Scratch golfer or beginner, The Algarve caters in style
By David Brice, Golf International Inc
The accomplished golfer, intent on testing their golf skills against some of the world's most challenging courses, will have their wishes more than satisfied on Portugal's Algarve Coast. The more than 30 layouts calling this handsome, sun-drenched coastline, home, include some 15 courses ranked among Europe's very best, making The Algarve one of the most respected, world class golf destinations in existence. But what of the more casual golfers -- the folks who genuinely enjoy the pure pleasures to be found in chasing that little white ball around a golf course, regardless of how many strokes it may take them?
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In many ways, these are the real backbone of the game; they are the majority of the 26 million players, which statistics tell us, reside in the USA. To them (or should that be us?) golf is only the game it was intended to be and games, including golf, are meant to be enjoyed, regardless of how well -- or not so well -- we may play. Hats off to the "average golfer" to whom golf is not a life or death situation, it's still only a game.
One of the many beauties of golf on The Algarve is to be found in the variety of its courses. Yes, there is an abundance of unforgiving championship layouts, tough enough to test the top European Tour players, but there are also courses where the fear factor is minimalized and players of all levels are all but guaranteed a thoroughly enjoyable time. These tracks are ideal for those of lesser abilities or for a family day of fun golf. They are just as well suited to the seasoned player, trying to improve their short game or even for the rank beginner, picking up a golf club for the very first time.
Nine-hole courses, so often unjustifiably maligned by lower handicappers and the tough guys among us, can offer some very pleasant surprises and the three short courses that are a part of The Algarve's impressive golf collection, fall into this category. Approachable by players of all levels, this trio of sparklers also has the ability to make even the hot-shot, doubting Thomases among us, think again.
Vale de Milho Golf is a prime example of what a 9-hole course can be when the design is undertaken by one of the world's most respected golf architects, in this case Dave Thomas, the respected British Designer, whose portfolio includes England's fabled Belfry.
Enjoying a spectacular location, overlooking the Atlantic, this is a scaled down version of a full sized course, with a standard of maintenance normally only afforded a championship layout. An amazing amount of variety has been squeezed into the intriguing layout, where large contoured greens, mature trees, lakes and a multitude of bunkers provide a never-ending array of testy challenges. Popular with low handicappers, eager to sharpen their iron play, the Golf School holds an especially warm welcome for beginners. Resident pro, Anthony Verbunt, a charming Dutchman with endless patience and perfect English, takes all new-comers to the game, under his personal and very attentive supervision.
Balaia Golf Club is another 9-hole layout that makes a specialty out of caring for those who are new to the game, amid beautiful surroundings that although distracting, will convince any beginner that golf is definitely the right game for them.
Undulating fairways and perfectly conditioned greens somehow manage to bring out the very best in all who tackle this charmer. With holes varying in length from 67 to 160 meters, there's variety aplenty, making Balaia another excellent classroom for the better players looking to improve on their short game.
This picturesque course is dominated by Balaia's magnificent clubhouse, where beginners and old-timers alike can enjoy the excellent restaurant. It's also the chance for another golf lesson in how to celebrate a good round, commiserate on a poor round, or anything in between, with a traditional drink or two.
Pine Cliffs Golf Club is the shining star of The Algarve's 9-hole layouts and many maintain the best short course in all of Europe. Aided somewhat by its dramatic cliff-top setting, this is a course that will convert even the most jaded traditionalist into a 9-hole believer and should be included on any Algarve golf trip. The fact that noted designer, Martin Hawtree, was responsible for Pine Cliffs, may help reassure those who remain doubtful that this is indeed a special layout.
Main attraction is the spectacular ninth hole, named the Devil's Parlour. Played from the very edge of a precipitous ravine sitting high above the Atlantic, it requires a 200 yard carry across the beach to a deep and frighteningly narrow green. It's a time for wobbly knees and sweaty palms, but a memory likely to be with you for years to come.
No place for novices you may think, but you would be wrong. Pine Cliffs also offers a state of the art golf academy that welcomes beginners and intermediate players alike and always with open arms. The Devil's Parlour is understandably held back until graduation day.
Penina Golf Club, world-renowned for its championship course, designed by the great Henry Cotton, is also home to another very good 9-hole layout, especially laid out for those who are new to the game. Take a few lessons at Penina's golf school and you'll be prepared to graduate from the 9-hole Academy Course, to the very forgiving, 18-hole Resort Course. For those who learn well, Penina's great Championship Course, might well come within reach, but if not this time, then certainly on your next golf trip to The Algarve -- and there will be more, on that you can be assured.
The Algarve is without question, one of Europe's most important golfing Meccas with a staggering array of courses offering something for everyone, no matter what their level of golfing skills might be. Combine all of these golfing delights with the multitude of attractions and temptations the region offers away from the courses, add in the excellent value for money and you have an unbeatable combination.
If you are looking for a very special vacation and perhaps the best ever, Portugal's Algarve Coast has to be at the very top of your short list. Looking for a few more ideas on how to get the most out of an Algarve trip? Click here.
©2008 David Brice / Golf International, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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