Classic Golf Holidays - The Algarve

Of Algarve, southern Portugal, with its year round sunshine, miles of golden sandy beaches and picturesque villages, has become one of the most popular golf destinations in Europe. But while there are many courses to suit all abilities, the Algarve is also perfect for non golfers, especially the eastern region around Tavira, with its stunning nature walks. At the other end of the scale, resorts like Vilamoura and Vale do Lobo are mega destinations with golf and all sporting options you could want. Then, in Western Algarve, around the bustling holiday destination of Albufeira center, you can holiday 24 / 7, combining golf with a hectic nightlife. Western Algarve golf breaks Besides bustling Albufeira is the old town of Lagos, situated in one of the largest bays in the Algarve. Its 17-century fortress located at the entrance of the harbor and a new marina with rows of excellent restaurants and bars draws the crowds. Alvor, an old port at the mouth of the River Alvor, has many traditional restaurants along the quay and a maze of cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, shops and some bars. Golf Tourists should check out the renowned Pinta, one of the best courses in the Algarve, designed to maintain natural valleys and undulations. Neighbors Gramacho is also excellent and the courses are free of green fees for those lucky enough to be at Pestana Hotels. Central Algarve offers golf and more Quinta do Lago is a destination for world-class golf. Two of its four excellent 18-hole courses in Europe are listed among the top 25 golf courses, and half of 2000 hectares Resort offers recreational and residential complex, surrounded by pine forests. This beautiful area is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa nature reserve. Nearby is a large shopping mall with a health club, nightclubs and restaurants, and scenic countryside along miles of secluded beaches. Just 20 minutes from Faro International Airport, Vilamoura is one of Europe's largest sports and entertainment. There are five golf courses, championship tennis courts, a riding school applauded, and fishing and shooting facilities. Marina Resort has many great restaurants, cafes and shops. Vale do Lobo, Portugal's biggest luxury resort golf, 20 minutes from Faro airport, is one of the best in Europe. Its two golf courses, Royal and Ocean, with fantastic views of the coast, and its 5 km of sandy beach, with spectacular red sandstone cliffs, provides non-golfers with seriously good beach and swimming options. The resort also offers tennis courts, gym and beauty spa, restaurants and shops. Eastern Algarve Golf Tours, without the crowds For a less frenetic golfing and the opportunity to enjoy nature, east from Faro towards the Spanish border. There are many hotels near the airport, close to some well-designed courses. Tavira, at the mouth of the Gila River is a fishing port in the Arab period. Nearby are Reserva do Sapal, one of the most important natural reserves in Portugal. And across the border in Costa de la Luz, there are many great golf courses.