Why It Is A Good Idea To Choose Oceanico Pinhal Golf Course
The Algarve region of Portugal is one of the best golfing destinations in Europe. Blessed with exceptional weather during summer and very mild winters, it features a number of incredible golf courses, including the Oceanico Pinhal course.
Situated in the town of Vilamoura, Oceanico Pinhal golf course is a favorite for many golfers and an excellent course to both play and stay near for those visiting the Algarve on a golfing holiday for the first time.
Designed by golf architect Frank Pennink in the 1970’s, Pinhal received a major overall from the world renowned Robert Trent Jones, a true master of course design. But what keeps people coming back to this course time and time again? Let’s take a closer look.
Natural beauty and other attractions
The course is set in a wooded pine area and offers some of the most beautiful views in the Algarve, especially over the nearby ocean. Although most golfers will want to focus on their game, there is no denying that this is one of the most beautiful courses in Europe. There is also much to see in do in the area around Vilamoura, including incredible beaches, traditional fishing villages to visit and of course, mouth-watering local cuisine.
A wide variety of golfing challenges
Designed with both American and British design elements, Trent Jones ensure that the course at Pinhal will challenge even the most seasoned golfing veteran. The greens at Pinhal are very small making accuracy off the tee and in your approach crucial and definitely something to concentrate on during your round. The course also has a number of hazards, firstly the pine-lined fairways as well as more traditional water hazards and bunkers.
Don’t be scared to take a risk
Although Pinhal has challenges as mentioned above, there are holes where risk takers can be rewarded. The 17th, in particular, is a definite birdie and sometimes an eagle hole. It requires a decent drive over an out-of-bounds zone, taking much of the dogleg out of play. You need to be fairly long off the tee with your driver to accomplish this, however.
Facilities
Pinhal has a number of excellent facilities. These include a golf shop, practice area (with driving range and putting green) and restaurant and bar facilities to quench your thirst and fill your stomach after a well-played round.