Close Cousins. Spain & Portugal Golf Vacations

Spain and Portugal are close cousins for their playful climate, fascinating heritage, fabulous dining and thrilling golf. However, when your inspection turns to matters of style, the Portuguese will tutor you in the art of relaxation while the Spanish are more inclined to celebration.

In Portugal, the Algarve and Lisbon are first and foremost. The weather is gentle year round, with only minor variations in temperature. The Algarve is all about verandas perched high on reddish, sandstone cliffs overlooking the sea with a carafe of white after a round of international class golf. Quinta do Lago is one of three guest courses offered by the resort which is owned and operated by Orient-Express Hotels. The region's most prominent club is San Lorenzo, a fixture among the world 100. It neighbors the Atlantic while winding through pine woods, around an estuary with saltwater marshes and fresh water lagoons. Frank Pennink's Vilamoura, Old Course is reminiscent of the classic, wooded, inland layouts of Britain. Four hours north is Lisbon, one of Europe's great capitals with ample distractions like cobblestone streets, ancient trolleys, boutique shops, castles, Formula One racing and museums. Eight golf courses are nearby, three you will want to enjoy - Praia del Rey, Penha Longa of course, and Oitavos.

Spain's Costa del Sol is a 100 mile beach party with ample sun which can become a bit warm in the summer but absolutely perfect fall to spring. Guaranteed weather, beautiful golf courses, first class resort and sizzling nightlife, have long attracted Europe’s jet set. Marbella boasts shops and restaurants to rival London or Paris, as well as an exclusive harbour and marina - Puerto Banus. The Malaga Province is a spirited year round experience, but it does peak, at fiesta time. Plan your golf to include Ronda's Pedro Romero Fair, a 100-year-old fiesta highlighted by the Goyesque Bullfight. Also in September is Almáchar's Ajoblanco Fair, celebrated in honor of the muscatel grape harvest. July's Nerja Cave Festival is one of the most prestigious dates for international music and dance. The golf you want includes Valderrama, La Reserva, San Roque (Old), Almenara, and Sotogrande (Old).

Spain & Portugal Issue – Tee Times eNewsetter

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Golf & Travel Editorial

Oitavos Dunes, Portugal (Recommended by Drew Rogers) by: Chris Santella
When Americans think of golf and Portugal – if they think of golf and Portugal – the Algarve region springs to mind.  Portugal’s answer to Spain’s Costa del Sol, the Algarve rests on the country’s extreme southern coast and boasts more than 30 courses, heavily patronized by Brits and other northern Europeans seeking a bit of sun to go with their golf (one might think ... Read more

Portugal Awaits Its Turn by: James A. Frank

Overshadowed by its next-door neighbor Spain, as well as the rest of Europe, Portugal deserves more attention. Pity poor Portugal. Like a third-string quarterback, it rarely gets the good look, seldom a chance to strut its stuff. In European golf, Great Britain is the franchise player, Spain the backup. Lowly Portugal rides the bench, saying, “Play me or trade me.” My advice? Play. It’s not as if anyone ... Read more

Valderrama Golf Club, Spain (Recommended by Bill Hogan) by: Chris Santella

For the last decade Club de Golf Valderrama, near the southern tip of Spain, has been widely considered the finest golf course in Continental Europe.  Many draw parallels between Valderrama and Augusta National in Georgia, a recognition of the course’s immaculate conditions, thoughtful design and elite membership.  “Valderrama is extremely exclusive,” said Bill Hogan.  “Its membership is a who’s who of Europe’s business elite.  Many ... Read more