If there’s a heaven for golfers, it probably looks a lot like Vale do Lobo golf resort in the Algarve. As September’s cooler breezes roll in, the season begins again at one of Europe’s most celebrated golfing destinations, where fairways flirt with the Atlantic and clifftop carries dare you to trust your driver more than your nerve.
For many, this is the sweet spot of the year to take to Portugal’s fairways, and Vale do Lobo golf has two absolute stunners to keep even the most spoiled golfer happy.
The par-72 Royal Golf Course, designed by Rocky Roquemore from original sketches by the legendary Sir Henry Cotton, is as dramatic as they come. The island green at the 9th and the iconic clifftop 16th—one of the most photographed holes in Europe—are enough to turn your palms sweaty and your Instagram smug. With rolling fairways framed by pines, lakes, and wildflowers, it’s golf with a postcard view at every turn.
Not to be outdone, the Ocean Golf Course is a par-73 beauty that drifts alongside the Ria Formosa nature reserve before easing down to the Atlantic shoreline. Also penned by Sir Henry Cotton, it has been thrilling players for over four decades, and thanks to recent enhancements, it’s sharper than ever—like a seasoned pro who still knows how to hit a 5-iron flush when it matters.
More Than Just Golf
Vale do Lobo isn’t just about testing your swing. The Golf Shop is a fashion runway disguised as a pro shop, with everything from Titleist and TaylorMade gear to designer threads by J.Lindeberg, Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren, and Calvin Klein. They’ve even got their own Vale do Lobo branded kit for those who like to wear their holiday smugness on their sleeve.
The clubhouse is another highlight, a gathering spot where golfers swap tall tales over pints, cocktails, or the odd golf-inspired concoction at Spikes lounge and cocktail bar. Chef Maurice Belhaj and his family serve dishes that could make you forget the scorecard—think duck breast salad with foie gras, roasted lamb carré, and an apple and blueberry crumble that’s worth duffing a few chips just to justify the calories.
For Every Golfer, Big and Small
Coaching is on hand for players who want to trade excuses for results, with expert professionals offering personalised sessions. Junior golfers aren’t forgotten either—the resort’s Junior Golf Academy runs during school holidays, giving young players five days of structured lessons that could turn them into tomorrow’s Ryder Cup heroes—or at least get them to stop losing balls by the dozen.
Hernâni Estêvão, Managing Director at Vale do Lobo, summed it up perfectly: “We are delighted to welcome golfers of all ages and abilities at Vale do Lobo. Our exceptional range of services and facilities ensures every player feels both welcome and challenged to excel during their time at the resort.
With golf being such a social sport, we also offer a year-round selection of exciting tournaments, competitions and other events, supporting every golfer to create cherished memories and play their best game.”
Sunshine, Scenery, and a Swing Worth Remembering
With its blend of championship courses, world-class facilities, and enough Mediterranean flair to keep non-golfers just as entertained, Vale do Lobo golf continues to set the benchmark for luxury golf in Europe.
Whether you’re there to break 80 or break in a new pair of designer golf shoes, one thing’s for certain: this resort knows how to deliver an unforgettable round.
For more information, visit www.valedolobo.com.
