Photo: Calvin Seng · Pexels License
Porto / North Portugal, Portugal
Vidago Palace Golf Club
Originally laid out by Mackenzie Ross in 1936 and expanded to 18 holes by Cameron Powell — a historic hilltop parkland course attached to the Belle Époque Vidago Palace Hotel.
Course overview
Vidago Palace Golf Club's origins date to 1936, when Mackenzie Ross designed the original nine holes adjacent to the historic Vidago Palace Hotel in Trás-os-Montes. The course was expanded to 18 holes and redesigned by Cameron Powell, reopening in 2010. From the white tees it measures 6,308 metres with a course rating of 74.0 (slope 140). The layout occupies the hilltop grounds of the hotel's estate, with the closing stretch of holes 16, 17, and 18 played on an elevated plateau offering panoramic views over the Corgo Valley and the northern Portuguese countryside. The course is set within the Vidago Palace Hotel, a restored Belle Époque landmark, and is part of the wider resort complex.
The essentials
- Architect
- Mackenzie Ross
- Established
- 1936
- Type
- Parkland
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 6,308 m
- Handicap
- HCP 0–28
- Location
- Trás-os-Montes, Portugal
Character & atmosphere
A historic hilltop layout where the closing three holes are played on an elevated plateau with panoramic Corgo Valley views — one of northern Portugal's most scenic and demanding finishes.
Highlights
Why play here
- Designed by Mackenzie Ross, opened in 1936.
- A challenging round for golfers who enjoy a proper test.
- Part of a full golf resort, with facilities on site.
Signature Hole
18
The final hole of the elevated closing stretch, played with panoramic views over the Corgo Valley and the Belle Époque hotel below.
Facilities
Practical guidance
Plan your visit
How to get there
Porto Airport is the most practical gateway. The drive northeast to Vidago via the A24 takes around 1.5 hours through the Douro region. Car hire is strongly recommended as Vidago is a remote spa town with limited public transport.
Where to stay
Porto is the natural base for northern Portugal golf, combining access to the coastal links at Estela with one of Europe's most rewarding city experiences. The Douro Valley and Vidago Palace make a natural extension for a longer trip.
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