Best way to start the day is with a round of sea side golf. Clear the head while counting some 15.000 steps at the same time. Especially in these Covid-19 times, with wearing a mask almost all day, fresh air is a bare necessity.
Our 4 day golf destination is located just an hour North of Lisboa. The Marriott Praia d'el Rey golf & beach resort has two great golf courses, both Praia d'el Rey and Westcliffs are challenging and even more so when the weather (I mean wind) is in play...
The resort area is quite large, almost a village, and located between Atlantic Ocean seaside, dunes eucalyptus woods.

Staying at Praia d'el Rey

At this extended resort one can choose between three types of accommodation. Either the 5* Marriott Hotel, rent one of the Villas or stay in one of the beach front apartments. We stayed at the hotel, in a beachfront king suite. Sunset right in front of our balcony!
The breakfast is extended, lots of fresh fruit, normally a large buffet but due to the Covid-19 rules the masked staff is happy to serve you.

Of course the hotel has the Safe & Clean stamp. This prove of commitment complies with Covid-19 health safety recommendations issued by the National Tourism Authority according to National Health Authority guidelines.

Praia d'el Rey golf course

This mature course (over 20 years old) has both parkland - first 9 - and links hole. The second half is all about stunning seaside holes with matching views. You feel the connection with nature, even more when you hit out of bounce along the sea. Stay on the fairway! Undulating is king here and the greens are quite fast (wind!). This is the perfect course to walk with a (electric) trolley and really connect with the fairways. A classic Portuguese golf gem.

Westcliffs course

First of all, forget about walking this course (made that mistake once) and opt for a buggy. The holes are spectacular, long and also quite some distances between holes ánd between first and second nine. You need all your energy and concentration to conquer (yes, that's the word) this 18 holes links style course. You've been warned. Boy, what a challenge!

Check Praia D'el Rey or Golf and Country Travel for more info on packages.