Palmares Golf Course

Five holes beside the coastal dunes give Palmares Golf its most exposed and memorable playing ground, where firm turf and the Atlantic breeze can turn a straightforward approach into a careful exercise in club selection. Robert Trent Jones Jr. shaped the 27 holes into the Alvor, Lagos and Praia loops, each returning to the clubhouse and allowing varied 18-hole combinations across a 6,905 yard, par 72 layout. Away from the shore, the course climbs through higher, tree-lined ground with changing lies and rolling fairways, while the coastal sections open towards Alvor Bay and the ocean. It is a round that rewards a controlled tee shot and a willingness to adjust to the wind rather than simply chasing distance. Before play, the academy provides six putting greens and extensive practice space with sea views, while the clubhouse gives easy access to the driving range and short-game areas.

The Beach House Hotel makes a particularly easy base for a golf stay, sitting between the 27th green and the range. Its 20 rooms, including two suites, have generous balconies facing either the sea or the course, and there is a panoramic outdoor pool and garden for the hours after golf. The hotel has an adult-oriented feel, suited to unhurried evenings after 18 holes. For food and drink, 180º serves from breakfast through dinner, Preceito focuses on contemporary Portuguese-rooted cooking, and the Clubhouse Restaurant is a relaxed option close to the course. The award-winning clubhouse also has a pro shop, lockers, reception, concierge and private parking.

Meia Praia is only 0.4 miles from the hotel, with its long 2.5 mile stretch of sand giving the resort a genuine beach element as well as golf. Lagos is around 10 minutes away for its marina, old town restaurants and evening bars, while Faro International Airport is typically 45 to 50 minutes by road.