Challenging Golf Courses In Vilamoura For Top Players

A golfing hot spot

The Vilamoura area of the Algarve is home to many golf courses that will suit players of all levels. However if you are a category 1 player (5 handicap or below) you will be specifically looking for courses that challenge your game. This article lists 6 top courses in the Vilamoura area that will test your game.

Oceanico Faldo

As you would expect from the master tactician of golf, the course calls for straight hitting and strategic play. The Faldo course also offers floodlit golf for those who want to experience playing golf under the stars.

Pinhal Golf Course

This course was only the second built in Vilamoura and is part of the Oceanico golf complex. The original designer was Frank Pennink and Robert Trent Jones Sr revamped the course in 1985. Par 72 on the scorecard, many holes have been lengthened recently to bring the total length to 6353 yards.

O’Connor Jnr Course

The O'Connor Jnr is the sister course to the Faldo layout and is a par 72 measuring 6708 yard from the back tees. Two things to look out for while playing this course are the Orange groves lining the fairways and stretch of holes nicknamed "Amen Corner" after the famous 11th, 12th and 13th holes of August National, host to the U. S. Masters.

Vale do Lobo Royal Course

The Royal Course was designed by the grandfather of Algarve golf - Sir Henry Cotton and is renowned for its spectacular cliff-top 16th hole. The other 17 holes wind through pines and add up to a Par 72.

Oceanico Victoria

This Arnold Palmer design is a new addition to the Vilamoura golf resort. The 6,505m: Par 72 course is noted for its open layout and the plethora of water hazards. A true visual delight if you can keep your ball out of the drink.

San Lorenzo

The J. Lee design is one of the more exclusive courses in the Algarve, realistically and is only open to residents of the on-site hotel: the Dona Filipa. If you need a respite from the strong Algarve sun, you can seek shade under one of many parasol pines. The closing stretch of holes cut through the Ria Formosa nature reserve so there will be plenty of wildlife around. At 6,238m from the championship tees, the course is a test without being overly long.