Any time is tee-time in Portimao. A fine selection of golf courses await in this idyllic part of the Algarve, with fairways and greens to suit all types of player. For the experienced a trip down to the Penina Championship Golf Course is a must. This is one of the oldest courses in the Algarve, and is the work of master designer, Sir Henry Cotton. It has everything that you’ll ever want from a Course, and offers some fine views from the fairways too.
A short drive from Penina is the Morgado Golf Course. This is an 18-hole course with driving range, putting green, pro shop, and several restaurants and bars. Don’t forget a visit to Alto Golf Course too, which is another 18-hole course located a little distance away in Alvor.
Beautiful Beaches around Portimao – Praia da Rocha is probably the most advertised of Portuguese landscapes. This picture perfect beach has some stunning rock formations, which serve as a breathtaking backdrop to the various water sports that can be enjoyed off the beach. A short way further along the coast is Alvor beach — a long stretch that goes all the way to the Ria de Alvor estuary. You then have Joao de Arens — a comparatively shorter stretch nestling among rocks and cliffs — and Vau, another beach bordered by fabulous rock formations, and a popular destination for families with children.
Santa Catarina de Ribamar Fortress – Compared to the other provinces of the Algarve, Portimao does not have many historic landmarks. But it does have the Santa Catarina de Ribamar Fortress, an ancient fort that was constructed in the 17th century as defence against raiding pirates. These days its duties have mellowed down to offering spectacular views of the sunset, as well as of the sea and the cliffs. The Tomas Cabreira Avenue that leads to the fort is lined with restaurants, bars, and other entertainment venues for the young at heart.
Wining And Dining – Portimao is a golfer’s paradise not just for the world famous golf courses found here; but also because of the fine Portuguese food and wine that can be enjoyed in the sumptuous restaurant and diners. Seafood in every imaginable style is prepared fresh and served with a smile. Popular dishes include grilled sardines, done to perfection over hot coals. The Cataplana, a dish of clams which takes its name from the hinged copper utensil in which it is prepared, is definitely worth trying. For meat-lovers the braised lamb with carrot preserve served with snails cooked in herbs is highly recommended.
Getting Around Portimao – The only way to really appreciate everything that Portimao has to offer is to hire a car. You can hire a car in advance by booking online at Your-Carhire.com – specialists in Portugal car rental services. Your vehicle will then be ready and waiting for you to pick up at the airport upon your arrival.