The Els Club Vilamoura

The Els Club Vilamoura is not merely a golf course; it represents a blend of innovative design, stunning natural landscapes and outstanding craftsmanship. Ernie Els has adeptly transformed his insights into the game into course designs that are recognized globally.

The extensively revamped Victoria Course, now known as the Els Club Vilamoura, embodies his dedication to excellence. Featuring skillfully shaped fairways, well-placed bunkers, and immaculate greens, the course presents challenges and inspiration for golfers at every level. Each hole provides a distinct combination of strategy and breathtaking views, highlighting the Algarve’s natural splendor.

The course has been extensively redesigned by Ernie Els and was recently selected to host the World Cup of Golf, one of the four high profile World Golf Championship Events.

The course can be stretched to 7,105 from the tips, and is dotted with a number of large man-made lakes which are a real threat, and create a beautiful contrast with the crystal white swathes of sand that guard the greens. This is a formidable test that can humble even the most skilled player, and is an essential part of any trip to Vilamoura for the golfing aficionado.

The 17th is a long par-5 stretching well close to 600 yards from the back tees with water in play off the tee and on the approach to the green. With a favourable wind, you can reach this in two but you'll be faced with a high number if you fall short of the green. The 18th, measuring over 450 yards is a very stern test to challenge its par of 4. Water is in play all along the left-hand side of the hole with bunkers guarding the right off the tee. Anyone managing to find the fairway then needs to play the perfect 2nd shot with a large undulating green that'll be sure to welcome a 3-putt.

The course has a private clubhouse that features the 261 Bar & Restaurant, golf boutique and members only facilities.

Signature Hole: 18th Hole - Par 4 - 462 yards - Stroke Index 4

Without doubt the hardest par 4 on the course is the lengthy 18th hole, which is bordered by a water hazard to the left and several bunkers on the right. The tee shot must be long and accurate to have any hope of making birdie. The degree of difficulty is turned up a notch by a challenging approach (usually into the wind) to a well-protected pin.

Pinhal Vilamoura

The Pinhal Course, flowing over the hills of Vilamoura,  is the second-oldest course in the Vilamoura resort, and like the Old Course Vilamoura was designed by the esteemed Frank Pennink. Since its inception in 1976, the Pinhal has been improved, most notably by Robert Trent Jones in 1985, and remains one of the top courses in Portugal today. 

The predominant character of the course comes as a result of the rolling landscape that is heavily populated by Umbrella and Atlantic Pines. These trees are frequently obstacles to the visiting golfer, while there are also streams and a lake that can be decidedly tricky.

To keep up with the advancements in golf technology, the Pinhal recently lengthened a number of holes, and the resultant 6,947 yards is a genuine pleasure to play during a golf escape in the popular resort town.