The Algarve is one of the most renowned golfing regions in the world, with golf courses easily accessible throughout the region. Algarve golf holidays are incredibly popular and will often get booked up seasons in advance, making early booking imperative. Whilst a golfing holiday can be a relaxing break for you and your family, you shouldn’t rest on your laurels whilst booking and organising the trip – some good planning can ensure that you will be able to have the best time whilst you are away, and really make the most of the region. With so many golfing opportunities at your fingertips, some careful planning is very much worth it.
Do bear in mind that golf trips in Portugal are very popular all year round, but especially in the summer. The climate in Portugal is warm, and the summer will be pleasant without being overpowering. This makes it an excellent golfing climate, so flights and accommodation can get booked up quickly – especially the good ones. To help, here is a brief guide to planning your Algarve golfing holiday to perfection:
- Book flights as soon as you can. Book your flights when they become available rather than hanging around to see if prices get lower. Generally, this is the time at which the flights will be most competitively prices, as the airlines all compete with one another to be the best priced.
- Base yourself strategically. The Algarve’s best golf courses are generally spread out along the coast. Research the ones you want to go to and plan your games of golf carefully. Then, make sure you are going to stay somewhere that is close by so you can reach golf courses by car.
- Choose accommodation with lots to do. When you’re in Portugal, make the most of it. Don’t limit yourself to golf alone, especially if you are travelling for a longer break. Choose a hotel or golf village that has other options for activities, like swimming pools, spas and restaurants. If you are travelling with non golfers, this is also the best option for them, ensuring they will be well occupied so you don’t have to worry about them whilst you’re on the course.
- Select a golf village that has its own golf course. Many golf courses have accommodation, so see if you can base yourself there. See if there is the option of driving ranges, putting practice areas, and accommodation that is close to the golf course – this will offer your beautiful views as well.
- Sort your transport. If you are travelling out to golf courses, you are probably best to drive yourself. Find out about car hire in Portugal, and see if this is something a golf village can help you with. If you are in a group, you can also think about hiring a car between you, big enough for all your golf clubs and other golfing equipment.
- Pack your sun cream! Portugal will be warm and sunny in summer, so keep safe on the golf courses – and enjoy the heat while you can.