Situated in the East Algarve, Monte Rei boasts unspoiled views of the dramatic Serra do Caldeirão Mountains to the north and Atlantic Ocean to the south.

The Course

Designer Jack Nicklaus saw potential for this "rugged piece of land" and has developed one of the most naturally formed courses I've had the pleasure to play. The terrain has been perfectly utilised to create a sweeping 7,181 yard course which cuts through deep valley fairways, with stunning lake views present in eleven of the eighteen holes.

The north course is difficult and plays very long with a number of sweeping dogleg par fours, long hazardous par fives and heavily bunkered par threes. The mountainous layout of the unspoiled Portuguese countryside means you are hitting from an elevated position off almost every tee into lush, well maintained fairways. The strategic bunkering adds to the beauty and difficulty of the course but the conditions are the best I've seen in the region all year round.



The greens are superb and some of the hardest and quickest I've played. Often being faced with subtle double breaks and illusive lines mean you need to be on form with the putter to achieve a good score. However this course isn't about scoring but the beauty presented at each tee. This course's flawless make up leaves you breathless hole after hole and wanting to come back for more.

Green Fees (including buggy):

• Summer rates (March 15th - November 14th): 190 Euros or 135 Euros after 2pm
• Winter Visitors Fee (November 15th - March 14th): 150 Euros

The Clubhouse

The clubhouse features a modern twist on a traditional Portuguese Quinta and the level of service is remarkable. You will be escorted to the range and tee by your own course manager and even receive your own engraved metal bag tag as a memento. Monte Rei's attention to detail and uncompromising service really makes it stand head and shoulders above the rest.

The club has four different restaurants and a number of bars, from a golfers grill to a fine dining veranda all catered by legendary resident chef Jaime Perez - who creates everything from beautifully presented tapas through to delicious pastas, bar food and much more.

Monte Rei really provides something amazing and unique in the Algarve. Situated only 40 minutes away from Faro airport the resort is just far enough away to provide a peaceful, unspoiled view of Portugal without the often over crowded tourism associated with the coast.

Nearby is the ancient town of Tavira which boasts an old romantic view of Portugal with canals, bars, restaurants and stunning accommodation if you are looking to stay in a beautiful town.

Further, just an hour and half away, across the Spanish border, is Saville. This stunning and historic city provides you with the best Spain has to offer. Saville is a city that is both inviting and intoxicating.

If you're looking to get away from tourist developments to relax and explore Monte Rei and the East Algarve is the place for you.