Salgados Dunas Suites
Salgados Dunas Suites
bunkers, plus the slick and undulating putting
surfaces that are Monte Rei’s main defence. But it
doesn’t make it any less enjoyable, the immaculate
conditioning of the course, the resort facilities and
the fabulous scenery make certain of that.
www.monte-rei.com
Salgados
Located between the coastal towns of Armação
de Pêra and Albufeira west of Faro, the Salgados
course has been laid out adjacent to a protected
bird reserve in low-lying wetlands near Praia
de Gale beach. When you first set eyes on
its lush green fairways dotted with palms and
water, you can be excused for thinking you have
been transported to a course in Florida or the
Caribbean. This dramatic layout is packed with
more water hazards (the wet stuff features on 16
of the 18 holes) than any course in the Algarve
- and you need to plot your way strategically
around to achieve a decent score, especially with
likely Atlantic breezes adding to the challenge.
One of the star holes is the 6th, a par-5 dogleg
right where the fairway is flanked with the nature
reserve on the left and water on the right. Once
you are safely on the short stuff, it’s a case of
advancing your second shot as far as you can,
otherwise it will be a daunting mid-iron over water
to a large green featuring a pronounced back to
front slant. A Bubba Watson drive away from the
course is the five-star Salgados Palace offering
guests an authentic oasis atmosphere in verdant,
extensive gardens, with several swimming pools
nestling amid palm and olive trees.
www.nauhotels.com
Quinta do Lago
Situated just 15 minutes drive from Faro airport,
and set in 2,000 acres of verdant countryside
and pine forest bordering the Atlantic and the
Ria Formosa Nature Park, Quinta do Lago (named
‘Europe’s Best Golf Venue’ at the 2015 World Golf
Awards) has been at the forefront of European golf
since opening in 1972. The five-star resort features
three award-winning 18-hole championship
Volume 5 • Issue 52
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