Perched on a south-facing hillside above the Bay of Lagos, Palmares is a masterclass in dramatic golf design. Robert Trent Jones Jr. transformed the original 1975 layout into a stunning 27-hole resort that flows seamlessly from rolling parkland to authentic links terrain to pure beachfront dunes. Each nine-hole loop—Alvor, Lagos, and Praia—offers a distinctly different personality, but all deliver the same breathtaking views of the Alvor Estuary, Meia Praia Beach, and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.
This is golf theater. The Alvor nine climbs and descends through pine-lined corridors with strategic elevation changes; the Lagos loop blends parkland character with explosive dune holes; the Praia section hugs the coastline with four holes running directly along the sand, where you'll play with the crash of waves as your soundtrack. The course doesn't just sit on its setting—it celebrates it from every tee.
The conditions here are world-class, and the new clubhouse—designed by Pritzker Prize winners RCR Architects—is a showstopper with 180-degree views and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Groups will find exceptional practice facilities, flexible loop combinations, and a genuine sense that they're playing something special, not just another resort track.
The real bonus: you can stay steps away at the intimate Onyria Palmares Beach House Hotel, a boutique 20-room property that feels like your own oceanfront villa. Most golf groups come for the course; they stay for the experience.
Parkland nine through pine forests with significant elevation changes and views down to the estuary.
Blended parkland and links with elevation play, featuring the course's two water holes and dramatic dune holes.
Pure links golf along the coast with four holes running directly along the beach and Meia Praia; the most exposed and dramatic of the three.
Onyria Palmares Beach House Hotel is a luxury adults-only boutique property with 18 rooms and 2 suites, each with panoramic sea views, private balconies/terraces, and premium amenities. Located 700 meters from the beach and directly adjacent to the golf course. The hotel features a saltwater pool, 180-degree bar and restaurant (Al Sud with Michelin recognition), and Mediterranean cuisine. Also on property: Palmares Signature Apartments, a 37-unit 5-star self-catering option with 1-3 bedroom layouts overlooking Lagos Bay and Meia Praia.