Discovering Cascais: A Golfer’s Paradise Just West of Lisbon
Golf enthusiasts seeking a serene escape from the bustling streets of Lisbon will find their haven in Cascais, a picturesque seaside town located just 30 minutes to the west of Portugal’s vibrant capital. Known for its stunning coastline and delectable seafood restaurants, Cascais is home to an impressive array of golf resorts that seamlessly blend luxury with natural beauty.
For nearly six decades, Portugal has been a favored destination for British golfers. While many flock to the sun-soaked Algarve region—famous for its cliffside courses overlooking North Africa—Cascais is rapidly emerging as an equally enticing alternative. This charming coastal area boasts not only exceptional golf courses but also five-star accommodations that cater to discerning travelers.
The Allure of Cascais
Cascais offers a unique opportunity for golfers who wish to experience authentic Portuguese culture while enjoying world-class golfing facilities. Unlike the more tourist-heavy areas south of Lisbon, this coastal gem provides a tranquil atmosphere complemented by breathtaking views and refreshing Atlantic breezes.
Once a quaint fishing village, Cascais has transformed into a sophisticated resort town thanks in part to royal patronage and significant investment over the years. Today, it features luxurious hotels, upscale marinas, and several top-notch golf courses that attract both local and international visitors alike.
A Golfer’s Dream: The Cascais Golf Passport
One standout feature for golfers visiting this region is the Cascais Golf Passport, an innovative initiative launched by seven local clubs aimed at enhancing accessibility while providing excellent value. This digital platform allows players to book tee times across multiple courses with ease while enjoying substantial savings on green fees.
For instance, during low season (November-February and July-August), you can play five rounds for just €320; during high season (March-June and September-October), it’s only €370—a remarkable deal compared to standard rates at individual clubs. Participating courses include renowned names like Quinta da Marinha, Oitavos Dunes, Penha Longa Resort, Estoril Golf Club, Pestana Golf Resort, and Lisbon Sports Club.
Luxurious Accommodations: Onyria Quinta da Marinha
During my recent visit to this golfer’s paradise in Cascais, I stayed at Onyria Quinta da Marinha, an exquisite five-star hotel overlooking its namesake 18-hole championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. This luxurious property has long been favored among golfing aficionados due to its prime location near both stunning landscapes and top-tier amenities.
Refurbished in 2020 with modern touches throughout its spacious rooms—including private balconies—the hotel features indoor/outdoor swimming pools as well as three outstanding dining options catering specifically to guests’ needs after long days on the course. Notably impressive was their breakfast buffet which included delightful surprises like an automatic pancake-making machine!
Exploring Quinta da Marinha Course
The centerpiece of my stay was undoubtedly playing at Quinta da Marinha itself—a course rich in history since opening back in 1984 when it hosted numerous professional tournaments including events from senior tours as well as LET competitions over time!
This beautifully designed layout offers generous fairways paired with receptive greens interspersed among water hazards—all set against stunning ocean vistas that make every round memorable regardless if you’re aiming low scores or simply soaking up nature’s beauty around you!
In 2016 renovations re-routed some holes ensuring spectacular views are maximized throughout your round; clever bunkering adds strategic challenges while raised greens keep players engaged until they reach each hole’s conclusion!
Each hole carries unique names reflecting their character—from “Gone With The Wind” aptly describing breezy conditions often encountered here—to “Atlantic Ocean,” showcasing one particularly scenic par-five where breathtaking views abound!
The par-three holes are especially noteworthy; one such example being number ten dubbed “Good Luck”—a challenging test featuring water hazards flanking either side leading up towards tight greenside bunkers framing your approach shot perfectly!
As you navigate through these eighteen challenges culminating on number eighteen—a thrilling par-five where lakes come into play—it becomes clear why so many choose this destination year after year!
Conclusion: Your Next Golfing Adventure Awaits
With its combination of beautiful scenery coupled alongside exceptional golfing experiences available via initiatives like Cascais Golf Passport, there truly isn’t any better time than now explore what lies beyond traditional hotspots within Portugal! Whether you’re looking forward relaxing beach days post-rounds or indulging culinary delights offered nearby restaurants—this charming seaside town promises unforgettable memories waiting just around every corner! So pack those clubs & head westward next time planning your Iberian getaway—you won’t regret discovering all that awaits within enchanting Cascáis!# Discovering the Best Golf Courses in Portugal: A Journey Through Quinta Da Marinha, Oitavos Dunes, Penha Longa, and Belas
Quinta Da Marinha Resort: A Golfer’s Paradise
Nestled along the stunning Estoril Coast, Quinta Da Marinha Resort offers an exceptional golfing experience. The highlight of this course is undoubtedly its 18th hole—a challenging par five that features two picturesque lakes. This final challenge not only tests your skills but also provides a breathtaking view that encapsulates the beauty of this resort.
Oitavos Dunes: A Unique Hybrid Experience
Our next stop was just a short drive away to Oitavos Dunes, an extraordinary golf course that seamlessly blends links and woodland styles. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sintra Mountains and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this course offers golfers an unforgettable experience.
The layout begins with six tree-lined holes before transitioning into ten open dune holes. It then returns to wooded terrain for the final two holes—an innovative design that works surprisingly well in practice. True to classic links philosophy, Oitavos Dunes features an out-and-back design where players must navigate varying winds throughout their round.
Precision is key on this course; errant shots can lead to difficult recovery situations from thick rough or sandy areas. While it measures just under 6,400 yards from tee to green, don’t let its length fool you—the challenges presented by its layout require strategic thinking and skillful execution.
