Palmares Golf

Palmares Ocean Living & Golf overlooks the Bay of Lagos and the Alvor estuary at the eastern end of Meia Praia. The original 18 holes, designed by Frank Pennink, were rebuilt by Robert Trent Jones Jr. as 27 holes in three loops of nine, opening in 2010 and 2011. Any two loops make a par-72 round of about 6,100 to 6,300 metres.

Each nine has its own character. Alvor climbs and drops through mature pine forest. Lagos starts in parkland around two lakes and then crosses open dunes. Praia is the most unusual, with four links holes beside the beach and natural dunes, which is rare in the Algarve. Expect blind shots, pot bunkers and plenty of wind. The clubhouse, by the Pritzker Prize-winning RCR Arquitectes, has a restaurant and bar with views over the bay. There is also a 300-metre driving range, a golf academy and short-game areas.