DESTINATION GOLF PORTUGAL 2023
Estela
Estela
There are few golfers who don ’ t love a quality links course . After all , the essence and soul of the game is captivating … and golfers who visit the golf course at Estela won ’ t be disappointed . The links terrain rivals that of many links courses across Ireland and the UK , and it clings to three kilometres of sandy beach , stretching away from the clubhouse on both nines . Opened in 1988 , this par-72 championship course is located 20 minutes from Porto ’ s international airport and located in the lively summer resort of Povoa de Varzim . Owing to its exposed sandy terrain , punishing rough , prevailing winds and quick greens , players will revel in the links conditions that demand their best golf , while also thrilling them with some wonderfully designed holes .
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 breath-taking , 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 .
Oporto
Porto ’ s links course portfolio is boosted by this genuine links with deeply rooted values and traditions . Inaugurated in 1890 , this par-71 course plays to a length of 5,640 metres from the back tees . This might be shorter than many modern day courses but what ’ s lost in length on this classic course , is made up for with narrow and undulating fairways , and ever-present northerly winds . The course is located 17 kilometres south of Porto , close to the wonderful beaches of Espinho . As part of the “ Espinho Golf Week ”, Oporto Golf Club has been hosting a competition called the “ Skeffington Cup ” since 1891 .
Axis Golf 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 .
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