Monte Rei Golf Course

The North Course at Monte Rei begins with a decision. From the back tee, the 394-yard opening par 4 drops away on a right-hand dogleg, and the more ambitious line over the corner can turn the hole into a short approach. That balance of room from the tee and consequence nearer the green runs through this 7,182-yard, par-72 Jack Nicklaus Signature course. Fairways are generously shaped through mature trees and folds in the land, but the valleys and changing levels ask for sound judgement on distance and club selection. The 214-yard seventh is a strong example, a par 3 played to the largest green on the course, covering 600 square metres, where shots drifting left or right can leave a difficult recovery. With the Serra do Caldeirão beyond the course to the north and the Atlantic to the south, the high points bring long views across the Eastern Algarve.

A proper warm-up is easy to arrange, with a driving range, putting green and short-game areas close at hand. The Swing Studio adds detailed swing analysis and club fitting, while the resident PGA team can work with golfers at any level. The pace around the course is considered too, with 12 minutes between tee times. Clubs are taken from the car on arrival, then cleaned and returned after play, while a buggy bar comes round with drinks and snacks during the round. Back at the clubhouse, the locker rooms, practice facilities and restaurants make it a natural place to settle in after the final putt.

The stay is centred on villas and apartments across a 1,000-acre resort near Vila Nova de Cacela. Days away from the course can include the heated pool, gym or tennis courts, and the 24-hour concierge is useful for organising the quieter parts of an Algarve break. The Grill serves lighter meals, Veranda covers poolside food, and Executive Chef André Simão’s menu gives dinner a little more occasion without needing to leave the resort.