Destination Golf Portugal 2022 * | Page 84

DESTINATION GOLF PORTUGAL 2022 / 23

Where to play in Porto

Vidago Palace
Opened in 1936 , Vidago Palace is an established golf course that plays an important role in the golf offering of Northern Portugal . The new layout was redesigned by Cameron & Powell , often praised for their specialist work in golf course design . They extended the course to a full 18 holes , with a par of 72 , ensuring that the overall visual appeal and charm were maintained as holes roam through a valley . But Vidago Palace saves the best to last , as the final four holes are nothing short of breathtaking , boasting fantastic views and dramatically shaped holes that test and thrill in equal measure . The Vidago Palace hotel lies behind the 18th green and is one of Portugal ’ s top resorts .
Did you know ?
Nine new holes were added in 2011 ( following a multimillion hotel refurbishment ) and the finishing stretch ( 14-18 ) is now one of the very best you ’ ll find .
WWW . VIDAGOPALACE . COM
Ponte de Lima
Ponte De Lima Golf Course is located far enough inland that it avoids the strong northerly winds that affect the coastline . It is a mountainous course that is set in heavily wooded terrain , distinctive to northern Portugal . Opened in 1995 , this par-71 course is spread across a rollercoaster terrain , swamped in trees and natural vegetation , and even a vineyard . A beautiful restored mansion serves as a clubhouse . Each nine holes is distinctive with the front-9 streaking through age-old trees and a ravine , with big elevation changes , while the back-9 flow through the valley of Quinta de Pias , enclosed by vineyards , cornfields and apple and pear trees .
Did you know ?
The front nine are so explosive you may want to consider hiring a buggy . Mountainous ... and marvellous .
WWW . AXISGOLFE . COM
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