Destination Golf Portugal 2016 * | Page 32

www.destinationgolf.travel Alamos Alamos Morgado Opened in 2006, the Alamos course is one of the latest courses to be added to the golf portfolio in the Algarve. Lying to the north of Portimao it’s located in close proximity to Morgado golf course. The setting is a large 980 hectare estate through undulating small valleys. This course is designed with big putting surfaces, which places a stronger emphasis on good putting skills. In some parts, the greens are quite undulating with several tiers. Deep bunkers that are deliberately hanging close to the greens require accurate approach shots. This course is full of character and is rapidly growing in stature. Situated in the Barrocal region of the Algarve, many call this a miniature paradise with valleys, lagoons, forests, vegetable gardens, orchards and a variety of wild animals. This championship course ranks as one of the toughest and longest of all courses in the Algarve. The testing 6,399 metres par-73 layout suits the longer hitters. The course consists of five par-5’s, nine pa-3’s and four par-4’s. Big greens and deep bunkers are common place around the course. Two lakes come into play on the front and back nine. Given the challenge on offer, it would be advised to use the practise facilities before taking on this course. On offer is a practise area, driving range, chipping green and putting green. Oceanico Faldo The course is full of character - ancient olive trees, mature trees, cacti, wild herbs and desert scrub bunkers 30 Surrounded by rocky outcrops and meandering water features, this Nick Faldo designed golf course is designed to test accuracy. The course is full of character - ancient olive trees, mature trees, cacti, wild herbs and desert scrub bunkers of crushed limestone. Due to its elevation in some parts, the course boasts stunning views of the Alcantarilha countryside, over the large orange groves to the mountains in the distance. Positional play is key, but there are some great risk and reward holes on offer too, especially on the earlier holes that play close to the clubhouse. After leaving high ground to the west, the eighteenth brings the final chapter to a close with a magnificent par 5. By then, a drink in the stunning clubhouse has been well earned.