Par: 72

Length: 5,859m

Designer: Cabell Robinson

Course Type: Parkland

Putting/practice green: Y

Driving range: Y

Handicap limit: Green card

The area: The forested area makes this parkland course a natural beauty. You’ll spy various species of plants among the gardens as you play a full round, with the Atlantic Ocean peeping out between the trees at a number of holes. Afterwards, head to the clubhouse to take the load off. You’ll soon see how it’s made the past two top 80 ‘Best European golf resort’ lists.

Holes: The 16th hole is a fun one – it’s a short tee shot with fab Atlantic views. Position yourself right and you’ll line the flag up nicely.

Facilities: Clubhouse, restaurant, six-hole academy course, pro shop, club hire

Par: 72

Length: 9,003m

Designer: Robert Trent Jones

Course Type: Parkland

Putting/practice green: Y

Driving range: Y

Handicap limit: M 28 / F 36

The area: Santo da Serra comprises three courses, but Machico & Desertas is the original. It’s set within a leafy landscape that creates a mix of terrain, utilising lakes and sandy bunkers around the fairways. There’s a putting green, driving range and choice of bars for refuelling too.

Holes: On the Machico & Desertas Course, each of the holes are a joy in their tropical-style surroundings. You’ll play an interesting shot beside a ravine too!

Facilities: Snack bar, clubhouse, bar, pro shop, club hire, locker room

Par: 72

Length: 6,434m

Designer: Seve Ballesteros

Course Type: Hillside

Putting/practice green: Y

Driving range: Y

Handicap limit: M 36 / F 36

The area: You know you’re onto a winner when you’re golfing on a Ballesteros-designed course. Among landscaped lakes and wraparound cliffs, the holes are arranged so that you can soak up the natural scenery as you take a swing. Nine-hole pitch and putt and the clubhouse’s relaxing amenities are among the fantastic features.

Holes: You’ll have a fair few challenges among the lot, but hole 13 in particular is a bobby-dazzler. Impressive sea views stretch past a gorge!

Facilities: Snack bar, restaurant, clubhouse, pro shop, academy, club hire, sauna and whirlpool (in clubhouse)