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EASTERN ALGARVE
The 30 miles of coastline between Faro airport and the River Guadiana offers a warm welcome for those who prefer to make their own discoveries.
While others may choose to follow the well-trodden paths of others and opt for familiarity, some enjoy the prospect of spreading their wings to encounter something a little different.
Secluded beaches and sleepier port towns present an opportunity to slow down and take in the views a little more than some of the more fast-paced locations in the Algarve.
One of golf’s most famous champions has left his own footprint on Algarve soil in the shape of Quinta do Vale – devised by the much-missed Seve Ballesteros.
As a golfer, he was widely-regarded as a genius. As course designer, his unique vision has been turned into reality with his trademark collection of six par-threes, six par-fours, and six par-fives, and plenty of other mischievous Ballesteros additions to complement the challenge.
The ocean is a major feature at Quinta da Ria and Quinta de Cima, two sister courses, which have both continued to grow in stature since their opening in 2002.
Quinta da Ria is a Rocky Roquemore layout, which carves its way through the woodlands and wetlands of the unspoilt Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, and is among the most peaceful and under-developed courses in the Algarve. Water comes into play throughout, yet despite some punishing hazards, it has been designed to be playable for all levels of golfer with the par-five 16th a real highlight.
There is no sibling rivalry between the two courses, as Quinta de Cima is certainly on an equal footing. The beautiful parkland course was built with tournament golf in mind, and with accuracy essential throughout, most would agree it is the tougher of the two tracks.
The final three-hole stretch offers plenty more water to contend with, before a relaxing post-round drink or snack in the clubhouse restaurant – a former barn in the middle of an old farm – which offers a welcoming, friendly and authentic atmosphere.
At Castro Marim, which opened in 2001, three separate loops of nine holes each require a stern test of distance controls with so many elevated greens to hit.
The resort also includes top-notch practice facilities and features an abundance of wildlife. Players may even get the opportunity to spot the elusive Iberian lynx.
Just a few kilometres east of the ancient city of Tavira brimming with Portuguese culture and charm, the Sir Henry Cotton-designed Benamor Golf, is one of many picturesque courses in the region. Sitting in the foothills of Barrocal, fantastic mountain and sea views are on offer. It may not grab the headlines of some of the Algarve’s other golf courses, but certainly deserves its own special place.
One course which has set its sights towards the very top of the tree on the golfing landscape is the spectacular Monte Rei (pictured at top). The Jack Nicklaus Signature Course is situated in rolling hills among some 1,000 acres of glorious countryside.
The Golden Bear has lent his name to many golf courses around the globe but Monte Rei was a hands-on project by one of golf’s icons.
Bunkers are deep and punishing, but the level of service and maintenance is of the very highest, although it retains its natural appearance. Nicklaus remains a wily operator and it’s typical of him that risk and reward are constantly thrown at you from every angle.
Several large lakes are just part of the challenge which almost carries a Nicklaus-style mischievous grin with every hole on the course.
While it is deemed the Algarve’s best by some, there are plenty of contenders both in the eastern region and the rest of the Algarve.
Perhaps the only way of really knowing is to play them all for yourself and make up your own mind ...
