Photo: Cristina Glebova · Unsplash License
Algarve, Portugal
Quinta do Lago South Course
William Mitchell's 1974 design at Quinta do Lago — host of the Portuguese Open eight times and one of the Algarve's benchmark championship layouts.
Course overview
Designed by William Mitchell and opened in 1974, the South Course is Quinta do Lago's most celebrated layout. Umbrella pines frame a relatively flat parkland test that requires precise shaping from the tee: the front nine favours a draw, while the back nine rewards a fade. The course has hosted the Portuguese Open eight times; in 1989, Colin Montgomerie carded a 63 and finished 24 under par — a record score for the tournament. The South Course measures 6,500 metres from the championship tees.
The essentials
- Architect
- William Mitchell
- Established
- 1974
- Type
- Parkland
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 6,500 m
- Handicap
- HCP 0–28
- Location
- Algarve, Portugal
Character & atmosphere
A classic, pine-framed championship layout where shape and strategy matter more than length — the Portuguese Open has returned here eight times, and the closing stretch demands accurate placement from both tee and fairway.
Highlights
Why play here
- Designed by William Mitchell, opened in 1974.
- A challenging round for golfers who enjoy a proper test.
- Part of a full golf resort, with facilities on site.
Facilities
Practical guidance
Plan your visit
How to get there
Faro Airport is just 20 minutes from the Quinta do Lago estate. Car hire, taxis, and private transfers are all straightforward. The estate is signposted from the main EN125 road.
Where to stay
Vilamoura is the Algarve's most established golf resort town, built around a yacht marina. Its concentration of courses, hotels, and dining options makes it the most convenient base for a dedicated golf trip.
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