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Why a Portugal golf trip offers luxury at a relative bargain
West Cliffs, which opened in 2017, was routed through a sandy coastal property with striking elevated views of the Atlantic Ocean.
When Xander Schauffele landed his second major championship in three months, capturing the Open Championship at Royal Troon this summer, he faced weighty decisions: What libation would he consume first from golf’s most historic jug? Also, where could Schauffele and his wife dial it back and recharge during an off week between Scotland and the Olympic Games in Paris?
Claret jug in tow, Schauffele took aim for Portugal. These days, that’s a popular choice. Within a game that thrives on buzz, Portugal has blossomed as a glowing golf destination with lots to offer.
West Cliffs alternates between elevated cliffs to holes that sit in low sea-salt vegation, like the 11th hole (above).
Portugal, particularly the central region within an hour of Lisbon, has everything. Easy flights, ocean views, mild weather, intriguing culture, savory food and wine, and a growing palette of golf continue to make this country a sound choice for avid players. Best of all, compared to other more tried-and-true traditional golf destinations across Europe, such as Scotland or Ireland, Portugal presents a relative bargain.
From Porto to the north to the country’s Algarve Region along the southernmost coast, Portugal is a landing spot where in 7-10 days one really can see and experience a great deal. Lisbon offers an attractive mix of beauty and history, but as the nation’s capital city, predating Rome and Paris in western Europe, Lisbon also can be a busy hub. Premier Golf can help visitors enjoy the best of two worlds: book a stay closer to the west coast’s finer golf offerings, falling asleep to the lullaby of crashing waves, and save an evening or two in Lisbon to sample the food, culture and bustling nightlife.
American architect Arthur Hills didn’t often work outside the U.S., but the nature preserve site he got for Oitavos Dunes on the southwest coast of Portugal was one of the best of his long career.
Portuguese golf has become a solid option in Europe. From Oitavos Dunes in scenic Cascais and Terras da Comporta to the south and west (a course by Spanish legends Jose Maria Olazabal and Sergio Garcia soon will join David McLay Kidd’s first Portugal design at Terras da Comporta) to offerings along the Silver Coast such as West Cliffs (opening photo), Royal Obidos and Praia D’El Rey, the quality of golf is rising. Portugal has 90 courses, with more on the way.
Rest up and relax at the elegant Palacio Estoril Hotel or the Marriott Praia D’El Rey, which offers stately leisure facilities that complement an oceanfront Cabell Robinson golf course. West Cliffs is a windswept beauty built by Cynthia Dye (Pete’s niece) with amazing views out over the Atlantic. Book a transfer to play Penha Longa, a course that weaves through ancient ruins and has been home to multiple Portuguese Opens.
The beaches, the wine, the quaint ancient fishing villages and fresh seafood, the delectable custard egg tarts (the secret recipe was passed down centuries ago by monks) and more combine to fill Portugal with immense promise. There is plenty new to go along with the breathtaking old. The two make a great pairing. In golf circles, Portugal, especially the area surrounding Lisbon, is a nice surprise waiting to be unwrapped, a nicely held secret to be savored.
Claret jugs are optional, of course.
