Quinta do Lago South is a championship standard course designed in 1974 by American architect William Mitchell, who first helped the Algarve to carve out American style golf courses. Referred to as the “crown jewel” of Quinta do Lago, it has hosted eight Portuguese Open competitions and drummed up a prestigious reputation. The course, offering views of Ria Formosa National Park, was the location of Colin Montgomerie’s record-breaking 1989 Portuguese Open victory.
The front nine favours a draw shot from the tee, but the back nine requires more fade from the tee. This, combined with plentiful pines and strategically-placed bunkers means that any golfer has to stay very alert when playing the south course at Quinta do Lago.
Holes 3, 15 and 17 feature water hazards in the form of lakes, which is typical for the region. There are low scores to be made if the player can identify the route intended by the designer, and have the skill to pull off the required shots. Lower-level golfers can take some pleasure from this course, but Quinta do Lago is a championship quality course which is known the world over. This makes it more of an ideal challenge for advanced golfers.
The courses are owned by the same company that owns the nearby Magnolia Hotel and guests staying at the Magnolia are offered discounted green fees.
