Set above the ocean with expansive, panoramic views over the Alvor Estuary and across the bay of Lagos in the western Algarve, Palmares Golf is a truly unique golfing destination. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this 27-hole parkland/link course blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, offering variety, challenge and unforgettable moments in every round.
While the physical beauty of Palmares’ setting is prominent, the golf course itself is challenging. Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed the golf course with the highest level of international tournament golf in mind as well as a pleasurable golf experience for members and tourists alike, which has resulted in a mixture of a parkland with authentic Links style course, ranked amongst the top 50 courses in Europe by Golf World Magazine.
This engaging course is composed of three returning nine-hole loops: the Alvor Course, the Lagos Course, and the Praia Course, that can be played in any sequence. The genius in the routing is that, depending on the sequence of play, the Palmares golf experience is varied with each nine-hole loop has its own character and ambience.
The Alvor Course- Located primarily in the northern portions of the property, the Alvor Course assumes a parkland character playing through corridors lined with mature Pine trees. Elevation change is integral to the design of this nine as most of the golf holes ascend hillsides or descend through intimate valleys. The parkland setting disappears momentarily, and the mature trees area is replaced with a series of holes that are more exposed. A momentary preview of the dunes-land holes to come is also provided in the sixth and seventh holes. As the round concludes, the course ascends once again into the parkland character.
The Lagos Course- The Lagos Course begins with the same parkland character taking the player down to the beach with superb views. This course incorporates the only two lakes found on the entire site in the short par 3 third hole and the long par 4 sixth hole. Holes seven and eight immerse golfers into the expansive dunes-land on the southwestern portion of the site. The round concludes ascending to the clubhouse and transitioning back yet again into a more parkland setting.
The Praia Course- The third nine at Palmares presents the golf experience every great designer dreams of having the privilege to create: a seaside dunes-land exposed to the elements. The four seaside holes are bracketed by the beach and the rail line. The course opens descending from a parkland setting. Abruptly, the second hole whisks golfers into true coastal dunes-land. This dunes character is carried forward through the remainder of the golf course with the closing hole, a strong uphill par 5, rising back out of the dunes through a deep valley to an amphitheatre just below the clubhouse.
Few courses in Europe offer the visual spectacle of Palmares. With most tees overlooking the Atlantic, the course delivers a rare combination of coastal beauty and superb playability, with the shifting light and the ocean breeze adding a unique rhythm to every game.
Practice facilities include a 300-yard driving range, short game areas, and putting greens. The Palmares Clubhouse is the social and architectural centre of the resort, it features two dining experiences, a relaxed restaurant with Mediterranean-inspired dishes and the Michelin-starred Al Sud, led by Chef Louis Anjos.
Onsite accommodation is available at the 5-star Beach House Hotel and Palmares Signature Apartments.
