The true test of any golf course is measured by requiring a player’s ability to control shot length and direction. This 9-hole par-3 course optimises these demands. With holes ranging from 58 metres to 160 metres, the ability to hit crisp approach shots and to pitch and putt well, are the secrets of good scoring on this very attractive and manicured course.
Inaugurated in April 2001, and located close to the main road between Albufeira and Vilamoura, both the Golf Course and the Driving-range are open to golfers of all ages.
Opening times in the winter season are from 8 am to 6pm. During the rest of the year, the course is open from 7.30 am to 8 pm. On Wednesdays there is an 18 Hole Friendly Competition open to all golfers.
Tips given by professional players and based on white tees:
1
A downhill pitch to a small green guarded by a pond. This is a scenic starting hole, where feel for distance is at a premium. Long is safer than short!
2
Only a good strike will reward the player on this testing hole. The tee and green are at the same elevation but between is a tree-lined stream, which must be carried. The green is protected by a frontal sand trap. Par is a good score here.
3
An uphill shot to a green defended by a deep frontal sand trap. The ability to flight the ball high will gain rewards here.
4
A fine par 3, which enjoys a superb cork tree, short left of the green. A gentle draw on to the undulating green is the safest shot. Two sand traps to the right, luck to catch the push or slice.
5
Reversing direction to the east, this is another test of accuracy. The green set in mounds, is protected by a sand trap on the front right.
6
A downhill pitch to a green, which is not deep. Traps at the front and rear add to the need for good judgement of distance. Any over-hit shot will land in the stream behind the green.
7
The pleasant walk over a bridge brings the player to the demanding 7th. A long shot along a plateau with the green in a bowl below. Small pines and a sand trap, guard the front of the green. Any shot realign the green is a very good one!
8
Heading to the North in the direction of the attractive clubhouse, this hole requires a solidly struck shot. Two sand traps guard the front and left of the green. Friendly banking will help the shot which is only slightly off-line, but will add to the difficulty of the second shot, for any stoke more than twenty metres from the target.
9
Running parallel to the 1st hole, the pond is again in play. There is 'bale-out' space on the right but a tricky chip then faces the faint-hearted. The rear left of the green sports a sand trap, to make any left of centre flag position, a test of carry distance.
Information:
Founded
2001
Architect
Southern Golf
Proprietor
United Investements Portugal
Director
Maria José Pinto
Professional
Pedro Lemos
Green Keeper
Mário Alberto
Main events on this course
Map:
Balaia Golf Village - Sitio da Balaia, Apartado 917 8200-912 Albufeira, Portugal
Directions:
GPS
37º05'37.37"N 8º12'26.99"W
Via Infante (A22)- Albufeira Exit-9 and follow the signs to town and onto the Road EN 125. Do not turn off to Albufeira but continue east to the first traffic lights after Petrol Station on both right and left. Turn right at lights and follow road into the back of Albufeira until second roundabout. Go straight across at the roundabout and continue on the same road for about 3 kms. The entrance to the course is on the left hand side.
