For expats who are considering moving to Portugal, the country’s impressive array of golf courses is just one of the many reasons to consider Portugal as their new home.
With courses designs by some of the world’s most reknown architects and a golfing season that lasts almost all year-round, Portugal offers golfers of all levels an unparalleled experience.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best golf courses in Portugal that expats should consider when looking for their next golfing destination.
Golf in Portugal
Golf is a popular sport in Portugal, with a long history and a strong tradition of hosting international tournaments. The country is home to over 90 golf courses, many of which are locate in the southern region of the Algarve.
Portugal’s golf courses are known for their high-quality designs, scenic locations, and challenging layouts. Many of the courses designs by world-renown golf architects, such as Robert Trent Jones Sr. Rocky Roquemore, and Severiano Ballesteros.
The Algarve region is particularly well-known for its golf courses, with several courses consistently ranks among the top courses in Europe. Some of the most popular courses in the Algarve include Quinta do Lago South, Vale do Lobo Royal, and San Lorenzo Golf Course.
These courses offer spectacular views of the coastline and challenging layouts that attract golfers from around the world.
In recent years, Portugal also become a popular destination for golfing holidays and golf tourism. The country offers a wide range of golf packages and deals, making it an affordable and accessible destination for golf enthusiasts.
Who plays Golf in Portugal
Golf in Portugal is a popular pastime for both locals and tourists. According to the latest data from the Portuguese Golf Federation, there are over 35,000 register golfers in Portugal.
Portugal’s golf courses attract golfers of all skill levels, from beginners to professionals, with a variety of courses that offer different levels of difficulty. The courses are often set against beautiful backdrops, including dramatic coastline, rolling hills, and lush forests.
Tourists are a significant contributor to the golfing industry in Portugal, with a large number of golfers visiting the country every year.
The majority of visitors come from the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, and Scandinavia. In 2019, there were over 1.2 million rounds of golf plays in Portugal, and approximately 80% of those rounds plays by foreign visitors.
Retirees, families, and business travelers also play golf in Portugal. Many retirees from northern European countries choose Portugal as their retirement destination, often citing the country’s warm climate and excellent golf facilities as reasons for their choice.
Families traveling to Portugal for vacation also frequently take advantage of the country’s golf courses, as many courses offer family-friendly amenities and activities in addition to golf.
In addition to recreational golfers, Portugal also hosts several professional golf tournaments each year. The European Tour’s Portugal Masters is one of the biggest events on the Portuguese golf calendar, with top golfers from around the world competing for the title.
The Ladies European Tour also hosts the Ladies Open Portugal, which attracts some of the best female golfers in the world.
Best golf courses in Algarve for expats
Quinta do Lago South
The Quinta do Lago South golf course is a highly regarding championship course situated in the Algarve region of Portugal
The course is for its pristine condition and features a mix of parkland and pine forest landscapes. Golfers will face many challenges including strategically placed bunkers, elevated greens, and water hazards.
- Location: Quinta do Lago resort, Almancil, Portugal
- Length: 6,500 meters (7,099 yards)
- Par: 72
- Design by: William Mitchell
- Establish in: 1974
- Fees: Green fees range from €150-€225
Vale do Lobo Royal
The Vale do Lobo Royal golf course is another championship course locates in the Algarve region of Portugal. The course features stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding countryside. Golfers will encounter a mix of challenging holes including uphill and downhill shots, doglegs, and strategically placed water hazards.
- Location: Vale do Lobo resort, Almancil, Portugal
- Length: 6,090 meters (6,654 yards)
- Par: 72
- Designed by: Sir Henry Cotton
- Establishs in: 1997
- Fees: Green fees range from €135-€205
San Lorenzo Golf Course
The San Lorenzo Golf Course is situate in the beautiful Ria Formosa nature reserve in the Algarve region of Portugal.
The course is known for its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa estuary.
The course features a mix of parkland and links-style holes, as well as strategically placed bunkers and water hazards.
- Location: Quinta do Lago resort, Almancil, Portugal
- Length: 6,238 meters (6,820 yards)
- Par: 72
- Designs by: Joseph Lee
- Establishs in: 1988
- Fees: Green fees range from €155-€240
Dom Pedro Old Course
The Dom Pedro Old Course is one of the oldest golf courses in the Algarve region of Portugal. The course is situated in a stunning pine forest and features many dogleg holes, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards.
- Location: Vilamoura, Portugal
- Length: 6,139 meters (6,708 yards)
- Par: 73
- Designed by: Frank Pennink
- Established in: 1969
- Fees: Green fees range from €120-€210
Dom Pedro Victoria Course
The Dom Pedro Victoria Course is another championship golf course situated in the Algarve region of Portugal. The course is known for its wide fairways, large greens, and strategically placed bunkers. The course has hosted several major golf tournaments including the Portugal Masters.
