Monte Rei North Course is one of the standout golf experiences in the Eastern Algarve, combining a Jack Nicklaus Signature design with peaceful countryside and an exceptional level of service. Set within the Monte Rei Golf & Country Club estate near Vila Nova de Cacela, the course sits between the Serra do Caldeirão mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, giving you a wonderfully secluded setting from the moment you reach the first tee.

Opened in 2007, the 18-hole, par-72 course measures 7,182 yards from the back tees and was designed personally under the Jack Nicklaus Signature banner. Rather than running holes closely alongside one another, the layout uses the natural valleys and mature landscape to give each hole its own character and sense of space.

What we particularly like about Monte Rei is that generous fairways do not necessarily mean straightforward golf. Position from the tee is important if you want the best angle into the greens, while water comes into play on 11 of the 18 holes. The layout features five par 3s, eight par 4s and five par 5s, creating plenty of variety and more opportunities for risk-and-reward golf than you find on many traditional courses.

There are some excellent scoring opportunities for confident players, but Nicklaus continually gives you decisions to make. Streams, lakes, native grasses and strategically positioned bunkers protect the preferred routes, while the changing elevation and breeze coming across the foothills can make club selection surprisingly difficult. The closing par-5 18th provides a particularly enjoyable finish, with a good drive offering stronger players the chance to attack the green in two.

The course underwent an extensive enhancement programme in 2026 in collaboration with Nicklaus Design, including work to the greens and bunkers, expanded teeing areas, upgraded practice facilities and improvements to the wider course infrastructure.

Practice facilities are a major part of the experience. Monte Rei has a full driving range, extensive short-game areas and a Swing Studio, while PGA professionals are available for tuition. The clubhouse overlooks the closing holes and provides a Pro Shop, bar and The Grill for a relaxed meal or drink after your round.

For golfers looking for championship golf in a quieter part of the Algarve, Monte Rei North Course is one we would definitely build into the itinerary. Speak to our Golf Travel Experts at Hashtag Golf Travel and we can include Monte Rei within a tailor-made Algarve golf holiday, combining your preferred accommodation, tee times and other leading courses across the region.