User Reviews
for The Old Course Golf Club, Algarve, Portugal
Reviews 1 - 39 from 39
Not among the best in Algarve
Reviewed August 25, 2013
Played end 2011. Old Course is more of a "park course", and therefore different than most other Algarve alternatives. The advantage is that you're more secluded, that wind is less of a factor, but obviously that trees are more in play.
Nice course, nice layout. Very poor "club house facilities". Shower rooms from 1982, and I think the cleaner left in 2004?
Restaurant simple, and at best "OK".
Very nice course
Reviewed June 22, 2013
I played the course in June 2013. The course is beautifull and in excellent condition and when you take the twilight offer (I started at 14.30 pm) it is only EUR 74, a buggy is only EUR 20 (10 pp) and (excellent !) Titleist rental cub were only EUR 10. In total for less than EUR you can play a beautifull course!!
Must Play
Reviewed April 5, 2011
Spectacular old course. Great condition and fun to play.
6th hole, a 223 yard beauty.
Pricey, but worth it.
Original version
The Old Course - or - Vilamoura I
Reviewed February 6, 2024
...very old, the second oldest in the Algarve...
...that was the name of the course on our first visit, at that time Pinhal was called Vilamoura II...
We first put the tee in the ground here almost exactly 30 years ago - in 1994 - they had begun the initial work to modernize the course - the main work was carried out in 1996/1997 under the direction of Martin Hawtree.
The builder of the course - which opened in 1969 - Dutch-born Frank Pennink (1913-1983) built a few courses in the region.
Frank Pennink lived and studied in Oxford (England), was a very good athlete - cricket and golf - won the amateur championship in England in 1937 and 1938, took part in the Walker Cup several times, and was in the winning team in 1938. During the Second World War he was in the Royal Air Force, after his discharge he became a golf journalist for the Sunday Express and the Daly Mail.
He founded Pennink & Partners Ldt with Charles Kenneth Cotton and Charles Lawrie Cotten. Golf Course Design Company which Donald Steel also joined.
They were known for challenging greens, usually built higher, and a more conservative use of fairway bunkers. The trees that can be found in the middle of the fairways are their trademark.
The company worked in Britain, Europe and the Far East, and the courses appeared in the top list in all countries in which they worked - mostly in the top 10.
We played two rounds here in 1994, including the final round on this trip - the course was considered No3 at the time behind San Lorenzo and Vale do Lobo in the Algarve.
A great old course, so no houses within the complex. It's a very tight affair at times - because of the pine trees, the tee and the fairway - the drive has to be straight, otherwise it will be difficult to play par. If the ball is on the wrong side, you are almost certain to lose your shot, and some exposed greens are partly to blame. The moderate terrain crossings also make for more work every now and then.
The course doesn't quite serve 350 meters per hole, we thought it wouldn't be such a difficult task on tee 1 today...
The beginning is harmless Par 4 slightly downhill - 320 meters - the driver players were left and too long, the penalty follows immediately...
Hole 2 a par 5 - 435 meters - also slightly downhill the fairway is wide enough - driver full throttle, small wood or long iron into the green two putts - I think...
Hole 3 a par 4 - 324 meters - narrow at the front and big pine trees - the left has no chance, the right in the bunker, we've already wasted two or more shots...
Hole 4, a par 3, with the umbrella pine in the middle of the game - amazed us in 1994, stayed in our memory - wasn't a thing.
Hole 5 a par 5 - 485 meters - the avenue cost balls...
Hole 9 is a par 4 - 265 meters, very short - even offers the opportunity to attack the green from the tee, two of us tried it. It's very narrow at the front and the tall pine trees jut into the game and there are also two bunkers waiting. Present with a medium iron, a shot into the green and they were rewarded.
Hole 12 a par 5 - 487 meters - very difficult second shot because of the pine trees, very narrow...
Not everyone could save their single score into the clubhouse, so much for boring!!!
For us, in terms of layout, this is clearly a course in the top five in the Algarve and in the top ten in Portugal. Not only is Target Golf required, you are literally forced to do it. You can allow the driver to do the work, sometimes you can't; a 3-wood is usually the better option.
