GreenlitBETA
Almancil, Algarve

Quinta do Lago North

A precision-demanding masterpiece where umbrella pines frame championship golf set against the stunning Ria Formosa landscape.

About the Course

Quinta do Lago North stands as one of the Algarve's most prestigious courses, combining classical charm with modern championship standards. Originally designed by William Mitchell in 1974 with later additions from Joe Lee and Rocky Roquemore, the course underwent a transformative €9.6 million redesign in 2014 by renowned architect Beau Welling in collaboration with European Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley. The result is a beautifully maintained layout that weaves through pristine pine forests and around strategic water hazards, overlooking the protected Ria Formosa Natural Park.

The course favors accuracy and course management over sheer length, with four magnificent par-5s and a series of doglegging par-4s that demand precise shot placement. The signature hole—the 361-meter par-4 12th—features a spectacular 3-acre lake that turns the approach into an unforgettable test. Undulating greens, strategically positioned bunkers, and clever bunkering throughout ensure that golfers of all levels remain engaged from first tee to 18th green.

What makes the North truly special is its ability to challenge without intimidating. With four sets of tees accommodating everyone from beginners to scratch golfers, and fairways bordered by towering pines that provide both beauty and strategic recovery opportunities, the course delivers a complete golfing experience. The recent renovation introduced low-cut Bermuda grass approaches around greens, creating multiple recovery shot options while maintaining the course's demanding character.

The setting is quintessential Algarve—scented pine forests, flower-bordered lakes, and views across the natural park combine to create an almost ethereal golfing experience that golfers find themselves eager to repeat.

Why It's Great for Groups
  • World-class renovation by Paul McGinley and Beau Welling—completely rebuilt greens, tees, bunkers, and drainage systems to championship specifications with €9.6m investment
  • Four magnificent par-5s that play around water hazards and natural terrain, offering genuine risk-reward strategic choices throughout the back nine
  • Signature 12th hole—a 361-meter par-4 doglegging around a stunning 3-acre lake that ranks among Europe's most memorable golf shots
  • Four tee boxes on every hole ensure the course works beautifully for handicap golfers while remaining a formidable test for accomplished players
  • Stunning setting within the protected Ria Formosa Natural Park with umbrella pines framing fairways and nature trails offering relaxation between rounds
Courses on Property
Quinta do Lago North18 holes · Par 72

Championship-standard course redesigned 2014 featuring strategic water hazards, undulating greens, and iconic par-5s set amongst umbrella pines and overlooking Ria Formosa.

Quinta do Lago South18 holes · Par 72

The flagship course hosting the Portuguese Open 8 times, tighter than the North with narrow fairways and championship challenges.

Quinta do Lago Laranjal18 holes · Par 72

Originally an orange grove, this American-style course features five par-5s, five beautiful lakes, and generous wide fairways with subtle water hazards.

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Key Details
💰
Green Fees
$159–$197/person est.
🚶
Walking Friendly
Cart recommended
🎒
Caddies Available
No
📅
Best Time to Visit
October through May delivers the most comfortable playing conditions with mild temperatures and lower humidity. October-November and March-May are particularly excellent—warm enough for shirtsleeves golf but cool enough to walk comfortably without excessive heat. Avoid June-August when temperatures soar and afternoon thunderstorms are common. Green fees are significantly lower in summer and winter, but spring (March-May) offers the best balance of playability, pricing, and weather. The Algarve's famous year-round sunshine means winter rounds are always possible, though mornings can require a jacket.
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Stay on Property
Hotel Quinta do Lago is a Leading Hotel of the World 5-star property directly within the resort, featuring 141 rooms with private balconies, sea and garden views, two restaurants (Brisa do Mar for Portuguese-International cuisine and Cá d'Oro for Italian), spa, fitness center, and direct pedestrian access to private beach. The resort also features The Magnolia Hotel, a newer boutique-style property with vibrant Palm Springs-inspired design.

Hotel Quinta do Lago is a Leading Hotel of the World 5-star property directly within the resort, featuring 141 rooms with private balconies, sea and garden views, two restaurants (Brisa do Mar for Portuguese-International cuisine and Cá d'Oro for Italian), spa, fitness center, and direct pedestrian access to private beach. The resort also features The Magnolia Hotel, a newer boutique-style property with vibrant Palm Springs-inspired design.

Nearby Lodging