- Location: Vilamoura, Portugal
- Length: 6,560 meters (7,164 yards)
- Par: 72
- Designed by: Arnold Palmer
- Established in: 2004
- Fees: Green fees range from €100-€220
Best golf courses in Lisbon for expats
Oitavos Dunes
Located in Cascais, Oitavos Dunes is considered one of the best golf courses in Portugal. The course has been ranks as one of the top 100 courses in the world by Golf Magazine. The course is set in a beautiful landscape with views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sintra Mountains, and the Cabo da Roca lighthouse.
- Location: Cascais, Portugal
- Length: 6,303 meters (6,889 yards)
- Par: 71
- Designed by: Arthur Hills
- Established in: 2001
- Fees: Green fees range from €95-€195
West Cliffs
Located in Óbidos, West Cliffs is a relatively new golf course that was designed by Cynthia Dye. The course opened in 2017 and has already received numerous awards, including being ranked as the best new golf course in the world by the World Golf Awards in 2017. The course is set in a stunning landscape with views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Óbidos Lagoon.
- Location: Óbidos, Portugal
- Length: 6,382 meters (6,982 yards)
- Par: 72
- Designed by: Cynthia Dye
- Established in: 2017
- Fees: Green fees range from €70-€180
Terras da Comporta Dunas
Located in Comporta, Terras da Comporta Dunas is a newer course designed by Jorge Santana da Silva. The course is set in a natural landscape with rolling dunes, cork trees, and rice paddies. It measures 6,403 meters in length and has a par of 72. The course is known for its challenging fairways and fast greens.
- Location: Comporta, Portugal
- Length: 6,200 meters (6,781 yards)
- Par: 72
- Designed by: Jorge Santana da Silva
- Established in: 2020
- Fees: Green fees range from €50-€105
Belas Clube de Campo
Located in Belas, near Lisbon, Belas Clube de Campo is a course designed by William “Rocky” Roquemore. The course is set in a stunning landscape with views of the Sintra Mountains and the Tagus River. The course is known for its challenging water hazards and tricky greens.
- Location: Sintra, Portugal
- Length: 6,128 meters (6,698 yards)
- Par: 72
- Designed by: Rocky Roquemore
- Established in: 1997
- Fees: Green fees range from €75-€120
Quinta da Marinha Golf Course
Quinta da Marinha Golf Course: Located in Cascais, Quinta da Marinha Golf Course is a course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. The course is set in a beautiful landscape with views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Sintra Mountains. The course is known for its challenging fairways and bunkers.
- Location: Cascais, Portugal
- Length: 5,870 meters (6,417 yards)
- Par: 71
- Designed by: Robert Trent Jones Sr.
- Established in: 1984
- Fees: Green fees range from €68-€120
Best golf courses in Porto for expats
Estela Golf Club
Estela Golf Club is a challenging links-style course locate in Póvoa de Varzim, just north of Porto. The course is set within a natural dune landscape and features several water hazards, making it a great test for golfers of all levels.
- Location: Póvoa de Varzim, Portugal
- Length: 6,300 meters (6,890 yards)
- Par: 72
- Designed by: Duarte Sottomayor
- Established in: 1989
- Fees: Green fees range from €45-€90
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Vidago Palace Golf Course
Vidago Palace Golf Course is a beautifully landscape course set in the northern region of Trás-os-Montes. The course was designed by Cameron & Powell and offers a mix of parkland and woodland holes with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Location: Vidago, Portugal
- Length: 6,308 meters (6,897 yards)
- Par: 72
- Designs by: Cameron & Powell
- Established in: 1936 (renovated in 2010)
- Fees: Green fees range from €80-€115
Amarante Golf Course
Amarante Golf Course is situate in the Amarante valley and features a mix of parkland and mountain-style holes. The course is surrounded by the Marão mountain range and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Designed by Jorge Santana da Silva, this 18-hole course is a must-play for golf enthusiasts.
- Location: Amarante, Portugal
- Length: 5,033 meters (5,503 yards)
- Par: 68
- Designed by: Jorge Santana da Silva
- Established in: 1997
- Fees: Green fees range from €45-€75
Miramar Golf Club
Miramar Golf Club is located in the coastal town of Vila Nova de Gaia, just south of Porto. The course offers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area, with several holes playing alongside the beach. Designs by Philip Mackenzie Ross, this 18-hole course is knowing for its challenging layout and stunning scenery.
- Location: Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
- Length: 6,156 meters (6,725 yards)
- Par: 72
- Design by: Mackenzie Ross
- Establishs in: 1932 (renovated in 2017)
- Fees: Green fees range from €50-€75
Best golf courses in Madeira for expats
Palheiro Golf Course
Palheiro Golf Course is locate on the island of Madeira and features spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape. Designs by Cabell B. Robinson, the course offers a mix of parkland and mountain-style holes, with many challenging uphill and downhill shots.
