Golf

Vale do Lobo Ocean Course. This challenging course emerged from an earlier design by Sir Henry Cotton and is a combination of the original "orange" and "green" courses of three 9-hole loops. The undulating fairways are fringed by pine, olive, orange, and eucalyptus trees. Accuracy is the key factor, and the correct club selection is always worth a few shots. A handicap certificate is required. There's a driving range, a putting green, golf carts, pull carts, and a pro shop, restaurant, and bar. Av. do Mar, Vale do Lobo, Faro, 8135-864. 289 353 465; valedolobo.com/en/golf. €91.

Vale do Lobo Royal Course. A more demanding course than the Ocean, the Royal is longer and defended by more water and bunkers. Sir Henry Cotton laid out the original course, but significant changes have been introduced by Rocky Roquemore to make it more up-to-date. The pick of the holes is the famous 16th, which requires a carry of 200 yards over three spectacular cliffs to reach the sanctuary green. A handicap limit of 27 for men and 35 for women is enforced here. Av. do Mar, Vale do Lobo, Faro, 8135-864. 289 353 535; valedolobo.com/en/golf. €91. Reservations essential.