Penina Golf Course – Western Algarve Golf Guide

Address: Penina Hotel & Golf Resort, Portimão, Algarve, Portugal
GPS Coordinates: 37.1425, -8.6022
Website: Penina Golf
PAR: 73
Holes: 18
Designer: Sir Henry Cotton

About the Course

Penina Golf Course is an iconic championship course and the first 18-hole course built in the Algarve. Designed by the legendary Sir Henry Cotton, this par-73 masterpiece in Portimao offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with tree-lined fairways, strategically placed water hazards, and fast greens.

The course has hosted multiple Portuguese Open tournaments, cementing its status as one of Portugal’s premier golf destinations. The layout features long par 4s and risk-reward par 5s, demanding accuracy and course management from golfers of all levels.

With its lush fairways, impeccable greens, and traditional parkland design, Penina provides an authentic championship golf experience in the Western Algarve.

Holes to Watch Out For

  • Hole 5 (Par 3): A tough par 3 with a large water hazard guarding the green.
  • Hole 12 (Par 4): A narrow fairway lined with trees, requiring a precise drive.
  • Hole 18 (Par 5): A spectacular finishing hole with a dogleg approach to an elevated green.

Course Tips & Tricks

  • General Advice: Focus on accuracy rather than distance; the fairways are narrow, and positioning is key.
  • Best Club Choices: Long irons and fairway woods are essential to navigating the course effectively.
  • Fast Greens or Slow Greens? Greens tend to be fast and true, especially during summer.

Green Fees

💰 Price Range: €85 – €150 (seasonal rates apply)
🎟️ Best Way to Book: Directly via the Penina Golf website or through Algarve golf travel operators.
🗓️ Seasonal Pricing: Higher rates in peak golf months (March – October).

Clubhouse Facilities

  • Pro Shop: Stocked with premium golfing gear and accessories.
  • Restaurant/Bar: Offers Portuguese and international cuisine with views over the course.
  • Locker Rooms & Showers: Available for all players.
  • Buggy & Club Rental: Yes, including high-end club rental options.
  • Practice Area: Extensive facilities including a driving range, putting green, and chipping area.

Best Time to Play

🌞 Weather Considerations: Spring and autumn provide the best playing conditions.
🏌️ Course Conditions: Well-maintained year-round, with the best fairway conditions in spring.
⏳ Peak & Off-Peak Tee Times: Mornings are ideal; late afternoons can be quieter.

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Vilamoura
Penina Golf Course
10:13 am, Apr 6, 2026
temperature icon 17°C
scattered clouds
Humidity Humidity: 74 %
Pressure Pressure: 1018 mb
Wind Wind: 16 mph
Wind Gust Wind Gust: 24 mph
Clouds Clouds: 37%
Visibility Visibility: 6 mi
Sunrise Sunrise: 7:12 am
Sunset Sunset: 8:00 pm
Weather from OpenWeatherMap

Hotels Nearby

🏨 Penina Hotel & Golf Resort – A luxury 5-star resort on-site with direct golf access.
🏨 Tivoli Portimão – A premium hotel near the Portimão Marina, perfect for golfers.

How to Get There

🚖 Taxi & Private Transfers
For a stress-free journey, book a private transfer with YellowFish Transfers. They provide door-to-door service from Faro Airport or anywhere in the Algarve.

🚗 Driving Directions
From Portimão, take the N125 towards Alvor. Follow signs for Penina Hotel & Golf Resort, which is just 10 minutes from the town centre.

🚍 Public Transport
Buses operate between Portimão and Alvor, but taxis or private transfers are recommended for direct access.

Pro’s Verdict

🏆 Expert Summary:
Penina Golf Course is a historic championship course that delivers a classic parkland golfing experience. Its demanding layout, stunning fairways, and rich tournament history make it a must-play for serious golfers visiting the Algarve.

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