Internationally recognised as one of the best courses in Europe, San Lorenzo provides a unique yet representative Portuguese golfing experience. The lush, well maintained, fairways are a stark contrast to the typically aired Portuguese countryside and act as an oasis by the ocean.
The front nine has long been one of my favourites in the region leading away from the luxurious clubhouse down to the beach. A series of straightforward doglegs is an adequate warm up to my version of Portugal's 'Amen Corner'. This challenging set of coastal holes are as distractingly beautiful as they are demanding, featuring high elevated tees that feed down to tight hazard flanked fairways. Despite the damage to your scorecard you will walk away inspired.
Once you survive the perils of the front nine the back offers something different entirely, moving inland for a parkland/wetland experience. Large open fairways really allow you to hit long and play your game with the most astonishing finishing holes which follow the natural hazards of the Ria Formosa nature reserve. I look forward to the 18th all round as the s-shaped fairway feeds through two sets of water onto a peninsula green which is rarely hit in two but a beautiful golfing spectacle.
Rates: Until the end of October
However golf is only one of many luxuries provided by this excellent resort.
Accommodation
Partnered with the San Lorenzo golf resort the Dona Filipa Hotel is the most prestigious 5 star hotel in the region located in the very popular Vale do Lobo. Situated in the heart of the Algarve's tourist region the Dana Filipa is literally a stone's throw away from the Algarve's best beaches, restaurants, bars and shops providing a little bit of everything.
Having stayed in the Dona Filipa on my first visit to Portugal I can ensure you that you won't find any better, without renting your own villa. The comfort and style of the rooms is superb and the hotel offers a suit of facilities including fantastic dining, business/conference facilities, pools, snooker/games rooms, spa treatments, child care and a kids Kangaroo club for the little ones. Excellent service accompanies a relaxed, sun soaked vibe that will have everyone wanting to come back for more.
Coupled with the golf, the great weather and being able to walk to many of the regions local hotspots the San Lorenzo Golf Resort & Dona Filipa Hotel offer the best Algarve holiday experience for the whole family From tots to teens, mums and dads and any avid golfer.
Dependent on time of year, early reservation and package option.
- Start from 215 Euros per person, per room, including a round of golf, breakfast and dinner.
- Some packages include free unlimited golf with the stay or free access to the Vale do Lobo Royal Spa.
