Winter can be a depressing time for golfers in Britain. The days are shorter, the ground is usually sodden and the weather is usually, well, a bit like Kevin Na. Whilst all this means more time in the club house, it also means less time digging around in the undergrowth, which is what it’s all about! No? Must just be me! Fear not though! I have compiled a list of some fantastic golf courses and hotels that offer the perfect cure – discover the perfect Christmas golf breaks! You will read of fine, lush fairways and bunkers of white sand in stark contrast with the deep blue sky above. If you’re after a few more options, check out our other tips for the Algarve or Madeira.
Because it’s my list and I can write what I like, I’m going to focus on Portugal and maybe a couple of others. So here are the pick of Portugal’s golf courses plus a bonus one.
Monte Rei, Algarve
Par: 72
Pick of the holes: 14th
Considered one of the top courses in the country, Monte Rei was designed by Jack Nicklaus and opened in 2007. It’s location near Tavira ensures spectacular views and a great atmosphere. We really do recommend it highly.
Photo by: Mauro Rodrigues/Fotolia
Extensive water hazards and excellent bunkering are par for the course here and offer a challenge to any player. The 14th hole is particularly attractive and challenging. It requires you to negotiate a lake from the tee.
The level of service and attention to detail is superb. It goes some way to making up for the high green fees which currently stand at €150 for the winter.
If you’re staying at Monte Rei you’re in for a treat. The villas are extremely stylish and comfortable. Tennis courts, swimming pools, a fully equipped gymnasium and spa facilities are also available. The restaurants are truly excellent and headed up by Jaime Perez who worked at elBulli, the famous 3 Michelin starred restaurant in Catalonia. Named Restaurant Magazine’s Best Restaurant in the World for 5 years, it’s safe to say Jaime knows a thing or two about cooking. There are special lunch and dinner events on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day so bring something smart and prepare for some fantastic food and cocktails!
All in all, Monte Rei really is a great place for a Christmas golf break!
Oceanico Old Course, Algarve
Par: 73
Pick of the holes: 5th
With 7 championship courses to choose from, we’ve opted for Oceanico’s Old Course as we feel it’s the best. Created in 1969 by Frank Pennink, the course was remodelled in 1996 but still retains much of its former charm. The Old Course starts easily enough and lets you get into the swing of things without too much trouble as you work your way down the tree lined fairways.
Photo by: Carlos Neto/Fotolia
The 5th also looks simple at first glance but it’s a deceptive sod. The fairway is surprisingly narrow. If you edge too far to the right, you’ll find a single tree blocking your route to the green. This is further guarded by two more trees on its edge. Service is professional and friendly and even on busy days you’ll find you have plenty of space to yourself. Green fees are €117 for the winter and are surprisingly good value. There’s a selection of Christmas menus to choose from so you’re bound to find something to your taste should you want to spend the big day here.
Whilst there’s no accommodation on site, you can book at Amendoeira Golf Resort or Belmar SPA & Beach Resort. Alternatively, there are plenty of good hotels in Vilamoura to choose from.
Troia, Lisbon
Par: 72
Pick of the holes: 3rd
Leaving the Algarve, we’re heading up to Lisbon and a different prospect entirely. The course at Troia is situated on a peninsular jutting out into the Sado Estuary. It is a truly magnificent location. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course opened in 1980 and has never really looked back. It is considered to be one of the most difficult in Portugal. Raised greens, tricky doglegs and extensive bunkering are all to be found on this challenging course.
Photo by: Mauro Rodrigues/Fotolia
Our favourite hole is the 3rd. Offering wonderful sea views, it runs along the beach and is a delightful hole to play.
The restaurant is good and offers a variety of great food from pasta to steaks and views of the lake. Green fees are a very reasonable €85 during the week and €102 on the weekend.
Accommodation is stylish and reasonably priced and helps to make Troia a great choice for a golf break.
Guest course: Fontainebleau, Île-de-France, France
Par: 72
Pick of the holes: 12th
Designed by Tom Simpson, Golf de Fontainebleau is one of the top courses in France and considered by some to be the very best. Its English appearance makes it easy to forget you’re in France. The local deer certainly add to this as they run across the fairways.
Photo by: Christian Delbert/Fotolia
The course is dotted with limestone rocks that provide a unique challenge. The dense forest of oak and pine more than compensates for the few areas of rough in the difficulty stakes. Deep bunkers and contoured greens are another regular occurrence here, so you need to be accurate if you don’t want a frustrating day.
The 12th sees the limestone rocks form a barrier across the fairway. It’s a pleasure to play as long as your short game is on form! We’d recommend you stay in Paris and drive to Fontainbleau to make the most out of your break. This also allows you to play Morfontaine if you’re lucky or National (L’Albatros).
Fore!
If you’re thinking about heading abroad for the best Portuguese Christmas golf breaks, you’d better start booking now! Alternatively, make sure to follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest travel tips and news.
