Portugal’s famous Algarve region is situated at the south of the country and on the Atlantic coast. It is becoming increasingly well-known among golf aficionados around the world – and with good reason! It offers a staggering array of world-class courses and a truly excellent collection of resorts. Among these is the spectacular Dona Filipa Hotel – the perfect place to stay on your Portuguese golfing holiday! Read on to find out what’s on offer, including a taste of some of the best nearby courses.
The Dona Filipa Hotel
This five-star hotel is situated deep in the heart of the Algarve’s golfing area, with ten courses less than a 20-minute drive away and even more a little further afield. It offers a wide range of package deals for a variety of holiday experiences, catering everything from families to business trips.
San Lorenzo Golf Course
This 18-hole par 72 course was designed by US architects Joseph Lee and Rocky Roquemore, and stands as one of the best and most beautiful in the whole country. Located in Quinta do Lago, it’s a must-see on any Portuguese golfing holiday. Its impeccably maintained fairways wind through pine woods and open out onto pristine views of the sea and mountains. It’s also close to the Ria Formosa Estuary nature reserve, which houses over 70 species of birds.
This is one of two courses that those staying at the Dona Filipa get complementary access to, along with a free bus ride to and from the hotel. What’s not to love?
Pinheiros Altos Golf Course
The second course that’s free to play for Dona Filipa residents, the 27-hole Pinheiros, is equally well-regarded on the European golf circuit. Each nine-hole loop is par 36, and golfers can mix up their experience by playing each of the three different 18-hole combinations available.
In addition to a similarly picturesque location within the Ria Formosa Estuary, Pinheiros has a striking range of facilities, from standard features such as a clubhouse, equipment hire, driving ranges and putting greens, to more upmarket offerings like video analysis bays and physiotherapy.
Penina Hotel & Golf Resort
A short way up the road in the western Algarve lies this resort, stretching over 360 acres of vibrant, lush ground and boasting three world-class golf courses. Though all its courses are excellent, the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course stands out.
The Algarve’s first 18-hole course, the Henry Cotton has hosted an astounding number of major tournaments, including ten Portuguese opens. Although you won’t get complementary access, Dona Filipa guests do receive special treatment when booking a round on any Penina course, including discounted rates.
More!
All this is just a snapshot of the great courses on offer in and around the Dona Filipa. From one side to the other, the Algarve boasts more than 35 golf courses, many of which are highly regarded and have hosted international tournaments. The area is also known for its natural beauty and fine dining. So what are you waiting for? Book your Portuguese golfing holiday now, and take advantage of all Dona Filipa and the surrounding courses have to offer.
Steve Frewin is the Managing Director of A Golfing Experience, a company with more than 29 years experience organising bespoke golf holidays and escapes throughout Europe for individuals, societies and groups. If you're looking for truly great Portuguese golfing holiday, we can help make it happen. We also operate in all the other major European golf destinations and, if you'd like to explore options further afield, we can arrange holidays to the world's greatest golf courses in The Caribbean, Mauritius, Bermuda and USA.
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