San Lorenzo

Algarve elegance with Atlantic drama. San Lorenzo is scenic, strategic, and still one of Portugal’s most iconic layouts.

Slope Rating

136 Par

72 Yardage

6,822

Set within the Ria Formosa Natural Park, San Lorenzo offers a beautiful, flowing layout with sea breezes, lakes, and pine-lined corridors. Designed by Joseph Lee and opened in 1988, it quickly earned a reputation as one of Europe’s finest – thanks to its strategic test and photogenic holes. The front nine winds through umbrella pines, with elevation changes and clever doglegs. From the 5th hole onwards, the course opens out towards the sea, delivering breathtaking views and demanding shot-making. The back nine is even stronger – holes 6 to 8 and 16 to 18 play along the lagoon, exposing players to crosswinds and narrow landing areas. The par-4 6th is a standout – a sweeping dogleg along the marsh with danger all down the left. Greens are firm, fairways tight, and water ever-present. It’s not overly long, but precision is critical. San Lorenzo combines natural beauty with championship edge – a must-play in the Algarve.

Designer

Joseph Lee

Opened

1988

Tee time availability

Fair

Special information

Access is often limited to guests of Dona Filipa Hotel. Early booking recommended. Caddies by request.

Tiger’s best round

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Rory’s best round

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Mens course record

64 – club competition

Ladies course record

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Round duration

4 hours 30 minutes

Caddy guide

Optional – helpful on windier days and for local green reads

Buggies

Available – not essential, but recommended for comfort in heat

Control your ball flight. Favour fade off the tee to avoid left-side trouble. Greens are quick and well protected. Play smart around the water-laced closing holes.

Avoid the big miss. Play conservatively off tees with trouble left. Use hybrid and fairway woods to stay in play. Club up in coastal winds and trust your swing.

Choose forward tees. Fairways are tight but manageable. Don’t chase flags – focus on fairway and green. Enjoy the views and play to your strengths.

Green speed

10 – quick, pure surfaces with coastal firmness

Wind

Sea breezes often influence shots – especially on exposed holes by the lagoon

Pace of play

Good – resort management ensures steady play, especially in morning slots

Nerves on the first tee

Low – sheltered start among pines with friendly resort atmosphere

Clubhouse

Traditional Portuguese charm – relaxed, open-air terrace with golf course and water views

The 6th is a dramatic par-4 hugging the lagoon – risk-reward with danger all left. The 17th, a short par-3 over marshland, is visually intimidating. The 18th is a beautiful and strategic closer with water short and left.

Sun-soaked Algarve climate – mild winters and hot, dry summers. Coastal breezes offer relief. Spring and autumn are ideal for firm, fast golf in perfect conditions.