bunkers.

As you make your way through the back nine, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the sea. The par-4 10th hole is a true monster, measuring 462 yards from the back tees with out-of-bounds all down the left side and a large lake guarding the green. A perfect drive followed by a long second over the lake will give you a shot at par and the chance to really elevate your game.

The 13th hole is a tough par-3 measuring 188 metres from the back tee and running parallel with the Ria Formosa. The green is almost entirely encircled by bunkers, leaving little room for error on your approach shot. At just 24 yards wide, it’s clear that precision is key on this hole.

The 14th hole, a dogleg left par-4 measuring 364 yards, presents water to the right on the drive and more inviting water to the left on the approach shot. It’s a hole that requires a strategic approach and a well-executed shot to the green.

Finally, the 18th hole is a generous par-5 measuring 519 yards. While the fairway is wide, the green is almost entirely surrounded by bunkers, so accuracy is still crucial on this final hole.

The Greens

The greens of Quinta da Ria Golf Course are truly exceptional. They are large, fast and undulating, offering a challenge to even the most experienced golfer. The subtle borrows and undulations on the greens are sure to keep players on their toes, with every putt presenting a unique set of challenges.

To make things even more challenging, the greens are well protected by bunkers, adding an extra layer of difficulty to each hole. They serve as a constant reminder of the hazards that lie ahead.

One thing that stands out about the greens is the quality of maintenance. The course staff clearly take great pride in ensuring that the greens are kept in prestine condition at all times. This means that golfers can expect consistent speed and roll, no matter when they play here.

Quinta da Ria Signature Hole

As you make your way through the Quinta da Ria Golf Course, you’ll find two holes that stand out from the rest, and they are none other than the 16th and 17th.

These two holes will test every aspect of your game, and a good score on either one of them can be the difference between a great round or a mediocre one.

The 16th is a challenging par five that requires a carefully planned strategy to avoid the two large lakes that guard the fairway.

A sharp dogleg right and then left will test your accuracy, and if you’re not careful, your ball might end up in the water.

The green is closely tucked behind the second lake, adding to the difficulty of this hole. You can play it safe and try for par or go for it and risk it all for a chance at birdie.

The 17th hole at Quinta da Ria Golf Course is an icon in its own right, with a small island on the lake that’s home to some rare bird species.

This picturesque hole requires precision and accuracy from the tee, as the water hazards come into play right from the start.

Once you’ve safely navigated the water, you’ll find a green that’s well guarded by bunkers and requires a well-placed shot to find the target.

Get through these two signature holes unscathed, and you’ll have memories to last a lifetime.

To Conclude

In conclusion, Quinta da Ria is a true hidden gem, nestled in a tranquil and less crowded part of the Algarve. This excellent new course is a must-visit for any avid golfer.

Not only will players be met with impeccably maintained fairways and undulating greens, but they’ll also have the opportunity to appreciate the stunning natural surroundings.

With a diverse array of wildlife calling this area home, golfers can take a moment to soak in the beauty of their surroundings while enjoying a round of golf.

Quinta da Ria is the perfect escape for golfers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the busier parts of the Algarve, and it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on any player who takes on its challenges.