We played the last round in 2002, it was great to be here again after such a long time.
The maintenance is very good, but not great because the finishing touches were missing.
Not everyone gave it five stars, but it's enough!
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- Original version
Top place in top condition!
Reviewed January 31, 2024
Beautiful location, free driving range and very interesting courses. Golf heart, what more could you want? Exactly - well-maintained fairways and fair greens. We were able to experience everything here on a great day of golf. We will be back!!!
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- Original version
Very good condition, but boring and overpriced
Reviewed January 22, 2024
Hanen played the course again after years. Tee boxes, fairways and greens in perfect condition, for January 22nd. However, some pine trees have now protruded so far into the fairways that it is becoming unfair. In addition, the individual trackers have a very similar layout. Staff very friendly, but 302 for 2 people is way too expensive for such a place.
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Classic old course
Reviewed May 28, 2022
An old classic with beautiful old trees and good maintenance (April 2022) You should play once if you are in the area, despite the now high green fee
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Disappointing
Reviewed November 20, 2021
The completely dried up fairways with hundreds of unrepaired divots do not seem to receive any maintenance (mid-November). And that at € 130 green fee.
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Parkland golf - almost perfect
Reviewed May 15, 2021
Very varied, relaxed and fair parkland golf played in May 2021. Beautiful classic course layout.
Optical impression; "Recommended".
Corona means little operation on the system. Monosyllabic staff at the counter. Starter for it; lively and very friendly with detailed information on what to do and what not to do.
Condition of maintenance fairways and greens first class, almost without any defects.
Asphalted paths in need of repair in a few places.
Green bunker with firm sand under approx. 2 cm of new sand; So a clean, soulful sand game is required if you don't hit the green ;-).
Experience a very nice day of golf for two.
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- Original version
Advisable
Reviewed October 6, 2020
We played the Old Course in Oct. 2020. The state of care is generally excellent, the bunkers could perhaps have been loosened up more often. The staff are numerous and very polite.
The paths would have to be renewed, the pine trees break up the paths, so that it is very dangerous on the paths without a buggy. Otherwise a typical parkland course, every hole is almost identical. I do not think the amount of the green fee is justified, but I expect perfect perfection.
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- Original version
Classically good
Reviewed June 10, 2019
Classic. That comes to mind when I am at tee 1 of the Old Course. Classic golf between pine trees. In contrast to the squares in Vale do Lobo, it does not get through between the houses, the square is a natural unit. My favorite is hole 4, a great par 3 with a small lake and a great tree obstacle - a treat. Seen over the entire round, the holes look a bit similar, but the special, surprising is missing. So only 4 stars? No, because if you can play a golf course in such a densely built-up area that offers so much nature and quality and is still fair and enjoyable to play, then this combination definitely deserves 5 stars.
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- Original version
Advisable
Reviewed February 12, 2019
Played in February 2019, the course was in good condition, some of the ground a bit too wet, the greens not too fast. Striking the place design is that there is only a single water hazard (or now Penalty Aerea). But strategically placed bunkers & the ubiquitous pines require strategically good and accurate play.
A buggy bar was in action and happened to us 3 times during our 4:20 hours on the course.
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- Original version
Parkland in its original form
Reviewed December 2, 2018
Played on 28.11.2018. The slightly hilly Course (Cart for normal sports Ambitious not required) is located on the edge of the tourist stronghold Vilamoura in absolute peace and nature. Only on the outer edge of the square are some villas in the most subtle distance. You play the parkland course (just a water obstacle) through a pine landscape. And that's the only challenge, apart from possibly two three slightly smaller tees. The pines definitely come into play more often. It's just as the name implies an old ingrown place. There are some nice increased haircuts, that's about it, too. So correct highlights I missed personally. The final tracks are more "normal" and do not tear it out. The condition was okay but not great. The greens except for a few not repaired pitch marks (as the course of course can not help it) in very good condition, every now and then strongly undulating, loyal and fast. The Cartwege could use a renewal. The in my view here in any case with in November 144 € overpriced green fee (a star deduction therefore) you pay in the clubhouse (already a bit old but OK) in the busy but nice staff. From 12:50 clock reduced the green fee to 92 €, which is more appropriate. However, you then run the risk of cope with slow flight before one, not in the light. The starter was nice and gave a brief introduction. A driving range is available. Some euphoric reviews, I can not join, is just a matter of taste. From my point of view, not a must, in the region there are more exciting, varied places, but who likes golf in its original form, which is the round recommended here.
