Boavista Golf Resort

Boavista Golf & Spa is a resort on the Quinta da Boavista estate near Lagos, built around an 18-hole championship golf course. Alongside the golf, the resort has townhouse accommodation, a fitness and spa centre, two restaurants (the Clubhouse and La Bistro) and a programme of events, including weddings and corporate gatherings.

The course

The course was designed by Howard Swan and follows the natural shape of the land. Its elevated setting gives wide views east over the Bay of Lagos and north towards the Serra de Monchique hills. It plays as a demanding round, and holes 6 and 8 stand out because the tee shot has to carry a ravine.

The layout falls into two distinct halves. Play opens with a par-4 that winds downhill through sub-tropical planting and past residential properties. The front nine then climbs to the highest point on the resort. The 9th tee is the spot to pause for the panoramic view. The back nine drops into lower ground with streams, lakes, small bridges and plenty of landscaped garden.

Practice and facilities

A dedicated short game area has three greens: one for putting, one for chipping and one ringed by bunkers. There is also a driving range. A resident golf professional gives lessons and advice to anyone who wants to work on their game.

The resort has a golf shop and a caddy master service. Showers with individual cubicles are available to members and guests. A score card and slope rating can be downloaded from the resort's website.

Booking

Tee times can be booked online or through the golf reception, which has its own phone line and email. The course suits golfers who enjoy a hilly, scenic round with a few forced carries. Staying guests also have the spa and restaurants on site.