- Location: Funchal, Madeira
- Length: 6,656 meters (7,289 yards)
- Par: 72
- Designs by: Cabell B. Robinson
- Established in: 1993
- Fees: Green fees range from €60-€130
Santo da Serra Golf Club
Santo da Serra Golf Club is another beautiful course locate on the island of Madeira. The course was designs by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and features a challenging layout with narrow fairways and small greens. The course is set within a stunning natural landscape, with several holes offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Location: Machico, Madeira
- Length: 6,825 meters (7,463 yards)
- Par: 72
- Designed by: Robert Trent Jones Sr.
- Establishes in: 1937 (renovated in 1991)
- Fees: Green fees range from €52-€84
Porto Santo Golf Course
Porto Santo Golf Course is locates on the island of Porto Santo and is knowing for its stunning coastal views and challenging layout. Designs by Spanish golf architect Seve Ballesteros, the course features wide fairways and large greens, but also has several water hazards and bunkers that make it a challenging course for players of all levels. The course is also home to one of the longest par-5 holes in Europe, measuring over 600 yards.
- Location: Porto Santo, Madeira
- Length: 6,434 meters (7,036 yards)
- Par: 72
- Designs by: Severiano Ballesteros
- Established in: 2004
- Fees: Green fees range from €68-€106
It's a good investment to buy a property near a golf course?
Buying a property near a golf course can a sound investment for various reasons.
Location
One of the primary reasons is the location of the golf course. Golf courses are typically located in desirable and scenic areas with well-maintain landscapes, providing a pleasant and peaceful living environment. This can increase the desirability and value of properties in the area.
Affluent individuals
Golf courses often attract affluent individuals who enjoy the sport and the lifestyle associates with it. This can result in a higher demand for properties in the area, driving up prices and making it a potentially lucrative investment opportunity. The demand for properties in these areas is not just limits to golf enthusiasts but also to people who are looking for luxury, relaxation, and security.
Several of amenities
Furthermore, golf courses offer a range of amenities that can enhance the quality of life for residents. Many golf courses have fine dining restaurants, fitness centers, and spas that can access by members or residents living near the course. These amenities can add to the overall appeal of the area and attract potential buyers.
Security measures
In addition to the amenities, golf courses often have added security measures in place such as gated communities, security personnel, and surveillance cameras. These measures provide added peace of mind for residents and make the area more attractive to buyers. Security measures in these areas are typically better and more effective than in other residential areas.
Rental income
Properties near golf courses may be attractive to renters, particularly those who enjoy golfing. If you plan to rent out the property, it is important to consider the rental income potential.
How can I find a property near a golf course in Portugal?
If you are looking to buy a property near a golf course in Portugal, there are several ways to start your search. One option is to use online property portals, such as Idealista or Casa Sapo, to browse properties for sale near golf courses.
These portals allow you to filter your search results by location, price range, and other specific features you are looking for in a property.
Another option is to contact a local real estate agent. They may have access to properties that are not publicly listed online and can help you find the perfect property that suits your needs and budget. It’s always a good idea to work with a reputable agent who is familiar with the local market and can provide guidance throughout the buying process.
You can also check out golf course communities in Portugal that offer properties for sale. Contact the golf course directly or search their website to find out if they have any properties available for sale.
Additionally, you can check local newspapers and magazines in the area near the golf course. They often have real estate sections with properties for sale, including those near golf courses.
Moving to Portugal
I am an EU Citizen
If you intend to stay in Portugal for more than three months, it is mandatory to apply for a registration certificate. The application can be submitted upon arrival in the country, and once approved, the certificate is valid for up to five years.
I am a non-EU Citizen
If you are a non-EU national planning to reside in Portugal, you must apply for a Portuguese residency visa before your move. After your visa expires, you will be required to obtain a residence permit.
For Americans considering a move to Portugal, we recommend reading our comprehensive guide to learn about important considerations for moving from the US to Portugal.
D7 Psssive Income Visa
D7 visa, which is perfect for retirees or those with passive income. This visa requires proof of regular income or savings, and the ability to support yourself without working in Portugal. It’s a great option for those looking to enjoy the country’s relaxed lifestyle and stunning natural beauty.
Digital Nomad Visa
Digital nomad visa for remote workers and freelancers allow them to live and work in the country for up to a year, enjoying all the benefits of the Portuguese lifestyle while earning an income from their remote job or business.
D2 Entrepreneur Visa
D2 Entrepreneur Visa in case you are an entrepreneur looking to start or develop a business in Portugal, which allows you to obtain a residence permit for up to two years.
D3 Highly-qualified worker Visa
If you have high qualifications and extensive experience in a particular field you may be eligible for the D3 visa.
