The Algarve in Portugal has long been synonymous with golf – its verdant landscapes, year-round clement weather and world-class courses means it’s an easy win, especially in the winter months when other courses are inaccessible.

With excellent but affordable hospitality, great hotels and plenty to do for non-golfers, the region is also ideal for the whole family. 

But back to golf. The sport has seen an increase in popularity in younger players since 2020, thanks in part to both social media and technological advancements that make it easier to learn. It’s no longer seen as the realm of middle-aged executives, golf has become more fashionable, less stuffy and dare I say it…sexy. 

So the chance to experience one of the Algarve’s newest courses and clubs, designed by South African former No 1 Ernie Els, was a real treat. 

The Els Club, Vilamoura, located at the luxury coastal resort about 20 minutes from Faro, is his first venture in Europe and the region’s first private golf club. The 18-hole upgrade was built on the former Victoria course, where the Portugal Masters was hosted between 2007 and 2022, and is just stunning. Golf pro or not, you could not help but appreciate the landscaping, construction, scenery and the gorgeous club house and 261 Bar. 

Els, who won the US Open in 1994 and 1997, opened the course himself in June with a nine-hole exhibition with Scottish veteran Colin Montgomerie and 2001 Open Champion David Duval. Els won and as we followed the trio round the course, you could tell something special was happening. 

Els said: “I’ve been coming to Vilamoura for many years, I’ve spent many summers with my family here and we just love Portugal.

“Golf is in a pretty sweet spot at the moment and [creating this course] has been a really nice venture.”

He added: “We want the conditions to be absolutely perfect and for people to have a great experience and good food.”

A residential development called Springs – At the Els Club has also recently launched. The project features a collection of 78 villas and townhouses, all offering views over the golf course.

Meanwhile, if you want a bit of break from golf, the five-star Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas is a great shout. It’s a sprawling, modern property about ten minutes from the beach – and the Els Club – and has a huge pool, award-winning spa and various restaurants, from fine dining to more relaxed offerings. 

The rooms are spacious and well-equipped and all overlook the sparkling pool. What this hotel does particularly well is catering for both families and those after a more refined experience – or travelling solo, like I was. The main pool is buzzy and boisterous but the 7 Seven Spa, located opposite, is a serene, top-of-the-range haven including a VIP area for maximum privacy.

Cilantro is the hotel’s fanciest restaurant where Chef André Simões’ menu boasts “strong Italian flavours along with the essence of the Algarve” and the Rubi Bar is also a fabulous spot for a sophisticated cocktail.

Aside from the nearby Els Club, the hotel also has 12 golf courses on-site, a pro shop and a resident PGA professional on hand.

Hilton As Cascatas is what the brand’s premium properties do really well – efficient service, high-end food and every amenity you need – all wrapped up in friendly but elegant surroundings.

Vilamoura is a gem of a place. The beautiful, floral landscape, charming locals and proximity to the marina, five-star hotels and the spotless coast make it a real hole in one.

The Els Club, Vilamoura, has been built in partnership with English investment fund Arrow Global and management company DETAILS. 

All images courtesy of the property and destination