Quinta Do Lago - South

A tour-tested Algarve classic. The South Course offers a polished championship layout set among pine trees and lakes near the coast.

Slope Rating

138

Par

72

Yardage

7,051

The South Course at Quinta do Lago is the flagship of one of Portugal’s most prestigious golf resorts. Opened in 1974 and redesigned in 2020 by Beau Welling in consultation with European Tour legend Paul McGinley, the course has hosted multiple Portuguese Opens and remains a favourite among serious players. Routed through umbrella pines and shimmering lakes, the layout demands precision over power. The front nine is more open, offering scoring chances early, while the back nine winds through tighter corridors and ramps up the difficulty. Greens are slick, well protected, and elevated in places – requiring careful approach play. Water hazards come into play on several holes, most notably the 15th, 17th, and 18th. The course rewards thoughtful strategy, accurate driving, and confident putting. With immaculate conditioning, tour-grade facilities, and a luxurious resort backdrop, the South Course remains a must-play in the Algarve – combining tradition with modern upgrades.

Designer

William Mitchell (1974); redesigned by Beau Welling & Paul McGinley (2020)

Opened

1974

Tee time availability

Fair

Special information

Part of the exclusive Quinta do Lago resort. Early booking recommended. Buggies available but walking permitted.

Tiger’s best round

Rory’s best round

Mens course record

64 – Colin Montgomerie (Portuguese Open)

Ladies course record

Round duration

4 hours 30 minutes

Caddy guide

Not required – GPS buggies available and course is well marked

Buggies

Available and popular – walking is possible but long in summer heat

Shot placement is key – fairways narrow and greens demand quality iron play. Use local knowledge on approach angles and respect the slick putting surfaces. Wind can influence club choice late in the round.

Play to wider zones off the tee and avoid chasing pins. Choose conservative clubs around water and trust the green speed. A steady round can yield a strong score.

Playable with forward tees. Keep the ball in play and use layups near water. Enjoy the scenery, take your time, and pick safe targets. A well-managed round is possible here.

Green speed

10 – fast and firm, particularly in dry season

Wind

Breezes from the Ria Formosa occasionally affect exposed holes – especially 15 to 18

Pace of play

Well managed – tee times spaced and monitored by resort marshals

Nerves on the first tee

Low – wide fairway and flat start allow easy rhythm

Clubhouse

Modern and lively – excellent terrace overlooking finishing hole and lake

The 15th is a beautiful par-3 over water to a narrow green. The 17th is a dramatic par-5 where water guards the approach. The 18th, a long par-4 flanked by trees and water, offers a proper test under pressure and a stunning finish.

Consistently warm and dry. Algarve sun dominates, with little wind early in the day. Spring and autumn offer perfect playing conditions. Summer heat can be intense – opt for early or twilight rounds.