Vale do Lobo has long been synonymous with golf holidays to the Algarve and is home to two testing and striking golf courses; the Royal and the Ocean, which have both previously hosted the European PGA Tour event, the Portuguese Open. Originally designed by Sir Henry Cotton and more recently re-developed by American architect legend Rocky Roquemore, the Royal and the Ocean test a golfer’s game (and patience) like few courses can.

The Vale do Lobo Ocean, often regarded as the more complete layout of the two courses, is highly regarded for its breathtaking vistas and challenging test of golf. Lined by pine and eucalyptus trees throughout the 18 holes, the course’s gently undulating fairways run down towards the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and where golfers are just yards from the water’s edge. Developing along the very edge of the coastline, it allows golfers to tee-off alongside some of the most incredible ocean views in the Algarve. Vale do Lobo Ocean’s unique combination of links and inland golf provides an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all standards.

The Royal Golf Course at Vale do Lobo whilst flanked by thick pine, fig and eucalyptus trees for most of the round unveils some of the most breathtaking views anywhere in the Algarve from the 15^th tee to the 16^th green. Set amongst lakes and lush vegetation, this Par 72 course provides a stern test where accurate driving is a necessity while three demanding par 3 holes can make, or break, your score. One of these is the magnificent cliff-top 16^th hole. Originally the 7^th, this has a spectacular carry over the bright red cliffs of the Algarve coastline and is one of the most celebrated golfing images in the world. A well-known symbol of the Algarve, it is said to be the most photographed golf hole in Europe.