You can easily understand why the Algarve is considered one of the world’s finest golf destinations when you visit the region. The temperature is terrific throughout the year. Furthermore, it is easily accessible through Faro International Airport, which regularly attracts travellers from all over the world. As well as beautiful locations in which to stay, one of the most notable is Lagos, a historic town with a rich history. Because of its close vicinity to the Onyria Palmares Golf and Beach Resort, this town is an excellent choice for a base of operations.
This championship 27-hole golf course, located directly on the coastline and near Lagos, is considered one of Portugal’s most fantastic layouts. It is also a tremendous challenge for players of all levels, as seen by the different Tee locations available.
This golf course 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 several amateur and professional events and added to the PGA Europro Tour circuit.
The golf course setting is picture-perfect, with tremendous views over Lagos Bay and towards Monchique Hills. The course is a lovely mix of links-style holes and parkland holes, offering a tremendous challenge to players of all abilities. Five of the holes are played on the dunes alongside the Atlantic Coast. The remaining holes are played inland, across gently undulating fairways.
In total, there are three nine-hole loops, called Alvor, Lagos and Praia, each of which come with their 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 will find the link-style holes 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, played at various heights during 18 holes. In terms of physical endurance, this can prove to be tough 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, they require thought before putting. That’s not to say they are slow, far from it, instead the greens play at a steady pace, which most 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. 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 several quality holes and spectacular scenery. Any golfer should make it a priority to play this course during an Algarve golf break.
