San Lorenzo Golf Course
Almancil
Overview
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Portugal's Algarve region, the San Lorenzo Golf Course is a jewel in the crown of European golf. Located within the exclusive Quinta do Lago estate, just a short drive from Faro International Airport, this world-renowned course offers a unique blend of natural beauty, challenging play, and top-tier amenities. Since its opening in 1988, San Lorenzo has been consistently ranked as one of Portugal's finest golf courses, drawing golfers from around the world to its scenic fairways and greens.
Designed by the legendary American architect Joseph Lee and nestled along the edge of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, San Lorenzo’s layout takes full advantage of its stunning location. With its combination of pristine parkland, coastal lagoons, and ocean views, it is not just a course, but a visual feast that makes every round an unforgettable experience.
San Lorenzo Golf Course spans 6,825 yards (6,242 meters) and is a par-72 course that presents a variety of challenges for golfers of all levels. Its layout winds through rolling pine forests, scenic wetlands, and stretches of coastline, offering a diverse range of holes that require a balance of power, accuracy, and finesse. Each hole is carefully crafted to incorporate the natural features of the landscape, making every shot as much a strategic decision as it is a pleasure to play.
The course’s reputation as one of the Algarve's most beautiful is well-earned. The first few holes lead players through pine trees and undulating terrain, while the course later opens up to reveal spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa, a protected area known for its diverse birdlife and pristine wetlands. The proximity to the coast also means that coastal winds often come into play, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the experience.
While each of San Lorenzo’s holes is uniquely memorable, a few stand out as true gems of the course:
Hole 5 (Par 3): One of the most iconic holes on the course, the 5th features a stunning downhill tee shot over a lake to a small, well-guarded green. The view from the elevated tee box is breathtaking, with the water hazard dominating the foreground and the Atlantic Ocean visible in the distance. Precision is key here, as any misjudged shot risks finding the water.
Hole 6 (Par 5): A challenging dogleg left, the 6th hole requires a long and accurate tee shot to set up for the second shot around the corner of the lake. As you approach the green, players are treated to magnificent views of the Ria Formosa, making this one of the most scenic holes on the course. The risk-reward factor here is high, especially for those brave enough to go for the green in two.
Hole 18 (Par 4): The closing hole at San Lorenzo is a true test of nerves and skill. Playing alongside the Ria Formosa, this dogleg right features water hazards that come into play on both the tee shot and the approach to the green. The elevated green, surrounded by bunkers and water, demands precision and focus, ensuring a dramatic finish to any round.
One of the hallmarks of San Lorenzo is its consistently excellent course conditions. The fairways and greens are meticulously maintained, ensuring that the playing surface is always at its best. The Bermuda grass fairways provide a smooth surface for tee shots and approach shots, while the greens, known for their speed and true roll, offer a challenge to even the best putters.
San Lorenzo also offers top-notch practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, and short game area, allowing golfers to warm up and fine-tune their game before hitting the course. For those looking to improve their skills, the course provides access to professional instruction and lessons.
After a round at San Lorenzo, golfers can retreat to the course’s charming clubhouse, which offers a welcoming atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The clubhouse features a well-appointed restaurant and bar, serving a variety of Portuguese and international dishes, perfect for a post-round meal or a celebratory drink.
With its large terrace overlooking the course, the clubhouse is also an ideal spot to relax and take in the beauty of the Algarve while reflecting on the day’s play. The service is warm and attentive, ensuring that every visitor feels right at home.
San Lorenzo is part of the prestigious Quinta do Lago resort, one of Europe’s most exclusive golf and lifestyle destinations. In addition to San Lorenzo, the resort is home to several other world-class courses, including Quinta do Lago North and Quinta do Lago South, giving golfers a range of options to explore during their stay.
Quinta do Lago is not only known for its golf but also for its luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a variety of leisure activities. Visitors can enjoy the pristine beaches of the Algarve, indulge in spa treatments, or take part in water sports, making it the perfect destination for golfers and their families alike.
