Madeira Golf Guide

The islands of Madeira and Porto Santo offer both the stunning views and temperate climate that make golfing here a privilege. Both islands offer golfer not only world class golf but also some of the most dramatic and stunning scenery of any golfing destination along with a climate that will make golfing an attractive proposition throughout the year.

Palheiro Golf, Madeira

Madeira's oldest course, Santo da Serra, opened as long ago as 1937 but it was Robert Trent Jones' 1991 redesign that pushed it to the top ranks in European golf. Today the course has 27 holes which can be played in any combination. The combination means Santo da Serra appeals to golfers of all abilities. As the regular host of Madeira Open the course has played host to some of the biggest names in European golf.

Madeira's second course, Palheiro Golf opened in 1993, Cabell B Robinson's design making use of a 200 year old country estate. A renovation followed in 2003 and today the course, complete with breathtaking views over Funchal bay, is enduringly popular with visiting golfers. The course is hilly but anybody worried about the up and down walk can hire an environmentally friendly electric buggy.

The island of Porto Santo is just a short ferry trip - or even short plane journey - away from Madeira and since 2004 has boasted of a stunning golf course designed by the legendary Seve Ballesteros. Porto Santo Golf offers 18 holes made up of two distinctive nines. The South course offers American style golf complete with lakes and hazards while the clifftop North course offers a challenge much more similar to traditional links golf. Porto Santo has proved how quickly established itself after being awarded the 2009 European Open.

With three world class destinations spread over the two islands, Madeira looks set to be a winning destination for the discerning golfer for years to come.