Designed by:  Rocky Roquemore
Founded:  1997
Course Information:  18-holes, par 72, 5677 metres (yellow tees)
Location:  Vale do Lobo

Vale do Lobo Royal Course – Prestige, Power, and Portugal’s Most Photographed Hole

Inaugurated in 1997 and designed by Rocky Roquemore, the Royal Course at Vale do Lobo combines nine original holes by Sir Henry Cotton with nine new ones — creating a layout that’s both timeless and thrilling. Routed through umbrella pines and coastal cliffs, this par-72 championship course is famed for its dramatic 16th hole, perched atop a cliff with a carryover that’s become an icon of European golf.

Course Highlights

• 18 holes, par 72, stretching 6,005 metres
• Rolling fairways, lakes, and wildflower-lined bunkers
• Signature holes:

• Hole 9 – island-style green surrounded by water
• Hole 16 – cliff-top par-3 with a 224-yard carry over the ocean — one of the most photographed holes in Europe
• Hole 18 – strong finishing hole with bunkers and water in play

Playing Experience

• Ideal for low to mid handicappers seeking championship-level challenge
• Coastal winds, elevation changes, and strategic bunkering demand precision
• Practice facilities include:
  • Driving range
  • Putting greens
  • Short game area
• Golf Academy with PGA instruction and tech-driven analysis

Clubhouse & Amenities

• Elegant clubhouse with terrace dining and sea views
• Pro shop with Royal Course-branded gear and apparel
• Hosts elite tournaments, including the Portuguese Open composite layout (2002–2003)
• Linked to Vale do Lobo Resort — Portugal’s largest luxury golf and beach resort

Location & Access

• Located in Vale do Lobo, Central Algarve — ~20 minutes from Faro Airport
• Nearby: Ocean Course, Quinta do Lago trio, San Lorenzo
• Ideal for luxury golf holidays and multi-course itineraries

Highlights

“Royal Course: where cliffside courage meets championship pedigree”
“Sir Henry Cotton’s legacy, reimagined by Rocky Roquemore”
“From island greens to ocean carries — Vale do Lobo’s crown jewel”