Obidos is a charming Portuguese town, located close to Portugal’s beguiling capital. Sitting on the shores of the Atlantic, the opening of the majestic West Cliffs has elevated the town to a whole new level in the eyes of golf fans. Destined to be one of the world’s best courses, the Cynthia Dye design has cemented Obidos’ place as a must visit golf destination. We take a look at the region’s best courses.
Praia D’El Rey
Praia D’El Rey is one of the most beautiful links courses in Europe.
Situated one hour north of Lisbon in a unique position that distinguishes it from other courses in the Algarve and the Lisbon/Cascais area, the course meanders its way along the Silver Coast’s captivating expanse of white sandy beaches.
With views over the Atlantic and the Berlengas Islands beyond, Praia D’El Rey rivals any of Portugal’s revered layouts.
Cabett Robinson, a long-time chief collaborator of Robert Trent Jones, was the mastermind behind the picturesque seaside layout. By preserving native pines, the American was able to construct a world-class links without losing the charm of the natural landscape.
Off the course there is mile-upon-mile of golden beaches to explore. For something a little less strenuous, the luxury accommodation at the 5-star Marriott Hotel offers plenty of opportunity for rest and relaxation, including an award-winning spa.
West Cliffs
Europe’s most eagerly-awaited new golf course design, West Cliffs opened to much-acclaim last summer. The first Cynthia Dye design in Europe, the mesmerizing links is already being positioned as one of the continent’s best courses.
The spectacular par-72 seaside links offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean from every hole. The ingenious design has left the varied landscape largely undisturbed. As a result, rolling sand dunes interspersed with coastal vegetation and ocean-facing pine groves await the lucky golfer. This privileged and exclusive location will mesmerize and challenge you to tame the forces of nature and perfect your game.
Expect West Cliffs to shoot up the rankings in the coming years.
Royal Obidos Golf and Spa Resort
Spanning 6.695m (approx. 7.300 yards) off the back tees, Royal Obidos will represent a true test of golf for players of all levels.
The first hole, a generous right-handed dogleg, heads north, setting up a spectacular combination of holes overlooking the lagoon. The feature hole of the front nine is the 3rd. This picturesque 144m Par-3 off the yellow tees plays to an island green, with the stunning Óbidos lagoon in the background.
The second nine holes overlook the Atlantic Ocean. Six of the holes meander between an intricate ecosystem of lakes interconnected by cascading streams. The highlight of the back nine is the 18th, a 490m Par 5 off the yellow tees, with a panoramic over the back nine, the clubhouse and the Ocean beyond.
The clubhouse offers a restaurant with a variety of menus available. There are also two bars, a lounge, pro-shop and bag storage area. Meanwhile the generous terrace offers spectacular views of the golf course and the cascading lakes and streams. Be sure to wait around to enjoy ”some truly wonderful sunsets” over the Atlantic Ocean.
The course is designed by Martin Ebert, best known for his recent work at Turnberry. Situated in the margins of Óbidos Lagoon near the Atlantic Ocean, the course regularly features in the best courses in Portugal. In a manner fitting of the other course’s lining Portugal’s Silver Coast, the layout is a truly spectacular design.
The more undulating back-nine is the finer of the two halves and comes to an epic climax over the final three holes.
Within easy reach of Lisbon, the layout is a great choice to combine with a trip to the capital.
