The Algarve has demonstrated its status as the best golfing region in Southern Europe after seven of its famous courses were recognised in Golf World’s benchmark ‘Top 100 Courses in Continental Europe 2015/16’ rankings.
Thanks to a new entry from the totally remodeled North Course at Quinta do Lago, the picturesque region was able to better its previous portfolio ranking by one. And, although the new contender may well end up one day superseding its sibling track, the star of Quinta do Lago is still its South Course, with the eight-time Portuguese Open host placing firmly at number 58.
But it was Monte Rei which cemented its place as the number-one course in the Algarve – and Portugal – and, though it ranked impressively at number 14, up four places, the challenging east Algarve parkland will justifiably have eyes on a top-10 spot next time.
The Algarve’s highest climber was the 6,839-yard, Frank Pennink-designed Oceanico Old Course, moving up a significant 22 places to reposition itself at 44, while its sister course, the Oceanico Faldo, was also among the rankings.
With their exhilarating views, it’s not surprising the ever-popular coastal courses at Onyria Palmares and San Lorenzo maintained their top-30 rankings – Onyria Palmares climbing to number 21 and San Lorenzo remaining at number 28.
Maria Manuel Delgado e Silva, Algarve Tourism Association golf product manager, said: “It’s a great honour for the Algarve to have so many courses included in Golf World’s ‘Top 100 Courses in Continental Europe’, one of the most respected ranking lists in the industry.
“We are delighted to have improved upon our previous rankings, and, with our passion for golf and the dedication of our golf industry partners to the guest experience, we’re optimistic the best is yet to come.”
The Algarve’s sun-drenched climate boasts more than 300 days of sunshine per year, extending the golf season by several months and driving players from all over the world to the region. It will be celebrating its 50th anniversary as a golf destination in 2016.
Algarve Golf www.visitgolfalgarve.com