Palmares Golf is one of the standout golf experiences on Portugal’s western Algarve, combining 27 holes of Robert Trent Jones Jr. design with some of the best ocean views in the region. Set above Meia Praia near Lagos, the course overlooks the Bay of Lagos and Alvor Estuary, with the Atlantic appearing throughout the round. For us, the combination of genuine links-style golf, rolling parkland and spectacular scenery makes Palmares a course that deserves more than one round.

The golf is divided into three distinctive nine-hole loops – Alvor, Lagos and Praia – which can be combined to create different 18-hole experiences. That variety is one of the things we like most about Palmares because each nine has its own personality rather than simply feeling like another section of the same course.

The Alvor Course has more of a parkland character, working across elevated ground with tree-lined fairways and beautiful views towards the coastline. There is plenty of room in places, but position from the tee remains important if you want the best angle into the greens.

The Lagos Course mixes rolling parkland with lakes and eventually moves towards the coastal dunes. It provides a great transition between the inland and seaside sections of Palmares, with elevation changes, strategic bunkering and the Atlantic breeze all influencing club selection.

For us, the Praia Course is where Palmares becomes truly memorable. These holes run through natural dunes beside the sea, creating the closest thing to traditional links golf at the resort. The fairways are more exposed, the wind becomes a bigger factor and the views across Meia Praia and the ocean are superb. Lower shots, creative approaches and sensible course management can become far more useful than simply hitting the ball high and long.

One of the remarkable features of Palmares is just how often you can see the sea. Around 90% of the tee boxes offer ocean views, so even when the coastline is not directly in play, it remains part of the experience.

Practice facilities are excellent too. The Golf Academy includes extensive training areas and six practice greens, providing plenty of opportunity to work on your game before or after a round.

The modern clubhouse sits between Lagos Bay and the Alvor Estuary and is one of our favourite places to finish the day. Its terrace offers panoramic views across the golf course and coastline, making it ideal for lunch, dinner or a post-round drink.

With Palmares Ocean Living & Golf accommodation on site and Lagos only around ten minutes away, Palmares works brilliantly for a dedicated stay-and-play break or a wider western Algarve itinerary.

Speak to our Golf Travel Experts at Hashtag Golf Travel and we can include Palmares Golf within a tailor-made Algarve golf holiday, combining your preferred rounds, accommodation and other leading courses across the region.