Sir Henry Cotton knew what it was all about: the amenable climate, natural beauty, 150 kilometres of white sand, a coastline with magnificent cliffs and a great future for Golf in the Algarve.

Faro international airport opens it all up. The destination is home to 10 of the top 100 courses ranked by the prestigious Golf World magazine. And the International Association of Golf Tour Operators voted the Algarve as the best golfing destination.

Now you have chosen the region, take our suggestions for the best it has to offer. Start at the Ocean Course designed by Sir Henry Cotton and then the Royal Course, both in Vale de Lobo. You may well have heard of the latter’s famous hole 16. The three spectacular cliffs that stand between you and the green have brought in the photographers from all around the world.

The Formula One champion, Nigel Mansell has been president of Pine Cliffs. Hole number 6, on the side of a ravine, involving a shot across the beach, is still perhaps one of his greatest challenges. And other names to muse over: Palmares, by the historic city of Lagos, San Lorenzo, in the exclusive Quinta do Lago resort or the Quinta da Ria by the side of the beautiful Ria Formosa Nature Park.

Such choices may be difficult but the close proximity of these courses mean you can easily have a go at playing them all. Healthy eating with grilled fish and shellfish, dips in the sea and relaxation on a sea-facing terrace all come in addition to your favourite sport. Is there anything better?