Quinta da Marinha Golf Course offers an enjoyable championship test in a beautiful coastal setting near Cascais. Surrounded by umbrella pines and enjoying views towards the Atlantic Ocean and Sintra Mountains, the course combines peaceful resort golf with easy access to beaches, restaurants and the lively centre of Cascais.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the 18-hole, par-71 layout measures 5,870 metres. Elevated tees and greens, substantial bunkering and well-positioned water hazards display many of the architect’s familiar design features. Every hole presents a slightly different challenge, encouraging golfers to use the full range of clubs in their bag rather than relying solely on distance.

The fifth is an excellent par three played across a large lake to an elevated green protected by four bunkers. Water returns at the par-five 10th, where two lakes make careful planning essential throughout the hole. The famous par-four 13th provides magnificent Atlantic views and features a well-placed tree that can influence the ideal line from the tee. It is followed by the demanding 14th, a par three played across a natural ravine.

Quinta da Marinha is suitable for a broad range of handicaps, although golfers must position their tee shots carefully to create the best approach angles. The elevated greens can make inaccurate shots difficult to recover from, while the coastal breeze adds another element to club selection and distance control.

Practice facilities include a driving range, bunker area, two putting greens and TrackMan swing-analysis technology, with tuition available from PGA professionals. After golf, players can enjoy the clubhouse or explore Cascais, where the old town, marina and seafront restaurants offer plenty of choices for food and drinks. Guincho Beach, Boca do Inferno and the palaces and gardens of Sintra also make excellent additions to a longer Lisbon Coast golf holiday.