Salgados Golf Course

The new par-three to an island green is the hole that fixes your attention at Salgados Golf, demanding a committed club and a calm strike from the tee. It is one of several moments where water dictates the decision. Across this level par 72, lagoons and hazards sit alongside many holes, and the coastal breeze can make a seemingly simple target play very differently from one day to the next. The setting behind Praia de Galé gives the course its open, links-style feel, with the Salgados Lagoon Nature Reserve and its birdlife never far from view. This is a round built around position, distance control and accepting that the safer line is often the sensible one.

The course has had substantial work completed for the 2025 season, including irrigation on all 18 holes, renewed bunkers and rebuilt teeing grounds that were levelled and re-turfed. The renovation also brought the island green into play and was recognised by the World Golf Awards as the leading golf course renovation of 2025. Dedicated putting, chipping and short-game areas make it easy to sharpen up before teeing off. John Wood, who has taught here since 1996 and has more than 30 years as a full-time PGA coach, offers tuition for single players and groups. Club hire, buggies and hand trolleys are available, useful for a lighter travel day.

The clubhouse restaurant and bar provide a straightforward place to linger after the final putt, while the golf shop carries clothing, equipment and accessories. There are indoor simulators too, for a virtual 18 holes, focused shot practice or a competitive game with food and drinks available in the lounge. Golf breaks can be combined with accommodation at The Westin Salgados Beach Resort, Algarve Marriott Salgados Golf Resort and Spa, or Marriott Residences Salgados Resort. Salgados Beach is close by, and Albufeira is nearby for an evening beyond the resort.