ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
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Course Report
Monte Rei is the only Jack Nicklaus Signature course in Portugal and is consistently ranked the number one course in the country.
About
Monte Rei Golf & Country Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is widely regarded as Portugal's premier championship course. Opened in 2007 in the hills of Eastern Algarve, it offers an undulating landscape, panoramic mountain and ocean views, water hazards on eleven holes, and carefully manicured conditioning. The club is renowned for world-class service, luxury accommodations, and its challenging, memorable layout.
Caddie Tip
Pay attention to pin positions as the greens are multi-tiered and well-guarded by bunkers. Many fairways are wider than they appear, but on water holes, aim for safe sides and favor conservative club choices. Pace yourself on hilly terrain, as the back nine can be physically demanding. Local advice often mentions clubbing up on the approach to elevated greens.
The Main Challenge
The greatest challenge at Monte Rei is negotiating water hazards, which come into play on over half the holes. Many greens are multi-tiered and protected by numerous bunkers or run-offs, penalizing errant shots. The undulating terrain adds difficulty for club selection and accuracy, especially with frequent elevation changes and variable wind.
The Good
Golfers love the tranquility and sense of exclusivity, as each hole feels secluded and seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. Service levels are outstanding, the practice facilities are world-class, and attention to detail is seen both in course design and in the off-course amenities. The panoramic mountain and ocean views are a major highlight of the experience.
The Not So Good
Some guests mention the course can be challenging for higher handicaps due to forced carries and water hazards. During hot summers or after drought conditions, turf quality on certain holes may not match the usual perfection. Walkability is limited due to elevation changes, and some prefer more forward tee options for casual play.
Signature Hole:
#
13
The par 4 13th at Monte Rei features a dramatic tee shot over water, requiring strategic placement to avoid hazards left and right. The approach is equally challenging, demanding accuracy to a well-protected green with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Many consider it the most picturesque and testing hole on the course.
Clubhouse
The luxurious clubhouse at Monte Rei features fine dining, a grill room, expansive terraces with views of the course, elegant locker rooms, boutique pro shop, lounges, and shuttle service to villas. Guests enjoy five-star service, Molton Brown toiletries in changing areas, and access to resort amenities like pools, gym, and concierge.
Practice Facilities
Monte Rei provides a spacious driving range with target greens, short game area, dedicated chipping and bunker zones, and large practice putting green. Facilities include personalized bag drop, expert instruction, and premium practice balls. The practice environment matches the quality and exclusivity of the main course.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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