San Lorenzo has long been regarded as one of the best courses in Europe and is consistently ranked among the top 100 courses in the world. Its challenging yet enjoyable layout, combined with the natural beauty of the Algarve, has made it a favorite among professionals and amateurs alike. The course has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, further cementing its reputation as one of Portugal's finest golfing destinations.
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Designed by the legendary American architect Joseph Lee and nestled along the edge of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, San Lorenzo’s layout takes full advantage of its stunning location. With its combination of pristine parkland, coastal lagoons, and ocean views, it is not just a course, but a visual feast that makes every round an unforgettable experience.
San Lorenzo Golf Course spans 6,825 yards (6,242 meters) and is a par-72 course that presents a variety of challenges for golfers of all levels. Its layout winds through rolling pine forests, scenic wetlands, and stretches of coastline, offering a diverse range of holes that require a balance of power, accuracy, and finesse. Each hole is carefully crafted to incorporate the natural features of the landscape, making every shot as much a strategic decision as it is a pleasure to play.
The course’s reputation as one of the Algarve's most beautiful is well-earned. The first few holes lead players through pine trees and undulating terrain, while the course later opens up to reveal spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa, a protected area known for its diverse birdlife and pristine wetlands. The proximity to the coast also means that coastal winds often come into play, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the experience.
While each of San Lorenzo’s holes is uniquely memorable, a few stand out as true gems of the course:
Hole 5 (Par 3): One of the most iconic holes on the course, the 5th features a stunning downhill tee shot over a lake to a small, well-guarded green. The view from the elevated tee box is breathtaking, with the water hazard dominating the foreground and the Atlantic Ocean visible in the distance. Precision is key here, as any misjudged shot risks finding the water.
Hole 6 (Par 5): A challenging dogleg left, the 6th hole requires a long and accurate tee shot to set up for the second shot around the corner of the lake. As you approach the green, players are treated to magnificent views of the Ria Formosa, making this one of the most scenic holes on the course. The risk-reward factor here is high, especially for those brave enough to go for the green in two.
Hole 18 (Par 4): The closing hole at San Lorenzo is a true test of nerves and skill. Playing alongside the Ria Formosa, this dogleg right features water hazards that come into play on both the tee shot and the approach to the green. The elevated green, surrounded by bunkers and water, demands precision and focus, ensuring a dramatic finish to any round.
One of the hallmarks of San Lorenzo is its consistently excellent course conditions. The fairways and greens are meticulously maintained, ensuring that the playing surface is always at its best. The Bermuda grass fairways provide a smooth surface for tee shots and approach shots, while the greens, known for their speed and true roll, offer a challenge to even the best putters.
San Lorenzo also offers top-notch practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, and short game area, allowing golfers to warm up and fine-tune their game before hitting the course. For those looking to improve their skills, the course provides access to professional instruction and lessons.
After a round at San Lorenzo, golfers can retreat to the course’s charming clubhouse, which offers a welcoming atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The clubhouse features a well-appointed restaurant and bar, serving a variety of Portuguese and international dishes, perfect for a post-round meal or a celebratory drink.
With its large terrace overlooking the course, the clubhouse is also an ideal spot to relax and take in the beauty of the Algarve while reflecting on the day’s play. The service is warm and attentive, ensuring that every visitor feels right at home.
San Lorenzo is part of the prestigious Quinta do Lago resort, one of Europe’s most exclusive golf and lifestyle destinations. In addition to San Lorenzo, the resort is home to several other world-class courses, including Quinta do Lago North and Quinta do Lago South, giving golfers a range of options to explore during their stay.
Quinta do Lago is not only known for its golf but also for its luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a variety of leisure activities. Visitors can enjoy the pristine beaches of the Algarve, indulge in spa treatments, or take part in water sports, making it the perfect destination for golfers and their families alike.
San Lorenzo has long been regarded as one of the best courses in Europe and is consistently ranked among the top 100 courses in the world. Its challenging yet enjoyable layout, combined with the natural beauty of the Algarve, has made it a favorite among professionals and amateurs alike. The course has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, further cementing its reputation as one of Portugal's finest golfing destinations.
