The is the oldest of the five Vilamoura courses that form part of a luxury resort development close to fantastic beaches. Course designer Frank Pennink wanted to create a course in the Algarve that would remind players of those beautiful, challenging inland British courses. He achieved that perfectly in a par 73 golf course.
Opened in 1969, the lush fairways of the course run through surrounding pine trees. This is a very attractive course with a great variety of holes. The course was completely remodelled in 1996 when several improvements were made including a new clubhouse. This is one of the courses in Portugal that will stand out in the memory of all visiting golfers.
The Par 3 holes are all different and visually very beautiful, representing the toughest challenge on the course. They require careful selection of irons and near-perfect ball control. Over the rest of the course, trees play a decisive role, lining the doglegs and punishing any careless strokes. The greens are small, especially on the shorter holes, where there is simply no margin for error.
The first three hole will hopefully settle you down into your regular swing the par 3 - 4th is not very long at 163 metres, visibly it is very memorable - a small lake with a lone umbrella pine beyond. The green and tee are elevated so the tee shot must be played over these two 'hazards' and club selection is paramount. The majestic pine trees are the trade mark of the Old Course and potentially it's greatest challenge. The 9th a par 4 of 265 metres is a prime example - the tee is elevated, the green is elevated, the faiway generous and the green visible, no problem (but put the driver back in the bag). There are three par 5's on the back nine, the longest is the 16th at 514 metres is a supreme test of distance and accuracy to reach the green in regulation. A Super Golf Course!
Length: Championship: 6254 metres | Mens: 5913 metres | Ladies: 5086 metres | Par: 73
Slope Rating: 135 | Course Rating: 75.7
Requirements: Handicap Certificate. Max: Men - 24, Ladies - 28
Dress Code: Only soft spikes are allowed. Tailored shorts or trousers, Polo shirts, Golf shoes
Facilities: Club House, pro-shop, restaurant, bar, buggy bar on the course, putting-green, driving range.
Local Rules: to be read in conjunction with the FPG golf rules and any temporary local rules.
Out of Bounds: White stakes
Course Signage:
Players with buggies must follow the paths and course signage at all times, 100 and 150 meters distance posts are in meters measured to the front of the green.
Course layout:
Take a tour around the course