Pestana Gramacho

Gramacho makes repeat rounds part of its appeal. The 6,681 yard, par 72 layout uses 27 greens and a choice of tees, so the line into a green and the demands from the tee can change from one day to the next. Ronald Fream created the course with Nick Price, working mature carob trees into the design rather than clearing the ground, and some of those trees have been standing for centuries. It is a course that rewards sensible positioning, particularly when the fairways thread through established vegetation, yet the range of tees keeps it approachable for higher handicaps. Its credentials extend to qualifying events for the European Seniors Tour and Ladies European Tour, though the round retains the relaxed pace that suits a Carvoeiro break.

Before playing, there is a putting green beside the clubhouse, while Pestana’s academy programme provides areas for swing work, putting and the short game, with professional tuition available for golfers looking to sharpen a particular part of their game. The clubhouse is at the centre of the resort, with changing rooms, a pro shop and hire available for clubs, trolleys and buggies. Golf shoes are required on the course, and buggy players follow a 90 degree route from path to ball, helping keep the turf in good order through the season.

The natural place to settle after the 18th is the clubhouse restaurant and bar. Its terrace looks across the finishing hole towards the Monchique mountains, a good setting for a cold drink while later groups come home. Portuguese dishes sit alongside familiar international options, and the buggy bar is useful for something more casual between rounds. Food and drink are served daily from 7am until 10pm, which gives early starters and afternoon golfers an easy rhythm around the day.