Quinta do Lago South Golf Course Review
GolfMagic tests out the stunning Quinta do Lago South Course in Portugal.
Let's be honest, at 41, I've reached that stage where I appreciate the finer things in life.
Forget the crammed muni courses and questionable clubhouse sandwiches. We want a golfing experience that matches our refined tastes and, let's face it, our slowly elevating handicap (those weekend rounds with the kids aren't doing my short game any favors).
So, does Quinta do Lago South deliver?
In a word, yes.
Scroll down for our full review...
From Arrival to 19th Hole:
Pulling up to the clubhouse, you know you're somewhere special.
This isn't some tired old building with faded carpets and questionable décor. Quinta do Lago South boasts a sleek, modern clubhouse with that understated luxury vibe we appreciate.
The pro shop is stocked with top-of-the-line gear (tempting, very tempting...), and the staff are friendly and efficient.
There's no waiting around for ages while the teenager behind the counter figures out the booking system.
The Course - A True Test of Golf:
This isn't a course for the faint of heart. It demands accuracy, strategy, and a well-honed short game.
But that's exactly what we're looking for, isn't it? A challenge that rewards thoughtful play and punishes those errant shots (we all have them).
- Strategic Design: Every hole is meticulously crafted, with strategically placed bunkers, water hazards, and doglegs that force you to think about your shot. No mindless grip-it-and-rip-it here.
- Variety: The course offers a fantastic mix of holes, from demanding par 4s to picturesque par 3s. You'll use every club in your bag, and you'll need to adapt your game to the different challenges each hole presents.
- Signature Holes: The 15th is a showstopper. A par 3 over water to an island green, it's the kind of hole you'll be recounting to your buddies over a post-round beer (or something a little stronger). But don't overlook the other gems, like the challenging 18th, which demands a precise approach shot to a well-guarded green.
Conditions & Amenities:
- Immaculate: The course is in pristine condition. The fairways are lush, the greens are fast and true, and the bunkers are perfectly maintained. It's clear that the groundskeepers take pride in their work.
- Caddies: If you want to elevate your experience (and maybe shave a few strokes off your score), consider hiring a caddie. They'll provide valuable insights into the course, read the greens, and offer helpful advice.
- Buggies: Equipped with GPS, the buggies are a welcome addition, especially on those warmer days. Plus, they come with coolers, so you can keep your beverages chilled throughout your round.
Beyond the Round:
- Practice Facilities: The driving range and practice greens are excellent, allowing you to warm up properly before your round or work on your game afterwards.
- Dining: The clubhouse restaurant offers delicious food with stunning views of the course. It's the perfect spot to relax and reflect on your round (or commiserate with your playing partners).
Final Thoughts:
Quinta do Lago South is a course that will challenge and inspire you. It's a true golfer's paradise, offering a premium experience that's worth every penny (even if it does mean skipping a few lattes in the weeks leading up to your round). This is a course you'll want to play again and again.
Pro Tip:
Book a tee time for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed pace of play. And don't forget to pack a camera – the views are truly breathtaking.
For more information about Quinta do Lago South, please visit their website here.