Did you know? In1971, astronaut Alan Shepard Junior decided to play golf on the Moon! And yes, a 6-iron, a few balls and that was it.
Of course, you don’t have to go that far to play golf in an unlikely setting. Lush, varied landscapes, ideal for concentrating and breathing…that’s what Portugal’s northern region has to offer.
Discover with us the five best golf courses in the north of the blue country.
Axis Golfe - Ponte de Lima
If you like old mansions and grounds that stretch as far as the eye can see, you won’t be disappointed. Axis Golfe offers 18 holes, the first 9 of which are in hilly areas.
Halfway between holes 1, 10, 9 and 18 you’ll find the Club House, which offers a range of services including a golf store, restaurant, bar, TV room and two tennis courts. Still not convinced? Let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool and sauna!
What’s more, group courses are also available, ideal for those who want to enjoy the experience together. And if you’re just starting out and know how to handle an iron as well as we do, don’t worry and book your individual lesson right away!
Estela Golf Club - Póvoa de Varzim
For the more refined, we offer a different taste experience! Named the 5th best golf course in Portugal, Estela Golf Club is considered one of the most luxurious.
Located in Povoa de Varzim, just a 30-minute drive from the vibrant city of Porto, it offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is located in a protected area and ensures your well-being. The impeccable service also offers personalized accompaniments, as well as a bar and restaurant for refreshments.
After all, it’s not always easy to practice aiming at the 18 holes on the course under a beautiful Portuguese sun!
Gulf of Amarante
Say goodbye to the coast! This time, we’re heading a little further inland, to the east of Porto, towards Amarante.
This golf course may be smaller, but it’s no less challenging. It will test your ability and concentration, as distances are not so easy to judge.
If you like a challenge, hole 4 is for you: its approach shot must be taken from a green raised 10 meters above the narrow fairway. Good luck!
Club Golf Miramar - Arcozelo
For a trip back in time, discover one of Portugal’s oldest and most traditional golf clubs.
Located along the beach of the same name (Miramar beach), you’ll have the chance to play right up to the sand dunes! Sure, it’s not the Moon, but it’s impressive all the same, isn’t it?
Since 1932, this course has offered nine holes, some of which require a high level of skill. Beware, however, of the strong winds that blow across Portuguese beaches…
Vidago Palace Golf Club
The main reason why this site has stricter regulations than the others is to preserve its environment. In fact, you’ll have the opportunity to play on a raised terrain, surrounded by century-old trees.
The variety of the 18 holes on offer will allow you to test your skills from different angles and never get bored! In fact, the further along the course you go, the closer you get to the beautiful view of the hills and villages from the upper part of the course.
So, while the dress code requirement may seem a little extreme, it’s well worth it and helps preserve this beautiful Portuguese heritage.
Would you like to give it a try?
If you just can’t make up your mind, don’t worry, we’ve got the solution too!
There is a Porto Golf Pass that allows you to visit several different courses. Axis Golf, Estela Golf and Vidago Golf are all members of this pass.
Take out a Golf Pass with Portours for 3, 4 or 5 rounds, and play on at least two golf courses in Portugal’s northern region!
