Vila Gale Lagos

Vila Galé Lagos makes an easy-going base for an Algarve golf break, with the beach and Atlantic views shaping the time between rounds. Palmares, the Robert Trent Jones Jr design one of the best in the Algarve, is the natural headline course, while Boavista and Espiche give the stay real variety across the western Algarve. There is a putting green on site for a short pre-round session, and the large outdoor pool covers 1,200 square metres when an afternoon away from the fairways appeals. Inside, the fashion-led public areas include work and catwalk imagery from Portuguese designers such as Ana Salazar and Miguel Vieira, giving the hotel a character beyond the usual coastal resort formula.

Palmares is played over three nine-hole courses, Alvor, Lagos and Praia, each bringing a different route through the property. Its place at number 26 in Top 100 Courses in Europe indicates the quality here, but the main appeal is the chance to return for a second round without feeling that you are replaying the same course. Boavista adds a coastal Algarve test, while Espiche works across rolling terrain where water hazards and changes in elevation ask for clear decisions from the tee. Espiche’s higher ground also opens up broad views across the surrounding countryside.

Rooms range from standard and family options to sea-view accommodation, with 112 standard rooms looking towards the sea, alongside 18 junior suites. Versátil handles buffet meals, Inevitável is the choice for evening à la carte dining, and Massa Fina serves pizza from April to October. Soul & Blues provides a relaxed drink near the lobby, while Splash keeps poolside snacks and drinks close at hand from May to October. The Satsanga spa has a heated indoor pool, hydromassage pool, sauna and steam room, and Lagos marina, the historic centre, Praia Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo are all nearby for a change of scene.