As we moved onto the back nine, standout holes included 14 (a par three requiring careful navigation over a ravine), as well as solid finishing tests at 17 and 18—both measuring over 450 yards with tricky greens that demand accuracy.
Walking through Oitavos Dunes is feasible due to its relatively flat terrain; however many opt for buggies for added comfort. Regardless of how you choose to play it, enjoying your round here will surely be complemented by excellent food options available at The Oitavos clubhouse or within their luxurious hotel facilities.
Penha Longa: Championship Golf Amidst Natural Beauty
Next on our itinerary was Penha Longa, known as “Long Rock,” which boasts three distinct courses set against breathtaking landscapes filled with rolling hills and coastal views stretching towards Estoril and Cascais. This venue also houses a luxurious Ritz-Carlton resort offering top-notch amenities for guests seeking relaxation after their rounds.
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Penha Longa’s Atlantic North Course demands bold drives coupled with precise approaches while navigating fast greens—a thrilling combination sure to excite any golfer looking for both challenge and beauty during their game.
With half of its holes framed by trees alongside several lakes adding complexity throughout playtime; straight hitting becomes essential if one hopes for birdie opportunities on this undulating yet manageable layout—not overly long compared with modern standards but still rewarding skilled players who can master each shot effectively!
For those seeking less intensity without sacrificing enjoyment levels—the Atlantic South Course presents itself as another entertaining option winding through historical parts surrounding estate grounds while providing ample chances at scoring well too!
A culinary highlight during our visit was dining at LAB by Sergio Arola—a Michelin-starred restaurant located within Penha Longa’s premises! Our six-course tasting menu featured Mediterranean-inspired dishes bursting with flavor—from delicate red prawn salad paired perfectly alongside creamy jamon croquettes—to succulent sirloin steak served beautifully plated—all culminating in delightful chocolate ganache designed like golf balls!
Belas: Scenic Challenges Await
Finally concluding our golfing adventure was Belas, situated amidst Carregueira Mountains just outside Cascais—this Rocky Roquemore-designed championship test spans approximately 6,700 yards offering stunning vistas across valleys below!
Featuring gently mounded fairways nestled deep within valleys combined large scalloped bunkers plus numerous streams/lakes demanding attention—it promises variety across all types including attractive selections among par threes showcasing drop-hole designs too!
As we navigated through these scenic challenges—including memorable closing stretches highlighted by downhill par-five fifteenth followed closely behind water-laden hazards guarding greens—we couldn’t help but appreciate every moment spent here surrounded nature’s splendor while honing skills along way!
In conclusion—Portugal stands out not only because it boasts some incredible golf courses like those found within Quinta da Marinha Resort,OItavusDune,PenaLonga&Belas—but also due hospitality offered throughout entire journey making each visit truly unforgettable experience worth cherishing forevermore!### Discover the Thrills of Cascais Golf and Beyond
Cascais, a picturesque coastal town in Portugal, is not only renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture but also for its exceptional golf courses. Among these, the par-four 18th hole stands out as a true test of skill and nerve. This challenging hole requires players to navigate their approach shot over a U-shaped lake, adding an exhilarating twist to your round. The combination of breathtaking scenery and thrilling gameplay makes Cascais a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts.
Explore Cascais: A Seaside Gem
Beyond golfing, Cascais offers an array of activities that cater to all interests. This charming seaside town is incredibly walkable, inviting visitors to meander through its narrow streets lined with quaint cafés and shops. Take some time to indulge in strong Portuguese coffee paired with delectable Pastéis de Nata—a local custard tart that’s simply irresistible (one will never be enough!). Alternatively, unwind at one of the many bars or restaurants overlooking the marina while sipping on a refreshing glass of white wine.
For history buffs, a visit to the Palácio da Cidadela de Cascais is essential. Commissioned by King Dom Luís I as a summer palace in 1870, this captivating museum serves as both an architectural marvel and an official residence for visiting heads of state in Portugal. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into its rich history.
If you prefer exploring on two wheels rather than on foot, consider taking advantage of BiCas, which offers free bike rentals from 76 stations between Parede and Estoril. With over 1,200 bikes available for hire, you can easily cycle along the scenic path stretching nine kilometers from Cascais to Guincho Beach.
For those seeking natural beauty combined with adventure, make sure to stop by Boca do Inferno, located just two kilometers west of downtown Cascais. Here you can witness powerful Atlantic waves crashing against rugged cliffs—a sight that truly embodies nature’s raw power.
Culinary Delights Await
No visit to Cascais would be complete without savoring its culinary offerings—especially seafood! One standout dining option is Mar do Inferno, a family-run restaurant celebrated for its fresh seafood dishes ranging from hake fillets served alongside cockle rice to succulent monkfish preparations. For those who can’t decide what to order? The seafood platter comes highly recommended; it features grilled sea bass paired with gilthead sea bream along with prawns,mussels,potatoes,cooked carrots,and broccoli—all drizzled generously in high-quality olive oil.
Plan Your Visit
To discover more about things happening around town—from local events showcasing culture or art exhibitions—to booking your experience through the Cascais Golf Passport, head over to www.visitcascais.com.
Getting There
Traveling from the UK? TAP Air Portugal provides numerous long-haul routes connecting travelers across three continents—including flights from Heathrow,Gatwick,and Manchester—with flight times averaging around two hours forty-five minutes.
For additional information or ticket purchases via TAP Air Portugal visit flytap.com.
Cascáis presents itself not only as an idyllic golfing destination but also as vibrant hub brimming with cultural experiences,natural wonders,and culinary delights waiting just beyond each corner.Whether you’re teeing off at world-class courses or enjoying leisurely strolls through charming streets,Cascade promises unforgettable memories at every turn!