Clube de Golf Santo da Serra is one of Madeira’s great golf experiences, combining 27 holes of Robert Trent Jones Sr. design with dramatic mountain scenery and panoramic views across the Atlantic Ocean. Set high above Machico at Santo António da Serra, the course sits around 660 metres above sea level, creating a spectacular natural setting where elevation, wind and changing weather conditions become an important part of the challenge.

The club’s history dates back to 1937, with the current 27-hole layout created by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1991. Golf is divided between three distinctive nine-hole courses – Machico, Desertas and Serras – giving you several different combinations and making Santo da Serra particularly good for golfers wanting to play more than once during their stay.

The Machico and Desertas courses form the championship combination traditionally used for the Madeira Islands Open. The Machico nine contains some of the most memorable holes on the property, with dramatic elevation changes and incredible views across Machico Bay and the Atlantic. This is where Santo da Serra really shows off its location, with several tee shots where the scenery is almost as distracting as the golf.

Desertas continues the championship challenge, combining generous fairways with strategic bunkering, changes in elevation and greens where finding the correct section is important. Four teeing options on every hole mean the course can be adapted to different abilities, but from the back tees there is plenty to test experienced golfers.

The Serras Course provides a slightly different experience. Set farther inland amongst lush mountain scenery, it has wider fairways and a more peaceful feel, although water hazards, altitude and wind still make distance judgement important. We particularly like having Serras available for an additional nine or as part of a different 18-hole combination.

Santo da Serra also has excellent practice facilities, including a three-tier driving range, two putting greens, a chipping green and practice bunker. Professional coaching is available through the Golf Academy, while the Pro Shop offers equipment hire, trolleys and buggies.
The clubhouse is another highlight, with a panoramic restaurant and terrace overlooking the surrounding landscape. After golf, it is an ideal spot to sit back and take in the views before heading back towards Funchal or Machico.

For golfers looking for spectacular scenery, championship pedigree and three contrasting nine-hole layouts, Santo da Serra is an essential part of a Madeira golf holiday. Speak to our Golf Travel Experts at Hashtag Golf Travel and we can combine Santo da Serra with Porto Santo, Palheiro Golf and your preferred Madeira accommodation.