The terrain of Quinta do Lago north, formerly Ria Formosa, has the Algarve’s sandy soil, covered by pine trees, heather, and wild flowers is identical to the south course. It offers however, very different challenges. This course favours the long hitters, but it requires the skill to score well. Although the front and back nines are both anti-clockwise loops, the first nine favours a draw, while the second favours a fade from the tee.
The course over 6,488 metres and a par 72 has four magnificent Par 5 holes. The Par 4 are generally doglegs, with the exception of holes 10 and 13. The Par 3 holes are influenced by the wind requiring very precise shots. In holes 13 and 18 lakes make a good score quite difficult. The course was designed by several architects. William Mitchell was responsible for holes 1 to 5 and 15 to 18, while Joseph Lee and Rocky Roquemore designed the course from hole 6 to 14. The fairways and tees are mainly covered with ‘Bermuda 419’ mixed to cold season grass, kept in good condition throughout the year. The greens, however are covered with Penn Gross Bent Grass, creating quick conditions and a regular surface.
The first tee isn't too difficult, there is some leeway from the generous fairway and the approach to the large green of this par 4 has no intrusive hazards, a couple of bunkers or so. Along par 5 follows. The third is a par 4 of 387 meters and flows over a rise in the fairway, frustratingly masking the finger of water coming in on the left in front of the green. If your second shot is in any way wanting, you will have a pretty good idea where the ball will be! A firm, confident approach to the elevated green is needed. The hugely elevated tee at the par 4 ninth somehow encourages a forced drive, which will find trouble on the left and right. This hole dog-legs left and a longish, straight drive is rewarded with sight of the green. The fairway dips away off the tee, then climbs again, so the approach is invariably an uphill lie. Your best shot is to the right side of the green. Probably the most memorable hole here is the 200 meter par 3 fifteenth, with a large lake which you have to carry. The green is set in a semicircle of umbrella pines and you get to it across a distinctive wooden bridge.
Quinta do Lago is your dream home golf algarve destination. With the luxury villas surrounding the course it brings a new meaning to the phrase of a dream home on the range.
.jpg)
.jpg)
