Course Information

Location. Faro (12km) Vilamoura (8km)

The Royal Golf Course, set amongst lakes and lush vegetation, takes players through pine and fig tree bordered fairways, then surprises with exhilarating sea views. A par 72 course, this superb test includes three demanding par 3 holes. One of these is the magnificent cliff-top 16th hole. Originally the 7th hole, this has a spectacular carry over the russet cliffs and is one of the most celebrated golfing images in the world. A well-known symbol of the Algarve said to be the most photographed golf hole in Europe. Based on original concepts by the legendary, late Sir Henry Cotton re-developed by respected American Golf Architect, Rocky Roquemore, the Royal examines a golfer's game like few courses can.

These enviable golf facilities, combined with the Algarve's excellent climate, a choice of outstanding property, 2km of sandy beach and a selection of fine restaurants, make Vale do Lobo the perfect destination for a holiday or year round golfing lifestyle.


Pro’s Playing Tips
The opening holes are a soft introduction to some testing later ones. The par 4 - 6th for example at 395 metres has water on the left of the green and bunkers on the right. A good drive to a narrow landing area still requires a bold approach to the protected green. The par 3 – 9th (155 metres) features a near island green. However, Roquemore has set the tees in a wide arc in front of the picturesque lake, making club selection difficult. Alternatively for those who prefer a more delicate approach, a safe passage exists to the right.

The 11th, a par 5 of 485 metres is a good test. It is essential to get a good drive away because the second shot will be to a narrow landing area between a lake and a steep bank. Only from this point is it possible to expect a comfortable approach to a green protected to its left and in front by water.

The 16th (formerly the 7th of the ‘Yellow’ course) is the spectacular par 3 of 205 metres across the red sandstone cliffs for which Vale do Lobo is famous. While there have been some minor changes here, nothing can detract from the sheer beauty of the hole. Views from each of the tees are out along the length of the coastline westwards. And so to the last hole – don’t lose concentration at this point! With a fairway sloping off to the right, it is advisable to drive to the left. However the fairway is lined on both sides with pines which are constricting in the mind’s eye. At 330 metres, this closing hole is not particularly long but the green has raised banking to the left and the ground falls steeply away to the right. The approach shot must be committed and well positioned to have the satisfaction of the ball remaining firmly on the green.

• Par 72
• Handicap Men 28
• Handicap Ladies 36
• Distance Men 5655 m
• Distance Ladies 4935 m
• Facilities and Services
• Clubhouse
• Bar, lounge, snack bar and restaurant.
• Changing rooms and adjacent lockers.
• Terrace overlooking the first tees of the Royal and Ocean courses and putting green.
• Roving buggy with drinks and snacks on course.
• Driving Range
• Putting Green
• Chipping Green
• Golf Academy
• Golf Shop
• *Buggies €60.00
• Electric Trolley: €25.00
• Club Hire: €40.00
• Lessons
• One Hour Lesson € 75.00
• Half Hour Lesson € 40.00
• *Prices are approximate.

 Pre Book your tee times with Saltire Golf Holidays and take advantage of discounted golf rates. Handicap Certificates must be available for inspection by the caddy master. Failure to provide proof of handicap can result in cancellation of tee time – without refund.

Golf Academy
Located at Parque do Golfe, Vale do Lobo's Golf Academy features excellent practise facilities which are used by Vale do Lobo's Professionals in their Tour preparation, including netted driving area and short game practice area. The Golf Academy's facilities also include two putting greens and individual or group lessons for all ages by appointment with the Resident Professional Steve Walker.

Putting Greens
Vale do Lobo's two putting greens, which are located at the central Parque do Golfe area, are pleasing to the eye and unusual - in that they feature striking outdoor sculptures. Such a setting in beautifully sculpted grounds means that the greens are an inspiring place to practise on, offering stimulation for the mind as well as providing ample scope to sharpen up one’s game.


Shopping Centre
In Vale do Lobo Shopping Centre a Nevada Bob's Golf outlet caters for all your golfing equipment and clothing needs - from basic every day staples such as golf balls, gloves and soft spikes through to top of the range sporting apparel.

With an established brand name and a 30-year trading history, Nevada Bob's Golf has developed a global network and is recognised as the world's largest chain of specialist golf stores. There are currently over 40 stores across Europe, with 30 in the UK and Ireland and 11 in continental Europe, including France, Holland, Portugal, Italy, Iceland, and Finland. All of the chain's outlets carry over 2500 products - including all the major brands such as Callaway, Mizuno, Ping, Titliest and Taylor-Made.

Dress Code and Etiquette
All players are required to follow the dress code:
- Proper golf shoes with soft spikes only
- Socks to be worn at all times
- Collared shirts or short-sleeved mock collar tops to be worn at all times (no t-shirts, tank-tops or similar)
- Golf trousers or tailored shorts only (no jeans, bathing shorts, football shorts etc.)

Players should ensure that any electronic device taken onto the course does not distract other players. All players must therefore refrain from using mobile phones whilst on the Courses or in the Clubhouse area.

Instructions issued by members of staff must be followed at all times.

One golf bag is allowed per player.

No unaccompanied children (under 12s) are allowed on the courses.