Ribagolfe Golf Club
Samora Correia
Ribagolfe Golf Club was a distinctive 36-hole golf venue set within the peaceful Ribatejo countryside near Samora Correia, east of Lisbon. Surrounded by a vast forest of native cork oak trees, the club offered two contrasting 18-hole, par-72 courses with very little development around the fairways, creating a wonderfully quiet and natural golfing environment.
The longer and more demanding Lakes Course was designed by former Ryder Cup golfer Peter Townsend in partnership with European Golf Design. Measuring approximately 6,707 metres from the back tees, it was created with tournament golf in mind. Narrower fairways, strong bunkering and strategically positioned water hazards placed a premium on accurate driving and careful course management. The closing stretch was particularly memorable, with water influencing the par-five 12th, short par-four 14th and all-carry par-three 15th.
The Oaks Course was designed by former Ryder Cup player Michael King, also working with European Golf Design. At approximately 6,214 metres, it provided a slightly more forgiving alternative, with broader fairways and larger landing areas. However, its moderately contoured greens, pot bunkers, streams and water hazards ensured golfers still needed to think carefully throughout the round.
Together, the courses made Ribagolfe a strong option for golf groups wanting two different challenges in one location. Better players could test themselves against the length and tighter playing corridors of the Lakes, while the Oaks offered an enjoyable round for a wider range of handicaps.
The club’s position also allowed golfers to combine peaceful countryside golf with time in Lisbon, where visitors could explore the historic neighbourhoods, waterfront, restaurants and nightlife of the Portuguese capital.
Lisbon Airport
47km
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England’s best golf tour operator 2026 winner
Time Zone:
GMT+0
Currency:
British Pound
Temperature:
00-00℃
Cost of a Beer:
£5.00
Cost of a 3-Course Meal:
£5.00
Hashtag Guide
About The Area
Samora Correia is an excellent base for a peaceful golf holiday near Lisbon, offering countryside scenery, traditional Portuguese character and several highly regarded courses within easy reach. Located in the Ribatejo region, around 38 kilometres by road from Lisbon Airport, it provides convenient access for UK golfers without the busier atmosphere or higher prices often found in the capital’s main tourist districts.
The biggest golfing attraction is Ribagolfe, situated among cork-oak woodland at Herdade da Vargem Fresca. Golfers can choose between two 18-hole layouts: Ribagolfe Lakes, the longer and more demanding championship course, and Ribagolfe Oaks, which provides a slightly more forgiving but still enjoyable challenge. Both courses make excellent use of the quiet Ribatejo countryside, creating a wonderfully natural setting away from busy roads and built-up resorts. Nearby Santo Estêvão Golf is another worthwhile addition to an itinerary. Designed by Donald Steel, its generous fairways, natural undulations and established cork oaks make it suitable for mixed-handicap groups.
Away from the course, Samora Correia offers walking and cycling trails, riverside areas and easy access to the Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve. The Companhia das Lezírias estate provides opportunities for birdwatching, wine tasting and discovering the region’s vineyards, olive groves and famous Lusitano horses. In the town itself, golfers can visit the historic Infantado Palace and the tiled Church of Nossa Senhora da Oliveira.
Local food is another highlight. Look out for torricado, Ribatejo-style toasted bread brushed with olive oil, garlic and salt, traditionally served with fish or meat. Spring and autumn are particularly appealing for a Samora Correia golf break, combining comfortable playing conditions with quieter courses. With Lisbon close enough for an evening or day trip, the town is ideal for golfers seeking good-value golf, authentic food and a relaxed Portuguese escape.
