Vila Sol Golf Club

A real test of your game. Numerous water hazards, plenty of narrow fairways most of which heavily tree lined. Greens run true and in excellent condition bur fairways were being treated so probably not at there best.

A technically difficult course to navigate for mid/ high handicappers and a real challenge for low handicapper. Any score above 30 points should be regarded as excellent for all but regular players familiar with the course.

Members very friendly and facilities were excellent. All in all a top course.

Well what can you say about Vila Sol other than outstanding. The course was set up for the EDGA Portugese Open so it was immaculate. The greens were bloody quick in the sun. Slow play ruined my experience but I must find away of coping with that. This course has a slope rating of 3 extra shots, so its far from easy. Bring plenty of balls as I lost a few.
Features holes 6, 7, 13 and 14 hardest hole....the first its a brute!

This course is well known to me purely because another TSG member has been a member here for a number of years and spoke highly of it, so I was keen to see it for myself.

The clubhouse on first sight is welcoming although quite difficult to find your way round at first. The course itself is quite tight but not to the point of distraction or frustration and is set out in two loops of nine returning to the clubhouse. All the fairways are lined with a combination of pine, almond and fig trees, plants, flowers, lakes and streams – and it makes for a good and pleasant stroll.

However, this course, despite its history is very scruffy in places with unfinished housing, terrible fairway weeds creeping across many of the holes suggesting that it has seen better days. There is poor signage between holes (very important to the visitor). The course layout is good and the greens are fair and true but I would be lying if I said it was anything special. Of course, there are some great holes, most notably the Par threes stood out for me but I am not sure I would describe the place as PGA Tour standard.

In addition, the food served pre round was pretty poor, unless you think a deep fried soggy chicken sandwich is standard Portuguese fare. All the staff were friendly but I am not sure I will be rushing back any time soon.

Beautiful course, in great condition. Quite long and a test for all abilities, but not so penal that it becomes too much for high handicappers.Fairways and greens were superb, and there are some spectacular holes. Beers in the clubhouse were cheaper than in townand food was good value. Highly recommended.