The Algarve region is synonymous with golf in Portugal, but what about the Lisbon Coast? Let us introduce to you a fantastic alternative, The Lisbon Golf Coast. West of Portugal’s capital and on the Atlantic Coast are some stunning golf courses to add to your All Square World Map.
West Cliffs
Opened for play in summer 2017, the layout is so good that many are positioning West Cliffs as the best golf course in Europe and that reputation is only set to enhance as the golf course matures. Designed by Cynthia Dye, the niece of acclaimed architect Pete Dye, the layout is sculpted over 200 hectares of rolling duneland. Gifted with a site naturally suited for golf, Dye has done a remarkable job to create a natural and sustainable course that blends seamlessly with the landscape. Set against the glistening backcloth of the Atlantic Ocean, the course is nothing short of spectacular with sweeping vistas of the Berlengas Islands and the Obidos Lagoon. Tipping out at 7,003 yards, players will require formidable length if they wish to play from the back tees. Nonetheless, with several teeing options, accessibility to golfers of all abilities will be assured.
The Tagus Estuary provides a unique landscape and there are fourteen wonderful courses to choose from in the area. Oitavos Dunes is one of the best courses in the world, and former European Ryder Cup Captain Paul McGinley said it ‘has potential to be the best course in Europe’. Laid-out on fantastic terrain and with vistas that will astound you, this terrific Arthur Hills-designed course oozes charm. The course has paid particular attention to the indigenous flora and fauna of the land on which the course is built. With the Atlantic Ocean and the Sintra mountains making up the backdrop, Oitavos is a course you’ll struggle to forget!
Praia d’El Rey was designed as a part-parkland/part-links test. The wind coming off the Atlantic is always a factor around this great course. European links courses differ from classic British equivalents as they tend to feature more trees and Praia d’el Rey is no exception. As the course moves inland many pine trees play a part giving that unique switch from golfing styles. The undulating dunes remind you that you’re next to the ocean though. The 7100-yard Cabdell Robinson course is a great place to play and one of the most stunning golf courses in Europe.
Royal Óbidos was the last course that the late and great Severiano Ballesteros put his name to and it’s a striking test of golf. With nine lakes and the famous Óbidos Lagoon, you need to play well but the views are incredible! As the course makes its way through the lakes and streams you get a great sense of being part of nature. The resort is further enhanced by the luxurious boutique hotel that was decorated by Philippe Starck and his team at the yoo design studio! This is a beautiful facility in an even more beautiful setting, a real treat!
The world-famous architect Robert Trent Jones Jr has created a masterpiece in the region too with the Penha Longa Golf Club. This tremendous course is built on an old monastery which dates back to 1355. The 27-hole complex that is one of continental Europe’s best courses this course is set in awe-inspiring landscape that will make your round here incredible. Penha Longa played host to the 2010 Estoril Open de Portugal that was won by the Dane, Thomas Bjorn. This is a course of the highest pedigree and one that will be up with your best courses ever played.
Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed The Troia Resort golf course on the Lisbon coast. The elements will add challenge to your round at this exposed coastal course. Due to the location of the course you can get views of the sea on every hole! The third hole made it into RTJ Sr’s ideal 18 hole course. He also described it as one the greatest holes he ever designed.
Estoril Palacio Golf Course is another great course that is within 30 minutes of Lisbon. Take a trip out of the city to the coast where you’ll find a casino, three restaurants, and an amazing beach. The golf course isn’t long at 5200m (5690 yards). However the eucalyptus, mimosa and pine trees create a course that takes touch and tactics rather than brawn.
