Portugal has long been associated with golf, with players flocking from all over Europe and beyond to work on their handicap, practice their swing and try and secure that elusive hole in one. So if you are wondering what all the fuss is about, why not try the golf in Cascais, just west of Lisbon, where the courses are amongst the most diverse in the country.
For centuries the Portuguese royal family headed to Cascais and nearby Sintra during the summer months where they rested and relaxed in their opulent palaces away from the heat of the high season sun. The towns’ royal links, combined with their stunning coastal settings and magical architectural features, have created a sophisticated, cosmopolitan atmosphere that attracts a wealthy, fun-loving crowd all year round.
A number of five-star luxury resorts have sprung up in the local area to meet the exacting demands of its visitors and alongside these, so have a series of excellent golf courses of varying terrain and standards of difficulty. Read on to find out more about the best golf in Cascais.
Quinta da Marinha
One of the best-known courses in the area is the Quinta da Marinha. A challenging course it demands a range of skills and a cautious approach in order not to get caught out on those holes that seem relatively straightforward on the face of it. The fifth and fourteenth are particularly troublesome with steep banks, water and bunkers to navigate. Quinta da Marinha is a popular venue choice for some of Portugal’s most important golfing events. Facilities include a driving range, two putting greens and a pro shop as well as six tennis courts, two swimming pools, a restaurant and a bar.
Green fees: Weekends: 18 Hole – € 88.00
Weekdays: 18 Hole – € 80.00
Maximum Handicaps Allowed:
Men 28, Women 36 Soft Spikes
Lessons:
25 minutes (1 Pax) – € 29.00,
25 minutes (2 Pax) – € 34.00,
50 minutes (3 Pax) – € 75.00
Quinta da Beloura
Situated on a flat plane of land between the Sintra mountain range and Cascais and offering attractive views to sea and land, Quinta da Beloura is dotted with attractive (but challenging) lakes and the eighteenth makes a lovely end to your round. Facilities at Quinta da Beloura include a driving range, putting green, pro shop and golf academy as well as a restaurant and bar for relaxing after your round.
Green fees: Weekends: 18 Hole – € 72.50
Weekdays: 18 Hole – € 55.00
Maximum Handicaps Allowed:
Men 28, Women 36 Soft Spikes
Lessons:
25 minutes (1 Pax) – € 25.00,
50 minutes (1 Pax) – € 49.00, 9 holes on course (1 Pax) € 54.00 plus green fee
Golf Academy Estoril
The Golf Academy Estoril is a good choice for beginners with several par-3 holes making it more accessible than some of the more challenging options in the area and perfect for improving confidence and technique. The Golf Academy Estoril is situated at the base of the Sintra mountains and offers delightful views of the characteristic local scenery. Facilities include a driving range, putting green, pro shop and golf academy plus a bar and restaurant on site.
Green fees: 9 Holes – € 26.00
Juniors: € 10.00
Maximum Handicaps Allowed:
No limit
Lessons:
Consult the academy for details of lessons to match your needs
Estoril Golfe Clube
Estoril Golfe Clube was established as long ago as 1929 as a nine-hole course before being enlarged in 1945 to its present 18. It is one of the most famous courses in the country and has hosted the Portuguese Open many times. The course has undergone some further remodelling, most notably when the nearby motorway was constructed, forcing a redesign of the 16th hole.
Despite being reborn as a relatively short par-3 this is now viewed by many players as one of the best holes to play in the country. Estoril Golfe Clube also offers a 9-hole option tailored to beginners, making it the perfect choice for mixed ability groups with different needs. Facilities include a driving range, putting green, golf academy, pro shop, restaurant, bar and swimming pool.
Green fees: Weekends: 18 Hole – € 71.00
Weekdays: 18 Hole – € 57.00
Maximum Handicaps Allowed:
Men 28, Women 36 Soft Spikes
Lessons:
30 minutes (1 Pax) – € 20.00
Here we have listed the courses that are closest geographically to Cascais, however there are many more in the region. Check on line or at the local tourist office on your arrival for a full listing of all the courses in the wider area. Whatever your requirements or level, Golf in Cascais is certain to please.
