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This superb 9-hole course is a test of a golfer’s short game. A compact layout of interesting holes, the design encompasses regularly sized greens, ingenious water hazards and bunkers similar to those found on a full course. First-class service and amenities include a computerized swing analysis. Ideal for combining a little golf with regular excursions to the nearby beaches.

With its sweeping views of the ocean, this splendid course was the last work of eminent designer Sir Henry Cotton. Over 10,000 trees were planted on the par 72 layout, attracting a wealth of colourful birdlife. Aside from the 604-m (nearly 2,000-ft) 16th, the course is not overly difficult and can be enjoyed by golfers of all standards.

A compact, 9-hole course laid out amid the Championship fairways. The ease of play should relax even the most nervous of players, and the adjoining golf academy offers individual or group tuition.

Popular with beginners as well as the more adroit, this layout, completed in 2001, is recommended for the holiday golfer who prefers a fairly relaxed game. It requires concentration, however, especially for club selection, as the holes vary in length more than one might expect of a 9-hole course.

A beautiful, rolling par 71 course, with widely varying holes and a mix of coastal and mountain views. The outward nine are relatively easy, but the trickiness factor picks up in the back nine, particularly on the 15th and 18th, the latter having out of bounds areas on either side close to the green.

Originally a standard 18-hole course, a third 9-hole loop was introduced, allowing for three combinations of 18 holes. The course features daunting water hazards and large, contoured greens. The club also has an excellent driving range and academy.

Bordering the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, this par 72 layout affords the distraction of some spectacular ocean views. Amid olive and carob trees, some of the man-made lakes have now become home to many species of waterfowl. Elsewhere, greens skirt a vineyard and an orange grove.

The excellent par 71 Atlantic Course commands glorious views across the River Guadiana and to Spain beyond. The new layout features a number of lakes, undulating fairways and elevated greens, and has been designed to offer a challenging yet relaxing experience to golfers of all levels.

Gramacho has recently gained another 9-hole layout to add to the original double nine, and the combination allows for a variety of options in pin settings and length to suit both high and low handicappers.

Beaches fringing Lagos in the near-distance make this par 71 layout a year-round holiday favourite, and the course features five links holes that take you into dunes close to the ocean – a beguiling challenge.