Jet ToThe Algarve from Ireland For Some of Europe’s Best Golfing

Irish golfers keen to emulate the back to back US open success of  Northern Ireland golfers Graeme McDowell and Rory McIlroy will now find it a lot easier to log in extra hours on the course with a new daily route from Belfast to Faro. The Algarve city is a gateway to golfer’s paradise and just a short drive from a number of world class courses with almost guaranteed year round sunshine.

While Belfast shivers in snow, wind and rain for much of the winter, the temperate climate of the Algarve makes for excellent golfing facilities and sun drenched rounds are possible even in the depths of December or January.

Wrapping itself around the stunning coastline of southern Portugal, the Algarve’s 30+ courses are not just sun traps but idyllic destinations in their own right. With dramatic landscaping, beautiful sea views and excellent facilities, it’s no surprise the region plays hosts to a number of international and European championships.

Of course, with legendary courses such as Valderama to visit during any golf holiday, picking a suitable base is essential to really making the most of the trip. A self-catering Algarve villa is a flexible and practical option, particularly for groups of golfers travelling together.   Cheaper than a hotel but with all of the comforts of a luxury stay, a large Algarve villa – say four or five bedrooms- can comfortably accommodate groups of eight or more. Choose one with a private pool and outdoor space and post-golf rest and relaxation takes care of itself.

The popular resort of Vale do Lobo combines the facilities you’d expect in a holiday resort such as a gorgeous beach, great bars and choice of local fish restaurants with a convenient central location just a stone’s through from a wide selection of golf courses.

Premier Holidays, Algarve villa specialists, have recently extended their already ample portfolio in the Algarve. Fifty new properties have been added, giving more than 130 villas and apartments to choose from. Ian Fox from Premier Holidays said, “Golfers wanting to spend every spare minute on the course should pick a villa on a purpose built resort – any of our Quinta do Lago villas for example enjoy views of the fairways. Built around 72 holes of world class golf, guests are literally spoilt for choice and have very little distance to travel to find a challenging course and excellent training facilities.

“Vale do Lobo is also a safe choice with a choice of villas or townhouses to stay in, situated next to what is possibly one of the most photographed golf courses in the world. One of our most popular Vale do Lobo villas is Casa Potes, a stunning 5 bedroom, 5 bathroom villa with outdoor heated pool, large terrace, games rooms and jacuzzis.”

For more information about golfing in the Algarve and to book a villa or apartment online, visit http://www.premier-holidays.com.