Quinta da Ria

The front nine at Quinta da Ria makes its point with bunkering. Large sand hazards sit beside the fairways and guard the greens, so a confident tee shot still needs a clear plan for the approach. Rocky Roquemore’s par 72 course runs to 6,621 yards across gently rolling ground in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, with bent grass used from tee to green and through the rough. The lagoon is never far from view, with the Atlantic, Cacela Velha Beach and the small offshore islands forming the backdrop. The back nine brings water properly into play at the 10th, 14th and 17th, asking for sensible club selection rather than a blind attack. It is a course where the breeze, the sand and the water all matter, yet there is room to enjoy the landscape between shots.

A second 18 hole course, Cima, gives the resort a useful change of pace for a longer stay. It has broad fairways, bunkers and streams or lakes to negotiate, while olive and carob trees bring a distinctly eastern Algarve feel to the round. Practice facilities, a pro shop and the clubhouse are close at hand, making it easy to settle into the rhythm of breakfast, golf and a relaxed lunch on the terrace. Ria Terrace Restaurant has an indoor dining room with traces of the original farmhouse character, plus outdoor seating for lingering over Portuguese dishes made with local ingredients. Burgers, salads, pizzas and desserts are also on the menu when a straightforward post round meal appeals. Faro International Airport is just over 30 minutes away, so arrival day can still leave time to visit the shop, hit a few balls and take in the lagoon views before the first tee time.