Bordering the 18,300 hectare Natural Park of Ria Formosa - which provides a habitat for many species of birds and has much interesting vegetation - Pinheiros Altos in Quinta da Lago was designed by Ronald Fream of the USA. Later the course was redeveloped by Peter McEvoy and Howard Swan.
This is a highly original and distinctive course, with two sets of nine holes that possess completely opposing characteristics. While the first nine holes are over rolling sandy underground with gentle pine trees, the shorter second half runs through hills dotted with lakes that present the main obstacles for the golfers on this course. The course extends to 6,236 metres and is a 72 par.
Since its inauguration in June 92, the course has gained a reputation as the favourite pre-season practice ground for several of today's top professional golfers. They are drawn to the large practice ground which includes three putting-greens, areas for bunker, chip shots and several greens. There are also comprehensive programmes of tuition for golfers of all levels.
With two distinctly differing nines, Pinheiros Altos provides a real golf algarve challenge. The first nine winds its way over and though pine clad rolling countryside. The second nine drops down to a valley bottom, where intrusive lakes provide a test of accuracy.
Of the four par 3's, it is hard to determine which offers the most challenge. Probably this distinction lies with the 159-meter fifth. An accurate tee shot is essential to carry a deep valley into an elevated green, which will throw anything off-line away from it's surface The island green of the 124-meter par -3 seventeenth provides an intimidating perspective, with water all around and with the wind liable to push your tee shot away from the target.
The stroke index 11 third hole - although not particularly long at 313 meters - is all uphill. Intrusive pines demand an accurate tee shot. The second shot is always from an uphill lie. Finding the right combination of club and flight path is tricky.
The twelfth, recently extended from a par 4 to a par 5, has all the ingredients of a great golf hole. The tee shot must be determined and accurate. A draw here would be ideal, for a lake on the left and bunkers extending down the right fervour such a shot. That's not to say the tall eucalyptus at the lakeside doesn't influence the drive. Thereafter this 435 meter hole continues to demand concentration since bunkers and lake also influence the second shot. The approach to a tricky green rewards the bold player. Hesitate here and you are certain to find one of the numerous hazards which lie in wait.
Quinta da Lago is renowned for its dream homes when considering buying property abroad particularly the algarve villas. Situated just a short distance from Faro airport (with algarve car hire available) Quinta da Lago is an ideal golf location .
