New Faro–New York Flights Set to Boost Algarve Golf Holidays

Faro–New York direct flights are officially on the horizon for 2025. In a move that promises to make Portugal’s southern coast more accessible than ever, United Airlines will launch a direct flight from New York/Newark to Faro starting May 16, 2025. The new transatlantic connection marks a major milestone for the Algarve, especially for American travellers looking to combine world-class golf with Mediterranean charm.

For golfers, this is more than a convenience; it’s a game-changer. The Algarve, already a favourite among European golfers, is now opening its fairways to a broader international audience. With quicker access from the U.S., it’s set to become an even more compelling option for luxury golf escapes, extended stays, and winter sun getaways.

 

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What This Means for Golf Travel

The new Faro–New York route is United Airlines’ first-ever direct connection to the Algarve and part of a wider expansion of U.S.–Portugal air traffic. With flights running four times a week through peak season, it eliminates the need for layovers in Lisbon or European hubs.

This opens the door for American golfers to access premium Algarve destinations like Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Vilamoura

Algarve’s Growing Global Profile

The Algarve isn’t just convenient, it’s award-winning. Regularly ranked among Europe’s best golf destinations, the region combines dramatic coastline, pristine layouts, and mild year-round weather with luxury resorts and authentic Portuguese hospitality.

From PGA-calibre championship courses to relaxing resort rounds, the Algarve offers the variety, quality, and setting that today’s golf travellers are looking for.

Ready to Book Your Algarve Escape?

With demand expected to rise sharply, especially from first-time U.S. travellers, early booking is strongly recommended. The new flight path makes 2025 the ideal year to explore the Algarve with fewer travel hurdles and more time to enjoy what matters.

Ponte de Lima Golfers Win Big at 2025 National Championships

Ponte de Lima took centre stage in Portuguese golf this past weekend as local players claimed 7 out of 15 national titles at the 2025 National Championships of 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Categories. Held on home turf at Clube de Golfe de Ponte de Lima, the event welcomed 73 amateur golfers from across the country and delivered a weekend of standout performances, many of them from the host region itself.

This strong showing from Ponte de Lima was not only a point of pride for the club, but also a testament to the growing talent pool emerging in northern Portugal. While many eyes in golf often focus south to Lisbon or the Algarve, this championship served as a reminder that the north has plenty to offer, in both player development and golfing pedigree.

The championships, organised by the Federação Portuguesa de Golfe, highlighted the growing strength of regional clubs and amateur golf in the north of Portugal. For Ponte de Lima, it was nothing short of a banner weekend.

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Local Talent on Full Display

Among the standout performances:

  • Madalena Araújo (Ponte de Lima GC) was crowned National Champion in the 3rd Category (handicap 12.1–19.0) and also took home the best Net score. She also finished as runner-up in the 2nd Category, earning additional honours for best Net result.
  • Paulo Vilas Boas (Ponte de Lima GC) dominated the 4th Category (handicap 19.1–27.0) with a wire-to-wire win and claimed the best Net trophy as well.
  • Rui Martins, also from Ponte de Lima, finished runner-up in the 2nd Category, just three shots behind the winner.

In total, Ponte de Lima golfers secured a commanding share of the championship podiums, a strong endorsement of the region’s golf development at the grassroots level.

A Boost for Northern Portugal Golf

While Lisbon and the Algarve often steal the spotlight, tournaments like these remind us that northern Portugal’s golf scene is thriving. Ponte de Lima’s facilities and community have nurtured players capable of succeeding at national level, and the 2025 results prove it.

Whether you’re looking to test your game or simply enjoy golf in scenic, less-discovered parts of Portugal, Ponte de Lima offers an authentic and competitive atmosphere.

Golf Ibiza Charity Event Raises €12,000 for Cancer Support

Spain’s golf holiday scene isn’t all pristine fairways and sunny tee times, sometimes, it’s about heart, too. That spirit was on full display this past weekend at the 4th annual Golf Contra el Cáncer tournament, held at Golf Ibiza. The event brought together locals, visitors, and golf lovers from across the Balearic Islands, raising an impressive €12,000 in support of the Ibiza y Formentera Contra el Cáncer (IFCC) association.

The event not only highlighted the strength of Ibiza’s golf community, but also reminded us that even in a destination better known for beach clubs than birdies, the sport is thriving, and doing good in the process.

Thinking of a Spanish golf getaway with a bit more soul? Consider making a stop at one of the Golf Courses in Ibiza part of your plans. It offers more than just a round, it offers connection, charm, and a chance to be part of something meaningful.

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A Community-Driven Success Story

Held in early May, the tournament drew 120 participants and dozens more supporters, sponsors, and volunteers. The format? Classic shotgun start, with team-based play that encouraged camaraderie, conversation, and just the right amount of competitive spirit.

All proceeds went to IFCC, a local non-profit dedicated to providing support for cancer patients and their families across Ibiza and Formentera. The money raised will fund essential services, including patient transport, home care, and psychological counselling.

Golf Ibiza: A Different Side of the Island

While Ibiza may not be the first place golfers think of, Golf Ibiza is quietly carving out a niche as one of Spain’s most scenic and understated courses. Surrounded by rolling hills and coastal breezes, the club features 27 holes across two distinct layouts and boasts a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you’re a scratch player or just out for holiday fun, the course delivers a tranquil escape from the island’s high-octane party reputation.

Why Events Like This Matter

Charity tournaments like Golf Contra el Cáncer serve a dual purpose: they bring people together for a good cause and put lesser-known golf destinations on the map. For travellers looking to mix leisure with local culture, these types of events offer an authentic, fulfilling twist on the traditional golf holiday.

They also highlight the depth and diversity of Spain’s golf offering. From world-class championship courses on the mainland to heartfelt community events on the islands, Spain delivers more than just great golf, it delivers experiences worth remembering.