Choosing the Right Algarve Golf Break

The Algarve packs more than 40 golf courses into a single region, which is exactly why so many first-time golf visitors end up on a course that does not suit their group.

The central Algarve around Vilamoura and Quinta do Lago has the big-name championship courses, but they come with championship green fees and can be demanding for higher handicappers. The western Algarve around Lagos offers excellent value and more forgiving layouts.

My advice is always to be honest about the standard of your group. A mixed-ability society will have a far better week on a rotation of mid-tier courses than struggling round a tournament course that punishes every loose shot.

Book tee times and hotels together where you can — the resort-and-golf packages often work out better value than arranging them separately, and I can usually get preferential rates through our suppliers.