Introduction

Well, as a fairly well travelled golfer, who plays (pretty badly) off 14 - I thought it would be a good idea to post my (and my friends) recommendations about golf travel plus any anecotes about golf that we may run across......

My first post takes me back a couple of weeks and a short hop on Easyjet to Faro and then down to the Dom Pedro Golf Hotel in Vilamoura. We stayed at the 4 star (not bad not great) hotel and the shuttle buses collected us each morning, as we played the Victoria Course, Vila Sol (1-9, 19-27) and finally the under rated Pinhal.

I played really well around the Victoria, which is pretty expensive. The front nine is a bit forgettable (although brilliantly kept), but the back 9 is fantastic, 11 and 12 are great holes - the 12th is a cracking par 5 with water all along the left and positional play essential. 14 is another thinking mans hole and the finish is superb - 17 a testing but Birdieable (is that a word?) par 5 and 18 an tough Par4.

Vila Sol I was disappointed with - the front 9 was good, but the 19-27 loop was not very well kept and did notlating impression one me.

Pinhal is a terrific course. Some tight holes, great greens and fabulous backdrop overlooking Vilaoura and the surrounding Villas and apartments. Great club house and brilliant staff!!!!

Took the money 2 out of 3 days, so pretty happy with the trip.

If you are using the shuttle buses - call early - otherwise you may find it tight for tee times.

Going for a beer in Vilamoura? Avoid the Casino (its a rip off) head for one of the Irish bars or Italian restaurants on the front.