A masterpiece by Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Considered one of the Algarve’s golfing gems, the Palmares Ocean Living & Golf course captivates visitors as much for its technical sophistication as for its integration into a preserved natural environment. Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., it offers a unique experience where each hole tells a story of sea, dunes, and hills.
The resort is distinguished by its 27 holes spread across three loops of nine: Alvor, Lagos, and Praia. This configuration allows players to vary their combinations and discover contrasting landscapes. Alvor offers a hilly parkland layout that demands precision. Lagos, a coastal links course, exposes the player to the wind and tests strategy. Praia, spectacular, opens onto plunging views towards the ocean. Among the signature holes, the par 5 of hole 5 (Praia), descending towards the sea, is often cited as one of the most beautiful in the region. The par 3 of hole 8 (Alvor), perched above Lagos Bay, illustrates the course’s ability to combine sporting challenge and visual excitement.
Located just minutes from Lagos and less than an hour from Faro Airport, Palmares is ideally accessible for international visitors. But the site is not limited to golf: it is part of a high-end residential project, with villas and apartments integrated into the landscape. The clubhouse, designed by Catalan architects RCR, winners of the Pritzker Prize and awarded the title of “Best Clubhouse in Europe” at the 2024 World Golf Awards, offers panoramic views of the Alvor estuary and houses the Michelin-starred Al Sud restaurant. All of this contributes to making Palmares a complete living and leisure destination, where sport, gastronomy, and the art of living come together.
Landscaping and sustainability
One of the project’s strengths lies in its respect for the environment. Maintenance favors local species, reducing water consumption, while the rough areas are left more natural to promote biodiversity. The layout follows the existing terrain: the fairways follow the hills, the greens blend into the dunes, and the ocean views are preserved. This sustainable approach, combined with spectacular aesthetics, positions Palmares as a model of modern golf, reconciling sporting excellence and ecological responsibility.
With its varied course, prestigious facilities, and environmental commitment, Palmares Ocean Living & Golf has established itself as a benchmark in the Algarve. More than just a playing field, it embodies a contemporary vision of golf: a sport in constant dialogue with nature and the environment.
Michelin-starred gastronomy and five-star hospitality
At the heart of the resort, AL SUD restaurant, awarded a Michelin star for the fifth consecutive year, offers a menu inspired by the history and flavors of the Algarve. Chef Luis Anjos combines seafood and local ingredients in a panoramic setting overlooking Lagos Bay.
To extend the experience, visitors can stay at the Palmares Beach House Hotel, a five-star boutique hotel with 20 rooms, or in the one- to three-bedroom Signature Apartments, which combine modern comfort with breathtaking views of the Atlantic.
Olazabal & friends charity Pro-Am
From November 21st to 23rd, Palmares will host the fourth edition of the Olazabal & Friends Charity Pro-Am. This charity tournament, organized by José María Olazábal, two-time Masters winner and former European Ryder Cup captain, will bring together pros and amateurs in a friendly and engaging atmosphere. Among the headliners, the charismatic Miguel Ángel Jiménez has already confirmed his participation.
The teams, comprised of one professional and three amateurs, will compete in two competitive rounds preceded by a day of training. The Praia, Alvor, and Lagos courses will be featured throughout the weekend, punctuated by exclusive evening events, including a Michelin-starred dinner at AL SUD and a party on November 22. All proceeds will be donated to Sport Mundi, a charity dedicated to children in need.
TP-AL Swing-Feminine
Practical information – Palmares Ocean Living & Golf
Location and Accessibility
Algarve, Portugal – 5 km from Lagos and 75 km from Faro International Airport (≈ 50 minutes by car).
Address: Palmares Ocean Living & Golf, Odiaxere, 8600-250 Lagos.
Car: direct access via the A22 (Lagos Est / Odiáxere exit).
Transport: taxis and private transfers from Faro.
Free parking on site.
Accommodation contact & reservation
Palmares Beach House Hotel *****
Signature Apartments
Telephone: +351 282 249 880
For more information : palmaresliving.com
To read the latest article, click here