The first golf course to be built in the Algarve in 1966, the Penina Championship Course is considered one of the best creations of Sir Henry Cotton, three times champion of the British Open who later became a golf architect. Cotton was in fact one of the first to recognize the Algarve’s huge potential as a golfing destination and he definately got that right with today over 30 courses available to play.
The quality and the huge success of the Penina Championship course encouraged the subsequent construction of many other courses that now exist in the region. Penina Championship course was completely rebuilt in 1994 although the main original features have been maintained.
This fairly flat parkland type course boasts almost four hundred thousand trees! Along with plenty of water, many bunkers, wide greens and a vast tee area, making this a real championship course.
At the 5th green you will find a new lake and five new bunkers along with more water around the 13th green which is now almost an island. All these additions have been added to the original layout to present you with a more challenging round as well an attractive course.
Penina also features two 9 hole courses by Sir Henry Cotton: The Resort Course, a pleasant Par 35 with 2,987 metres; and The Academy Course, a Par 30 with 1,851 metres.
Penina Resort Course (par 35, 2987m), Penina Academy Course (par 30, 1851m)
The Resort Course is enjoyable for a practice 9 holes before tackling the Championship course and the Penina Academy Course is great for beginners, especially if you have taken advantage of the superb teaching facilities at the Penina Golf Academy.
The Penina Golf Academy offers expert instruction packages aimed at golfers of all levels with a driving range, practice holes and putting greens. The English speaking pros are first class.
“Played Penina Championship twice and the Resort course once. Both found to be of a very high standard.
We did not explore the area until the last evening – will have to try again!
"This Year’s holiday at Penina was no exception to previous stays, in fact I would say it was even better this year. With an All Inclusive buffet, an excellent grill menu and good entertainment. all together with the excellent golf course!
Our holiday overall was excellent and I have already recommended Premier Iberian to other golfers!." Mrs Breeden stayed at Le Meridien Penina, Algarve
"Penina is one we have played many times, it is very difficult to play to handicap but the hotel makes up for that" Mr Rowland stayed at Le Meridian Penina.
"We played Penina Championship Course 3 times. First class course and in excellent condition." Mr Fergus