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Demanding golfing in beautiful surroundings
Reviewed November 8, 2018
At least moderate place with beautiful well-kept tracks, many ballschluckenden often in the way standing pines and only a few water hazards. Overall, the green fee is too high, yet worth playing if you're golfing in the area, as the course is undoubtedly one of the better in Portugal. Clubhouse also quite passable. Spectacular scenic start offers Bahn 1 down the slope.
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- Original version
Great golf course
Reviewed October 26, 2018
On 26.10.18 my wife and I played "The Old Course". In the first nine unfortunately rain, in the back nine sunny / cloudy. The course is great, sophisticated, well maintained. The ladies in the golf secretariat very friendly and helpful, as well as helpful caddy master. In the restaurant friendly service, food was normal.
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Venerable old place
Reviewed October 25, 2018
Like all top courses in the Algarve, this one is well maintained and maintained. The tracks are - even by the ubiquitous pines - demanding and not as wide as they look. Due to the fouling and the larger distances between the Spielbahen as well as between the flights you rarely see other golfers and the system exudes great peace and quiet.
Even if the game fee is not exactly a bargain I will come back at the next opportunity.
I did not frequent the gastronomy - therefore no assessment.
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- Original version
The best
Reviewed June 17, 2018
The "Old Course" is for me the best golf course around Vilamoura. The course is challenging and wonderfully integrated into nature. Since most fairways are lined with pine trees, you have to play strategically if you want to bring home a good result. The fairways and greens are very well maintained - the clubhouse with the restaurant does not match the level of the course.
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- Original version
Worth a trip!
Reviewed April 16, 2018
Can I agree with the above, positive reviews only. The place is very varied and wonderfully integrated into nature. Who has a problem with the pines, it is your own fault and should adapt his game accordingly! Driving range and restoration, however, have room for improvement.
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Wonderful
Reviewed February 25, 2018
If it were not for the Victoria, I would say that this is my absolute favorite place. But putting him second would not do the place justice. You play interesting, varied fairways, sometimes flat, sometimes downhill, sometimes uphill and always demanding. The fairways are lined with pine trees, so you do not realize that you play in the middle of the village. Even in the off season on New Year's Eve the place was in perfect condition and wonderful to play.
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- Original version
Great old place
Reviewed March 15, 2017
We played the course in mid-March and loved it because of the old trees, the great integrates the space in the dense development of Vilamoura.
The service left nothing to be desired, even if it still seems a bit exaggerated, if one is driven 50 meters from the parking lot to the clubhouse with the cart, but so be it.
The place is as already mentioned great grown, but this very precise game and perhaps even require a detour because flag or planned landing zone are playable without tree contact.
The course is thus the perfect contrast to Victoria Square, which was created for today's tournaments.
The condition was very good and left nothing to be desired. The fact that the greens were airifiziert have to accept at certain seasons and deal with it.
Conclusion: Games if you like narrow fairways with mature trees. Hitter off the tee should consider alternatives to Driver.
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- Original version
Precise Match is asked
Reviewed November 25, 2016
I played the course on 22 November 2016th My golf bag is taken off me after the parking. The Caddy makes everything ready and bring the golf bag for putting green prior to the clubhouse. The ladies at the reception are friendly, as well as the Caddy Master, the starter and the rest of the staff. The infrastructure has come into the day but overall okay. The place is beautifully designed, varied and in an excellent maintenance condition. Here precise game is primarily asked what stands already on the first fairway (I have rarely seen such a close fairway). Hitters with scattering bring here is not a good result home. Overall a great experience and worth the money in any case. I will gladly come again.
