Madeira provides many diverse reasons to make it a destination of choice. A very appealing year-round climate and the Island's natural beauty will make most activities more attractive and none more so than the option to play some golf in the sunshine surrounded by stunning backdrops and views that are simply breathtaking.
There are currently three golf courses on the Madeira archipelago: two on Madeira Island (which will be featured in this article) and one in Porto Santo Island (which will have a dedicated publication soon). Another golf course is being built in Ponta do Pargo, on Madeira Island, bringing the count to four golf infrastructures by 2024. All this offer makes Madeira an option as a golf destination on a landscape that could well be considered a golfers' paradise.
My first round was at Palheiro Golf Club, which is located on the 150-acre Palheiro Nature Estate, also home to Hotel Casa Velha do Palheiro. We had two very relaxing nights in the hotel, which is elegant and sophisticated. The rooms are a mix of classical and bespoke design, mixing the history of the hotel with contemporary touches. When arriving in the car park of the estate, you will be met with one of the best views on the Island, situated 500m above sea level and overlooking the city of Funchal. The uninterrupted vantage point is breathtaking. It is also worth noting that this view is shared throughout the clubhouse restaurant, bar and terrace areas.
The course itself is beautifully manicured from tee to green and provides a test for all abilities. The course meanders through a botanical woodland with vibrant colours that are prominent throughout Madeira and are on full display on every hole at Palheiro Golf Club.
The golf course layout offers great variety and will test every part of your game! Relatively generous fairways but the greens are well protected, and although many provide a large target area, depending on the pin position, it is often important to find a favourable side of the green to make putting that little bit easier. The quality of the green complexes was excellent. The first 5 holes provide mountains and greenery as your backdrop, and when you reach the 6th hole the views of the ocean return. The 13th and 15th holes are my personal favourites. The 13th is a Par 3, rivalling many in beauty and design. Reaching the green will require a shot across the ravine filled with an abundance of colour. The target is small and slightly elevated, bunkers await anything that may be short. The 15th is a Par 5 dogleg right to left, in addition to being a well-designed hole the infinity green provides views of the ocean are only bettered by that of the 18th green and the clubhouse. Once your round is complete, don’t rush anywhere, just take a seat on the terrace, and enjoy the warm welcome and that never-ending view.
