One of the most desired addresses in Europe, Quinta do Lago in the Algarve, is a unique destination with so much to offer.

The ideal airport for the Algarve is Faro Airport a mere 20minutes drive from our Villa in Quinta do Lago.  Before setting off on our golfing and culinary adventure, we had pre-arranged a rental set for me from Clubs to Hire.  Located at the airport, Clubs to Hire are the No.1 Golf Rental Company in Europe.  The service was quick and efficient, and in no time left with my TaylorMade Jet Speed and Speed Blade Irons, golf bag, tees and golf balls.  We then headed to Hertz Car Hire desk and picked up our vehicle, a Mercedes Shooting Brake, ample room for both sets and luggage.

During our time we played four golf courses, the three courses attached to Quinta do Lago, North, South and Laranjal, all three are championship courses.  The North Course was named Best New Golf Course in Europe at the 2014 World Golf Awards.  The South Course has hosted the Portuguese Open eight times and a real favourite among European Tour Professionals.  Laranjal is an old orangery, orange and cork trees are plentiful, great test with terrific greens, watch out for the Par 3’s!  We also headed into the Serra Do Caldeirao Mountains and played Monte Rei.  The drive was less than an hour, an exceptional course, a must play on your golfing itinerary.  Quinta do Lago has an exclusive training and golf academy in partnership with world-renowned European tour professional and 2014 European Ryder Cup captain, Paul McGinley. The facilities are extremely impressive and all you require.

There are an abundance of excellent restaurants to enjoy on your culinary experience while visiting Quinta do Lago and Encosta do Lobo.  Casa do Lago serves fresh fish and seafood, the Turbot and the Sole are superb.  Bovino is a brand new addition, an impressive steakhouse with splendid interior.  Casa Velha is a fine dining French restaurant, located beside Bovino, serving amazing cuisine.  Parrilla Natural is an outstanding steakhouse and restaurant, full of charisma and personality, famous for its open grill and magical summertime nights.  Cocina Natural is a sister restaurant of Parrilla Natural, severing top-notch food throughout the day.  After dinner we were entertained by the Washington’s a wonderful band.  For a lighter and healthier option, Pure boutique café and juice bar is the go to spot for breakfast and lunch.  For the best Tapas and Cocktails in a breath taking location, head to The Shack Bar.  KoKo Lane for something delicious any time of the day and Gigi’s on the beach for amazing seafood.

There are copious Villas for rent.  If you would prefer the 5* hotel option in Quinta do Lago we would highly recommend The Conrad Algarve and the 5* Dona Filipa Hotel in Vale do Labo.  Vilamoura is less than 30mins drive with lots of hotel options to choose from to suit all budgets.

Endless golfing delights, superb food, great wines and the hospitality of the Portuguese people made our Algarve experience all the greater.

For further information to on our Itineraries to Portugal, please contact info@jdgolf.ie or visit our website for suggested golf trips http://www.jdgolftours.com/destinations/spain-portugal/