Like much of Continental Europe, the first golf courses in Portugal were created at the end of the nineteenth century and since then the sport has flourished. With an ideal climate for golf, and with land available that is ideally suited to excellent golf courses, Portugal has quickly become established as one of Europe's premier golfing destinations.
Vilamoura Old Course, Portugal
The Algarve has been central to any guide to golf in Portugal since the development of Penina by former Open Champion Henry Cotton in the mid 1960's.
Since then the area has boomed, with many outstanding courses such as Quinta Do Lago, Vale do Lobo, whose cliff top par 3 16th is the most photographed hole in the country, Vila Sol and Vilamoura Old representing just a few of the highlights.
The historic port capital of Lisbon forms the centre of another area of excellent golf and some of the country's best courses can be found along this rugged coastline.
One of the oldest and best in the country is Estoril Golf Club, which has held the Portuguese Open on numerous occasions, whilst Quinta da Marina (pictured right) and Penha Longa provide players with a distinctive linksland feel. Sea air is also assured further north on the Silver Coast, home to the excellent Praia d'el Rey.
Golf in Portugal continues to grow and the number, quality and variety of Portuguese golf courses ensures that there continues to be something for every visitor who wishes to enjoy their favourite pastime in these ideal golfing conditions.