Quinta do Lago South Golf Course

The South Course is the flagship layout of the Quinta do Lago resort, a golf and residential estate on the edge of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Designed by William Mitchell, it was one of the courses that brought American-style greens, tees and bunkers to the Algarve, and it went on to become a regular stop for European Tour professionals.

The course

This is a par 72 of around 6,500 metres, laid out among umbrella pines, lakes and wild flowers with views over the protected lagoon landscape of the Ria Formosa. The two halves have quite different characters. The front nine works its way through parkland and tends to reward a draw, while the back nine circles the lake and suits a fade off the tee.

Doglegs and well-placed hazards put a premium on accurate driving, as finding the right part of the fairway is key to reaching the greens. Low-handicap players will find the 8th, 15th and 18th particularly demanding, but the varied difficulty across the round means the course remains enjoyable for amateurs of different abilities.

Tournament history

The South Course has staged the Portuguese Open eight times. One of its best-known moments came when Colin Montgomerie won the event by 11 strokes at 24 under par, setting a world record along the way with a round of 63.

Facilities

Golfers have access to a clubhouse, pro shop and practice area, plus a driving range. Club rental is available, along with buggy hire, trolley rental and electric trolleys, and there is a buggy bar on the course. Strokesavers are available to help plan your way around.

The wider resort offers tuition through the Paul McGinley Academy, as well as other golf courses, restaurants and accommodation, so the South Course fits easily into a longer golf stay. It suits keen golfers wanting to play a course with real championship history, as well as visitors who simply want a scenic round in natural surroundings.