The Western European country of Portugal has been a favorite golfing destination for Europeans for many decades. Golfers from outside Europe will naturally be drawn to the surrounding countries of Spain (for the weather and championship courses) and the British Isles (for the rich golfing heritage) but it is perhaps time to give Portugal a second look.

In the past thirty years the Portuguese golfing industry has really taken off and is finally maturing with a number of regions containing excellent golf resorts and a high caliber of courses to play.

The principal regions for golf holidays in Portugal are the Algarve, the environs of Lisbon (the capital city of Portugal) and the island of Madeira. Each offers a different golfing experience and courses to suit all budgets.

Lisbon and the Estoril coast region offers the fullest range of accommodation price-wise, combined with the wonderful backdrop of the Sintra mountain range. Combine this with an array of dining options that you’d expect from a modern European capital.

For some, the Algarve region is the real home of Portuguese golf given its warm climate (making it an ideal year-round location) and the standard of resorts, villas, restaurants and golf clubs. Western Algarve has the added challenge of Atlantic breezes to contend with so clubs like the scenic Boavista, the Penina Championship Course and the two Oceanico courses (designed by Nick Faldo & Christy O’Connor) provide real golfing challenges.

The central area hosts Vilamoura, a range of top-class courses, plush hotels and holiday resorts. The Oceanico golf clubs are highlights of the area especially the Old Course which is a ‘must-play’ course to this area. To the east, the climate becomes a little cooler and the courses become a little more elite and pricey with the Jack Nicklaus designed Monte Rei being the jewel of the area.

The island of Madeira (a small island 500 kilometers due west of the Algarve in the North Atlantic) is a different proposition. It prides itself as a paradise island location and it is truly that.

For the avid golfer, this island provides 3 exceptional courses to play. So, while it doesn’t have the breadth of course choices to offer, it can definitely provide for an idyllic golf location for those seeking something different.

The one region that is lagging behind the others is the Oeste region which doesn’t have the championship clubs and plush resorts found elsewhere. But if you are seeking some tranquility then the pleasant golf clubs, scenic drives and charming villages could make for a relaxing golfing break.

The cost of green fees is quite variable. For good quality golf green fees at 50 minimum for a round of golf. The average cost for 18 holes though would be closer to 75 to 90 a round.

Generally, a round of golf can be booked online with many courses and there are now various service providers online offering this tee times booking service, sometimes at a discount to the ‘turn-up’ fee (cost if you just walked in for a round).

Looking for European golfing breaks? For the perfect golf holiday, the Algarve, Estoril and the other Portuguese regions have it all. Visit the Golf Holidays Portugal website to learn more.

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