Golf Holidays in Madeira

Golf Breaks in Madeira

Madeira, the "Pearl of the Atlantic" is a paradise for those who like nature. Situated in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, 500 kms from the coast of Africa, it has long been an established favourite for British holidaymakers, who come here for a break from the British winter to enjoy its year-round mild climate.

Now, Madeira is becoming a popular destination for relaxing golf holidays. There may only be two golf courses on the island, but they are both superb and well worth playing more than one round on. Indeed, Santo da Serra has 27 holes and can be played in three different 18 hole combinations. If you like to combine your golf with beautiful surroundings, a wonderful climate and fine food and wines, then a Madeira golfing holiday could be the perfect choice.

The island is beautiful with pretty red roofed houses dotting the precipitous slopes which overlook the capital city of Funchal. Madeira is lush and green with an abundance of trees and flowers and the temperatures which seldom fall below 17c in winter or 22c in summer, are perfect for golfing.

A bustling and vibrant city by day, in the evenings Funchal has a relaxing continental atmosphere, and it is a pleasure to wander amongst the excellent restaurants and bars.

Palheiro Golf is situated on Madeira Island some 10 km east of Funchal with magnificent views overlooking the town and bay and is set within the stunning 200 year old Palheiro Estate. The 18-hole par 72 course was designed by Cabell Robinson and opened in 1993. Palheiro Golf winds around the Palheiro Estate which is famous for its pine forests, centennial trees, flowering shrubs and lush vegetation. The Palheiro Golf clubhouse, perched 500 meters above sea level, boasts a panoramic terrace which commands unlimited views of the Funchal harbour and the Atlantic Ocean. The stylish Palheiro Golf clubhouse is further complemented by the superb restaurant, managed by the award winning Relais and Châteaux hotel Casa Velha do Palheiro.

Opened in 1991 and featuring magnificent sea and mountain views, this Robert Trent Jones design is one of the most spectacular courses to be found anywhere in the Europe. While most of the 27 holes feature wide sweeping fairways, there are plenty of hazards to trap the unwary, including water, bunkers and the occasional ravine.