The British Open triple champion Sir Henry Cotton used to play at Penina, using a donkey called ‘Pacífico’ as his caddie. All those years ago he saw the Algarve’s potential as a first-class golfing destination.

Do as Sir Henry Cotton did and play the Penina Championship Course, set among 400,000 trees and several lakes. Designed by Cotton himself, this course has hosted the Portugal Open on a number of occasions.

At Vilamoura, the oldest of the four courses in the area is the most famous in the country. Practice your swing at the Old Course, designed by Frank Pennink.

The course is purposefully reminiscent of the beautiful but difficult English inland courses.

The San Lorenzo meanwhile, is one of the best five courses in Europe. It is situated in the exclusive Quinta do Lago and is part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Its pine groves, lakes and beaches border the coast.

Inaugurated in 2002, the Quinta da Ria, at Vila Real de Santo António, is a flat 72-par course, designed by the respected Rocky Roquemore. And if you just want to improve your swing, opt for the individual lessons available.