The Algarve is one of the world’s premier golf destinations and it’s easy to see why. The climate is great, all year round and it’s very accessible, via Faro Airport, which receives flights from around the world, on a daily basis. There are plenty of lovely towns in which to stay, one of which is the historic town of Lagos. This town is perfect to use as a base, due to its proximity to Onyria Palmares Golf and Beach Resort.
Situated right on the beach and adjacent to the town of Lagos this Championship 27 Hole golf course is one of Portugal's best layouts. With numerous Tee positions its is also a great test and enjoyed by golfers of all abilities.
Golf in Lagos
This is a golf course that is comfortably ranked inside the top 100 golf courses in Europe plus the top 10 courses in Portugal and it’s easy to see why. Designed by Frank Pennink and opened in 1975, Onyria Palmares has played host to a number of amateur and professional events and has been added to the PGA Europro Tour circuit.
The golf course setting is picture-perfect, with tremendous views over Lagos Bay and out towards the Monchique Hills. The course itself is a lovely mix of links-style holes and parkland holes, offering a good challenge to players of all abilities. Five of the holes are played on the dunes alongside the Atlantic Coast and the remaining holes, are played inland, across gently undulating fairways. In total, there are three, 9 hole loops, called Alvor, Lagos and Praia, each of which come with their own characteristics. The Alvor loop is inland and features hillsides and valleys, making it great for those who enjoy a change in elevation during a round of golf. The Lagos Course is the only one to offer a water hazard, with two lakes coming in to play on the 3rd and 4th holes. Finally, the Praia Course is where visitors will find the links-style holes, situated between the beach and the railway line.
Onyria Palmares is renowned for being a golf course that is always in excellent condition, whatever the time of year. Despite being easy on the eye, expect to be challenged by the course, which is played at various heights during 18 holes. This can prove to be tough, in terms of physical endurance, for those not used to the changes in elevation the style of holes. The greens are very well kept and although they are not fast, do require thought before putting. That’s not to say they are slow, far from it, instead the greens play at a steady pace, which the majority of players will find perfect for low scoring. Watch out for the undulating greens on the links section of the course, however, as these can prove to be tricky. Visitors to Onyria Palmares can expect a great welcome from the staff and while the clubhouse may not be as modern as some others in the area, it certainly offers everything a golfer could require.
In summary, Onyria Palmares is a fantastic golf course, incorporating a number of quality holes and spectacular scenery. Any golfer should make it a priority to play this course during an Algarve golf break.
