The Complete Western Algarve Golfing Guide

Discover the complete golfing guide to Portugal’s Western Algarve. From Palmares to Boavista and Espiche, explore championship courses, luxury resorts, and property opportunities for golf lovers in Lagos, Carvoeiro, and beyond.

By LiveAlgarve on 5th September 2025 - 4 m. reading time

The luxury property market in the Algarve is as diverse as it is dynamic. In Lagos, Carvoeiro, and the surrounding areas, certain neighbourhoods stand out for their exclusivity, amenities and investment potential. 

In this week’s blog, we’ve adopted a slightly different role… Let’s explore which areas are best suited for golf lovers here in the Algarve. 

Palmares Ocean Living & Golf

Overlooking Meia Praia beach and the Alvor Estuary, Palmares is a 27-hole championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. The layout is divided into three loops of nine holes, blending parkland with traditional links-style stretches. Golfers are drawn to the variety on offer; seaside holes with Atlantic views contrast with inland fairways set within pine and olive groves.

Palmares is consistently ranked among the best courses in Portugal, with Golf World and Golf Digest placing it within Europe’s top tier. Beyond the course itself, the resort integrates a luxury residential community, featuring contemporary villas and apartments designed to take advantage of the surrounding views.

Boavista Golf & Spa Resort 

Just five minutes from central Lagos, Boavista Golf offers an 18-hole course that balances playability with challenge. Designed by Howard Swan, it is known for its crisp fairways, elevated tees and panoramic views across the Bay of Lagos and the Monchique Mountains.

The resort also includes a spa, clubhouse, and year-round amenities, making it popular among both permanent residents and those seeking seasonal homes. Properties here are often chosen for their rental appeal, given the steady demand from holidaymakers looking for proximity to Lagos paired with resort facilities.

Penina Hotel & Golf Resort – Portimão

Penina is a historic name in Algarve golf. As the first 18-hole course in the region, it’s a legend among golfers, having hosted multiple Portuguese Opens. The Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course is the jewel of the resort.

Located just outside Portimão, Penina offers a more relaxed lifestyle while keeping amenities within easy reach. 

Pestana Golf Courses – Carvoeiro & Silves

The Pestana Group operates several courses across the Algarve, four of which are located in the Western and Central regions:

• Gramacho (Carvoeiro): A unique 18-hole design co-created by Nick Price and Ronald Fream, featuring 27 varied greens that provide changing challenges.

• Vale da Pinta (Carvoeiro): Known for its olive trees, some over 1,000 years old, this course offers a picturesque backdrop and strong reputation for maintenance.

• Silves Golf: Nestled inland, Silves provides a quieter, countryside setting with mountain views and less coastal wind, making it a favourite for consistent year-round play.

• Alto Golf (near Portimão): The final design of Sir Henry Cotton, Alto is defined by narrow fairways and the legendary 600-yard par-5 “Sir Henry Challenge”.

These courses are popular among golfers seeking variety within a manageable driving distance. The surrounding towns of Carvoeiro and Silves also offer a balance between authentic Portuguese character and modern amenities.

Espiche Golf 

For buyers who value sustainability, Espiche Golf just outside Lagos is a standout. This eco-friendly course is set within a natural preserve, offering a peaceful round surrounded by native flora and low-impact landscaping.

Homes nearby tend to focus on modern design and energy-efficient features, making this a unique option for buyers who want lifestyle and ethics aligned.

Why Golfers Choose to Live in the Algarve

• Mild winters & dry summers = year-round play

• Strong expat communities in towns like Lagos, Carvoeiro, and Portimão

• International airports (Faro) with regular flights to the UK, Germany, Netherlands, and more recently, the USA

• Stable property values in resort areas, with strong rental return potential

Live Algarve

At Live Algarve, we specialise in luxury real estate across Lagos, Portimão, and Carvoeiro, including homes located on or near the Algarve’s best golf courses. 

If you’re looking for a frontline villa, a private townhouse in a golf resort, or a contemporary apartment with rental appeal, we can help in finding a property that fits both your game and your lifestyle.