Where to Stay: Casa Velha do Palheiro
Set within the magnificent Palheiro Estate and lying adjacent to the five-star Madeira Island Hotel Casa Velha do Palheiro - a Relais & Châteaux property - the 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course meanders through a pristine environment of maritime pine and botanical woodland embroidered with lush, sub-tropical vegetation.
At nearly 500 m (1640 ft) above sea level, the location is blessed with dramatic views of Madeira's mountainous skyline and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Nestling below just 10 minutes away is Funchal, the island's capital.
Palheiro Golf was designed by Cabell Robinson and opened in 1993, updated in 2003. Two holes were replaced, and a 6 hole academy course was created. The result is a stunning 18 hole challenge with breathtaking views, fast undulating greens, well-placed bunkers, and tight fairways that reward accurate play.
Palheiro Golf winds around the Palheiro Estate which is famous for its pine forests, centennial trees, flowering shrubs, and lush vegetation.
The Palheiro Golf clubhouse, perched 500 meters above sea level, boasts a panoramic terrace that commands unlimited views of the Funchal harbour and the Atlantic Ocean. The stylish Palheiro Golf clubhouse is further complemented by the superb restaurant, managed by the award-winning Relais and Châteaux hotel Casa Velha do Palheiro
This picturesque layout with year-round appeal takes full advantage of Madeira’s hilly terrain, with abrupt ridges and deep valleys providing a compelling challenge for even the most seasoned golfer.
The scenic drive from the airport would just 20 minutes?
Yes, there is an extensive golf club house with a state-of-the-art spa too. Set under the 18th green at Madeira Island Palheiro Golf, the Clubhouse Restaurant sits high above Funchal and affords a glorious panorama of the bay, the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
There is a driving range with three different driving positions, chipping green, bunker green and two putting greens and golf Academy.
Yes the course frequently hosts the Madeira Island Open.