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- Original version
Wonderful golf course
Reviewed October 28, 2016
We have experienced a very nice day of golf at the Old Course the end of October. Varied, partly narrow alleys, excellent maintenance condition and very friendly service, undoubtedly one of the best golf courses on the Algarve. Can highly recommend.
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Here everything is right!
Reviewed September 25, 2016
A great place that we found perfect in every way! Varied, well maintained, nice staff. One place you should play absolutely!
Mustapha
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Nice, tight and short, but overpriced
Reviewed February 16, 2016
The positives first: A lovely, slightly hilly course without much obstacles besides the beautiful trees. The condition was good, but not spectacular.
Green fee + Trolley + Rangeballs together were more expensive than the Victoria, who still is then an entirely different league.
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The best Oceânico
Reviewed November 16, 2015
Interesting holes in great care condition. Greens were fast but fair. Slightly hilly surrounded by pine, it is important to place his tee shot on the fairway - partially the right side of the fairway !!! - Except you can shapen into your beats Green
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Great Place
Reviewed October 27, 2015
Very well maintained and exciting holes. Highly recommended. Hilly and not the widest fairways but fair. We liked the place very much and, amazingly, was not busy and we were able to just play through without delay. Relatively expensive.
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Very nice, well-kept place
Reviewed October 23, 2015
Played in October 2015th The place was very well maintained and made spirits. However, a hilly course with a little water for narrow lanes lined by beautiful pine. The staff is very friendly and helpful. Highly recommended for all skill levels.
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Entschleunigend
Reviewed September 9, 2015
Beautiful and cozy place with super manicured fairways and greens. Exact match is the many trees and the consequent partly very narrow fairways demand.
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One of the best!
Reviewed December 7, 2014
The Old Curse for me is still the best part of the Oceanico resort and one of the best courses in Portugal!
It is a must for all golfers Algarve!
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Feeling of Belek in the Algarve
Reviewed November 9, 2014
Fantastically well-kept place surrounded with pine trees. Each hole is a delight. Easy to go, so on a cart can be safely omitted.
Every time again and a must in the Algarve!
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Beautiful place, old place
Reviewed October 27, 2014
With very many and beautiful pine trees. Good Condition, very friendly and helpful staff. The site has short distances and is very pleasant to walk.
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A must
Reviewed February 8, 2014
A beautiful, well-kept golf course. Each web has a sight for sore eyes. Not easy to play, but the challenge is really fun. Man can smell the tradition. An absolute must.
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Good
Reviewed January 22, 2014
Beautiful parkland course in good maintenance condition. Very friendly staff.
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Power up to its name
Reviewed January 19, 2014
We played the course in January 14. A place with beautiful old trees that can be played even without trolley or buggy. Short distances and top care status and off the fairways and greens. Something älters Clubhouse but very friendly staff. Gladly again.
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Class
Reviewed March 1, 2013
Were there in February 2013. The square and the state were outstanding. The old trees, which is already on the 1 in impressive fashion to advantage, extends over the entire system. Fairways and greens were very good. Staff is very friendly. In addition to the Victoria course an absolute must!
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Fantastically
Reviewed August 31, 2012
Beautiful place! Necessarily play.
I played there in June 2012. Top condition.
What is terribly annoying but sometimes the cries of countless children who inhabit the pools of the adjacent villas.
Clubhouse bit old fashioned / slightly run down, but ok. Restaurant not grade the Burner but ok but with beautiful views. Service nice and very helpful, eg beverage ice box at cart.
No Handicap control
Ps According to Hilton brochure incidentally Men 28 / Women 36
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Beautiful Place
Reviewed April 22, 2012
A wonderful old golf course in very good condition care. If you play!
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Great Place
Reviewed January 20, 2012
Have played there for the year 2011/1012. Very nice place, well maintained, good to run, it feels like any well.
A must.
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A must in the Algarve
Reviewed September 8, 2010
This total is not very difficult place has a special atmosphere. The place is not affected by roads or houses. The condition is always good. I love this place, if I am just after sunrise on the first Tea stand.
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