DESTINATIONGOLF. TRAVEL
Where to Play in Porto
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 found 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.
Did you know?
Estela offers one of the best buffet lunches you’ ll ever experience … and that’ s just one more reason to love playing here.
WWW. ESTELAGOLF. PT
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.
Did you know?
Established in 1890, Oporto is the fifth oldest course in Continental Europe( after Pau in France).
WWW. OPORTOGOLFCLUB. COM
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.
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
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