Vale do Lobo Royal Course

Vale Do Lobo Royal Golf Course

Where to Stay: Vale do Lobo Golf Resort

Vale do Lobo Royal Course - A Championship Golf Experience in the Algarve

Want to experience one of there most photographed golf holes whilst enjoying your golf break in Algarve? The Vale do Lobo Royal Course, home to the iconic 16th hole, offers exactly that and so much more. Having played this course numerous times in different seasons, I can tell you firsthand why it's consistently ranked among Continental Europe's top 100 golf courses.

Location and Resort Experience 

Perfectly positioned just 20 minutes from Faro Airport, the Vale do Lobo Royal Course sits at the heart of the largest luxury resort in the Algarve. Trust me - the convenience of this location makes it ideal for both weekend golf breaks and longer golfing trips in Portugal.

Course Overview and Condition

 The Royal Course offers a par 72 challenge stretching 6,166 yards - and while it's not the longest course you'll play, it demands respect. The course maintenance here is exceptional, with:

• Year-round pristine fairways
• Perfectly manicured greens
• Immaculate tee boxes
• Challenging rough that genuinely tests your accuracy

Signature Holes and Course Highlights:

Let me share three holes that make this course truly special:

• The 9th: An almost-island green that demands precision
• The famous 16th: A stunning 224-yard par 3 across dramatic coastal cliffs (bring your camera!)
• The 18th: A fantastic finishing hole with a narrow fairway and challenging green complex

Pro Tip: The back nine, added in the late 1990s, features more undulation than the front. I'd recommend taking a buggy, as some walks between holes can be lengthy.

Championship Pedigree 

Having hosted the Portuguese Open in 2003, the Royal Course offers a genuine championship experience.

The Vale do Lobo Royal Course, having hosted the 2003 Portuguese Open, presents a true test of golf that will challenge players of all abilities. Unlike some championship venues that can overwhelm higher handicappers, the Royal Course manages to remain playable whilst still testing the better player. The key is choosing the right tees - I always advise my clients to be realistic with their selection to ensure maximum enjoyment.

First-Class Facilities at Vale do Lobo

Practice Facilities and Amenities 

Having spent considerable time at Vale do Lobo, I can tell you the practice facilities here are among the best in the Algarve. The driving range features 300 yards of perfectly manicured grass tees, complemented by a covered hitting area for those occasional rainy days. There's also a dedicated short-game area with multiple bunkers and a spacious putting green that perfectly mimics the course conditions - essential for getting a feel for those tricky Royal Course greens before your round.

Pro Shop and Equipment

 The pro shop here is extensively stocked with premium brands and staffed by PGA professionals who can assist with everything from emergency equipment needs to quick swing tips. They offer club hire from €45 per round (do book in advance during peak seasons), with premium TaylorMade sets available. The shop also provides a club repair service and stocks all the usual accessories you might need.

Clubhouse Experience

 The modern clubhouse is a real highlight, featuring:

• A panoramic restaurant serving breakfast from 7am and lunch until 6pm
• The Golf Bar - perfect for post-round drinks with stunning views across the 18th green
• Spacious locker rooms with shower facilities and towel service
• A comfortable lounge area with satellite TV showing major sporting events
• Private changing facilities with secure lockers (bring a €1 coin for the locker)

Academy and Fitness Facilities

 The Vale do Lobo Royal Academy includes:

• Multiple PGA qualified teaching professionals
• Video analysis technology
• Custom club fitting service
• A fully equipped gym with cardio and weight training equipment
• Personal training sessions available (book 24 hours in advance)

Dining Options 

Beyond the clubhouse restaurant, you'll find:

• La Place - casual dining perfect for lunch
• Spikes Bar - ideal for quick snacks between rounds
• Ken's Bar - famous for its evening atmosphere
• Several fine dining restaurants within the resort

Pro Tip: If you're playing in summer, book an early tee time and pre-order breakfast in the clubhouse - they do a fantastic full English that sets you up perfectly for your round. And don't miss their club sandwich afterwards - it's become something of a tradition

Want to make the most of your visit? I'd recommend arriving at least an hour before your tee time to properly utilise the practice facilities and settle any pre-round nerves with a coffee in the clubhouse. During peak seasons, it's worth booking your post-round meal in advance - the restaurant can get quite busy, especially after competition days.

Nearby Golf Options

 Make the most of your Vale do Lobo golf break by combining the Royal Course with:

• Vale do Lobo Ocean Course (5-minute walk)
• San Lorenzo Golf Course (10 minutes)
• Quinta do Lago's three championship courses (10 minutes)
• Famous courses of Vilamoura (20 minutes)

Accommodation Options 

For the ultimate golf break, I recommend either:

• Staying within the Vale do Lobo resort itself
• The luxurious 5-star Dona Filipa Hotel
• Various high-end villas and apartments in the resort

Vale do Lobo Royal Booking Tips

• Book early morning tee times in the summer months
• Consider twilight rates for better value
• Pre-book buggies, especially during peak seasons
• Package deals often offer the best value for multiple rounds

Whether you're planning a dedicated golf break or combining golf with a luxury resort holiday, the Vale do Lobo Royal Course delivers an unforgettable Algarve golf experience. Want to know more about creating your perfect golf itinerary in the region? Our team has extensive experience playing and booking this venue - we'd love to help you plan your trip.