DESTINATION GOLF PORTUGAL 2022 / 23
Dom Pedro Old Course
Dom Pedro Laguna
This modern course is laid out over low lying coastal terrain . Its many water hazards and scarcity of trees makes it considerably different from other courses in this region . Indeed , many holes possess a links-like feel . American golf architect , Joseph Lee , designed this course which has enjoyed constant improvements over the years . Measuring 6,121 metres from the white tees , the par-72 course includes several lakes which influence play on 11 holes . Apart from the lakes and a daunting 79 bunkers , the wind is a major factor as it frequently blows over this somewhat exposed location . Laguna shares a large , welcoming clubhouse with the neighbouring Millennium Course . The course re-opens in 2022 , following a major renovation to improve its playability and environmental sustainability .
Dom Pedro Millennium
The Millenium course slides through three different landscapes , promising variety and new challenges at every turn . In general , the course is fairly exposed although a strong stretch of early holes plays between pine trees – similar to the neighbouring fairways of the Old and Pinhal courses . These holes have narrower fairways and require greater accuracy , especially off the tee , while the remainder of the course plays over a clear landscape enriched by lakes at the 4th , 17th and 18th . Major work by Martin Hawtree , the renowned UK golf architect , has resulted in a strong refurbishment of the course . The end result is 18 exciting holes that make Millenium one of the main courses in Vilamoura .
Dom Pedro Pinhal
Pinhal is the second oldest golf course in the Vilamoura region . Although it was originally designed by Frank Pennink ( who also designed the Old course ), several modifications were made by Robert Trent Jones Senior , in 1985 . One of the major changes was to lengthen the course to 6,353 metres , in order to cater for the technological advances in the modern game . Pinhal is characterised by gently sloping terrain enclosed by umbrella and Atlantic pines which tower over fairways . There are a few water hazards , such as well positioned ponds , but most are there to catch the errant shot . The clubhouse boasts stunning panoramas from the large veranda .
Dom Pedro Old Course
Any golf course carrying the name “ Old ” will possess a certain charm and a layout of natural beauty . Although this course has had a facelift or two since it opened in 1969 , no major changes were made to its magnificent layout . Often described as the Grande Dame of Algarve courses , the Old course meanders through majestic pine trees which line most of the holes . It coasts at a lazy pace that captivates all visiting golfers and a round here will live long in the memory . After an enjoyable 18-holes a fully serviced clubhouse waits for those who feel they ’ ve earned a nice cold beer .
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