The Remarkable History of Golf in the Algarve

The history of golf in the Algarve true begining occurred in 1966, when architect Sir Henry Cotton opened the first traditional grass course, The Penina.Golf’s journey from Scotland to the sun-drenched fairways of the Algarve is a remarkable tale of cultural expansion, innovation, and timeless appeal. Though the game began with feather-stuffed balls and windswept dunes, it found fertile ground in Portugal during the early 20th century, capturing the hearts of players with its elegance and challenge.

The Algarve’s introduction to golf dates back to the 1920s, inspired by the sport’s growing popularity across the British Empire. The region’s first course, between Portimão and Praia da Rocha, was rudimentary—its greens made from sand and oil due to a lack of freshwater. However, the true transformation occurred in 1966, when legendary golfer and architect Sir Henry Cotton opened the first traditional grass course, The Penina, now called the Sir Henry Championship Course. Spanning 360 acres and featuring tree-lined fairways, lakes, and a five-star resort, the Penina set the standard for what Algarve golf would become.

Sir Henry’s vision ignited a golf revolution. Architects from around the world flocked to the region, drawn by its mild climate and stunning landscapes. The Algarve quickly became a top destination for golf tourism, especially in the cooler months. The Portuguese Open cemented the area’s reputation, attracting elite players and international attention.

Tee Times and the History of Golf in the Algarve

For over 30 years, Tee Times Golf Agency has played a pivotal role in this story. Based in Portugal, we have become synonymous with excellence in golf tourism, offering curated packages that combine world-class golf with the region’s rich culture, cuisine, and hospitality. From the iconic Penina to the finest courses across Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, and Monte Rei, Tee Times connects golf lovers with the best Portugal has to offer.

Whether you’re chasing birdies under blue skies or soaking in the rich history of golf in the Algarve, the region delivers a truly unforgettable experience. With Tee Times by your side for the best golf holidays, your next break is more than a trip—it’s part of a legacy.

La Cala Golf Hub: 63 Holes and a New Era of Play

La Cala Resort, one of the most celebrated golf destinations in southern Spain, is once again in the spotlight with a nomination for Spain’s Best Golf Hotel 2025. This recognition follows the resort’s latest addition, the innovative nine-hole par-3 Golf Hub, bringing La Cala’s total to an impressive 63 holes, making it the largest golf facility in Spain and one of the most complete in Europe. The resort’s continuous evolution reflects the growing demand from international golf travellers for venues that combine quantity with quality, offering a broad mix of layouts that cater to both casual players and seasoned enthusiasts.

Nestled in the rolling hills of Mijas, near the sun-soaked Costa del Sol coastline, La Cala has long been a favourite among UK golfers seeking year-round playability and Mediterranean hospitality. With three championship courses, America, Asia, and Europa, as well as the newly upgraded short-game facility, the resort offers unmatched variety for golf holidays in Spain. The latest nomination comes as no surprise to those familiar with La Cala’s reputation for continuous improvement and guest satisfaction.

Expanding Excellence: The Golf Hub

The nine-hole par-3 Golf Hub is a smart addition for players looking to sharpen their short game or enjoy a quicker, more casual round. Designed with beginners and families in mind, it also serves as a versatile practice space for more experienced golfers. Its strategic location beside the main clubhouse means guests can easily transition from full rounds to focused practice sessions in a single day.

La Cala’s golf academy has also expanded its lesson offerings, using the Golf Hub as a dynamic learning environment. Combined with the existing driving range and putting greens, the facility now supports one of Spain’s most comprehensive golf tuition programmes.

Why La Cala Remains a Favourite for Spain Golf Holidays

For holidaymakers, La Cala is the complete package. Its three full-length courses, top-tier academy, and exceptional resort amenities, including a luxury spa, fine dining, and panoramic views, make it a destination where you can play, relax, and indulge without ever leaving the property. The Costa del Sol’s mild winters and hot summers mean it’s a year-round draw for UK travellers chasing sunshine and unforgettable fairways.

Oeiras Municipal Golf Cabanas

Oeiras introduces Portugal’s first municipal golf course in the Cabanas Golf area, just 20 km from Lisbon. Approved by the city council this month, the project reactivates the previously closed course on two newly acquired lots, spanning 43 hectares. The objective is not just to reopen but to transform it into a public facility supporting community golfing, education, and recreation.

Until now, Portugal’s golf landscape has been dominated by private resorts and exclusive member clubs, especially across the Algarve and Lisbon regions. With this project, Oeiras breaks new ground by offering a municipal option designed to promote accessibility without compromising on course quality. For travelling golfers, this opens the door to a more affordable and relaxed golfing experience near the capital, ideal for those who want to mix urban exploration with a few rounds on the green. The new facility is expected to attract not only local players and students but also international visitors looking for something beyond the typical resort circuit.

Construction is expected to be completed by late August 2025, with the facility branded the Municipal Golf Academy in Barcarena. It will serve schools, universities, local clubs, and the wider community. This marks a significant shift for golf travellers seeking holiday options, offering easily accessible, public-course play just a short drive from Lisbon.

A Boost for Accessible Golf Holidays

This new municipal setup brings true convenience for golf travellers:

Close to Lisbon but outside crowded resort zones, it’s perfect for holidaymakers wanting easy access, yet a quieter experience. Golfers can pair a few rounds at Cabanas with stays in Lisbon or nearby coastal resorts for a balanced mix of city and leisure. The public nature of the course promises affordable green fees, a welcome change from private resort costs.

Community and Sustainable Focus

The agreement calls for the land to remain municipally owned, though managed by a dedicated operator. This hybrid model ensures robust investment, professional oversight, and accountability. The facility is also set to include green spaces and leisure areas accessible to everyone, not just golfers.

By embedding the course in local programming, schools, university partnerships, club use, Oeiras is positioning golf as a communal sport, not a luxury activity.

What This Means for Portugal Golf Holidays

For travellers based in Lisbon or those planning coastal escapes, this addition raises the bar for holiday planning:

Stay in a Lisbon villa, play a municipal course nearby, then head south to the Algarve for a full holiday experience. The course’s reopening in August coincides with late-summer travel, offering a fresh attraction for travellers seeking variety. Combining public-course rounds with nearby resort stays offers a layered experience without the usual peak-season pricing.