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This 27-hole parkland course was designed by
American architect Joseph Lee, completing the trio of
championship courses owned by Lusotur Golfes SA at the
Vilamoura resort . The first 18 holes , the pinhal and
the Lago courses ,measure 2935 metres and 2953 metres
respectively from the back tees and opened in 1990. The
nine-hole Marina loop, measuring 3180 metres, was
completed in 1993. It is not particularly long for a
modern layout but Lee has made great use of a high water
table and introduced water hazards on numerous holes. The
greens are heavily bunkered so highly accurate iron play
is needed for a good score. The first hole on the Pinhal
nine is a 328-metre par 4 with out-of bounds waiting to
catch a hooked tee shot. A number four wood may be the
best choice here followed by a medium iron to the well
bunkered green. Two hearty shots should be enough to
bring the strong hitter within birdie distance of the par
5 second. after a straightforward par 4 thirdcomes the
first par 3 which again presents few problems,
culminating in a large green. Club selection is critical
if the wind is against at the par 3 6th which runsto an
elevated two-level green and a mistake here could see
your ball on the wrong step and in the 3 putt zone. The
next par 4 is a memorable hole of 376 metres which
demands a strong tee shot to achieve a glimpse of the
green and a downhill iron shot. The par 4 9th is an
enjoyable hole. The drive needs to be left of the fairway
bunkers on the right make it a tough first shot. A green
with water in front and bunkers at the back is a daunting
prospect for the careless player. The 315-metre par 4 5th
on the Lago course also requires diligent play to
overcome a dogleg hole with water cutting intothe
fairway. A built-up green is flanked by a lake which
invites the sliced shot. The 9th, a par 4 of 378 metres,
has a lake guarding the entrance to the green and the
line of the tee shot must overcome an old water well
situated in the centre of the fairways. The Marina course
presents a similar golfing challenge with water hazards
playing a predominant role. |
