Destination Golf Portugal 2015 2015 | Page 56

Monte Rei Monte Rei Castro Marim The Monte Rei golf courses are set in the picturesque foothills of the Eastern Algarve, with sweeping views of the Serra do Caldeirão mountains to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. The first of two Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses - “Monte Rei North” - opened for play in June 2007. This par 72 Championship golf course measuring 6567metres from the Tournament tees is a truly unique design; with water coming into play on eleven of the eighteen holes. The golf course’s presentation is highly individual, each hole a design gem blending effortlessly into this natural canvas, from its ingeniously shaped and sculptured bunkers, to the impressive presentation and attention to detail making every hole as remarkable as the next. Monte Rei is truly worth a visit when in the eastern Algarve. Having only opened in 2000, Castro Marim Country Club has 27 holes being, the Grouse Course, the Atlantic Course and the Guadiana Course. The recently-built courses at Castro Marim are part of a truly exceptional tourist development, designed to provide unforgettable moments of leisure. It has a very special setting in the peaceful atmosphere of the eastern Algarve and was in fact the first course to be built in this region, offering players beautiful views over the Atlantic Ocean, the River Guadiana and the nearby nature reserve. What makes the Castro Marim Golf & Country Club really special is its unique blend of history, culture, nature, river, sea, beach and sporting facilities in one single setting, together with its exceptional service and quality. Colina Verde Quinta de Cima The 9-hole Executive par 3 golf course is suitable for players of all levels. Straight forward enough to be enjoyable for beginners, but also testing enough for the experienced player wishing to sharpen their iron play and short game. With average playing time of one and a half hours, there is plenty of time if you so wish to take in one of the 18-hole championship courses in the locality the same day. From Quinta de Cima Golf the views are spectacular and inspiring: from any part of the course, both the sea and the Algarve Mountains are a delight to anyone’s eyes. Old centenary olive and carob trees, together with the surrounding orange trees and vineyards, maintain the originality of the region landscape. It looks like as if the course has been there since centuries ago. This is a protected area and hopefully will remain this way forever! 54