Architect: Arnold Palmer

Here, Arnold Palmer and his team designed one of the most spectacular golf courses in Europe. There are 22 lakes with an overall area of 12 hectares, and along their banks aquatic plants harbour dozens of species of birds that thrive in this kind of habitat.

The putting-green is huge, measuring almost 2500 m² and is certainly one of the largest anyone in our party had ever seen. After warming up at the driving-range with an access route paved with red Tartan that contrasts with its verdant borders, we approached the first tee for our final round at Vilamoura.

The 10th hole is a superb par-4 with a green that seems to float above a lake. This is the start of the fantastic “Victoria corner”, a sequence of four holes skirting a large 600-metre long lake. You need to execute a variety of shots, especially those from the “beach bunkers”– a Palmer trademark– where the white sand stands out against the green grassy areas. Following these holes, the relatively short par-4 14th has a double fairway to choose from, but the green is simply breathtaking, as if suspended over water.

The 17th hole is a long par-5, over 500 metres in length, and in the right hand rough is a series of waterfalls, the beauty of which can easily divert your attention from playing.
The first hole, with a green framed by a number of olive trees, is typical of the difference between the two loops.

The clubhouse is another feature to be discovered. The façade is reminiscent of an aqueduct, behind which is a vast terrace. There is bar service even in the locker rooms where golfers can order drinks before or after playing. This is where we calculated the winnings and losses of our week’s golf in Vilamoura. Then we concluded our stay with a magnificent dinner in the restaurant, decorated in the style of an 18th century mansion, where the leather chair backs are artistically engraved with the letter ‘V’ for Victoria. golf course builder, was awarded the construction contract.

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