Quinta do Lago North Course

Four tee positions on every hole make the North Course a sensible choice for a mixed standard group, but the back markers still stretch this par 72 to 6,669 yards. The test is centred on approach play and recovery. Contoured greens, bunkers placed to catch an uncertain line and water hazards make the right part of the fairway worth finding. Around the putting surfaces, closely mown Bermuda grass lets you choose between a putter, a clipped chip or a lofted shot, rather than simply facing a heavy rough escape. Nine holes retain ground from Quinta do Lago’s original 27-hole design, while the 2014 work by Beau Welling and Paul McGinley reshaped the course’s greens, tees, bunkers and drainage.

Pine woodland, lakes and the protected Ria Formosa landscape frame the wider Quinta do Lago estate, where the North sits alongside the South and Laranjal courses. Seasonal rough and specimen trees give the North Course extra definition through the round, and its recycled water and solar energy systems form part of the modern rebuild. There is a practice area and driving range for a proper warm-up, with club hire, buggies, electric trolleys and a buggy bar available on site. The Paul McGinley Golf Academy also provides coaching focused on technique, mindset and consistency. After golf, KOKO beside the range is a useful relaxed stop for pizzas, salads and snacks in its shaded garden, while the clubhouses serve breakfast, lunch and drinks overlooking the fairways.

The Magnolia Hotel provides a convenient resort base, with 74 rooms and seven cabin-style cottages. Rooms have 300-thread-count cotton sheets and steam showers, and the heated outdoor pool, gym, spa and sand sports court give the non-golfing hours some shape. Faro Airport is around 20 minutes away by transfer, making the North Course particularly straightforward for a short Algarve break as well as a longer stay.