Ocean Course

Location

The Ocean Course is situated in Vale do Lobo, a residential development in Almancil, Loulé municipality, in the Algarve. It stands out for its remarkable proximity to the coastline, offering direct contact with the region's maritime environment. The course extends through a natural landscape that includes umbrella pines and fig trees, and runs alongside a nature reserve, before gently flowing into the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

Legacy and Conception

The origin of the Ocean Course dates back to the 1960s, with the creation of two independent nine-hole courses. These were designed by the renowned architect Sir Henry Cotton and inaugurated in 1968 and 1972, respectively. Cotton's vision of uniting these courses into a single eighteen-hole course was realized in 1985. Currently, the course has a total length of 6122 meters and a Par 73.

The Course and the Landscape

The course combines links course characteristics with gently undulating fairway sections, creating a varied and challenging layout. Throughout the game, golfers get significantly closer to the Atlantic Ocean, a feature that distinguishes this course on the international stage. In particular, holes 11 and 14, both Par 4s, and hole 15, a Par 3, are located by the beach, offering wide and memorable perspectives of the coastline and the sea.

Practice Areas

For those wishing to hone their technique or take their first steps in the sport, the location offers dedicated practice areas. There is an elevated and sheltered area, ideal for beginners or for warming up before a match. Additionally, a grassed area is dedicated to practicing the short game, including practice in bunkers and a putting green, with the possibility of receiving guidance from golf professionals.