East Algarve: Tranquility and Jack’s masterpiece
few kilometres to the east of the city of Tavira, Benamor is something of a ‘hidden gem’. The Sir Henry Cottondesigned 18-hole layout opened for play in 2000. It is one of the region’s more secluded courses. There are some wonderful views on offer of the hills of the Serra do Caldeirao.
Designed by Seve Ballesteros, Quinta do Vale features six par 3s, six par 4s and six par 5s. With views over the Guadiana River, the course blends into the area’s natural habitat. A number of doglegs add to the layout’s challenge.
Castro Marim is another 27-hole offering with three nine-hole loops. Here, you can play three different 18-hole layouts consisting of the Grouse and Guadiana, Atlantic and Guadiana and the Grouse and Atlantic. The Grouse was opened for play in 2008; the Atlantic followed
three years later. The Guadiana is the more mature of the three.
Quinta da Ria resort has two courses designed by Rocky Roquemore, and the Quinta da Ria course delivers some of the most wonderful views out over the Atlantic. There is a nice mixture of holes here, but the course’s most iconic spot comes on the 17th, with a small island which is now a sanctuary for endangered birds. Quinta de Cima is the championship layout, with several
natural creeks adding much character to the course.
Monte Rei Golf & Country Club is, in the eyes of many, the country’s top course. The Jack Nicklaus signature North Course and the magnificent clubhouse all add to the allure in its private and secluded hideaway. Opening for play in 2007 and set against the backdrop of the Serra do Caldeirao mountains, the layout should be on every golfer’s bucket list. Work will soon begin on the Nicklaus-designed South Course.
Tavira is a wonderful destination for your stay. Situated along the Gilao River, there is a strong mix of Portuguese heritage. It is well worth a visit to the cobbled streets of Olhao and Vila Real de Santo Antonio.