There are golf courses with views and then there are golf courses where the natural surroundings become part of the round itself. Quinta da Ria is the second kind. Running alongside the Ria Formosa natural park in the eastern Algarve, it offers something you will not find anywhere on the Golden Triangle.
The Ria Formosa is a protected lagoon system stretching along the Algarve coastline. It is a network of channels, islands and tidal flats home to a huge variety of wildlife. At Quinta da Ria, several holes play along the edge of the park, with the water and the wetlands sitting just beyond the rough. On a calm morning it is one of the more distinctive settings you will find on a golf course in Portugal.
The Course
Quinta da Ria was designed by Rocky Roquemore and opened in 2001. It plays to around 6,600 yards from the back tees and has a layout that uses the natural terrain well. There are elevation changes, trees coming into play on several holes, and the lagoon acting as a backdrop and occasional hazard across the back nine.
It is not as demanding as Monte Rei but it is not meant to be. The two courses complement each other well when played on consecutive days. Quinta da Ria rewards accuracy over length and has enough variety in its holes that the round stays engaging throughout. The greens are well maintained and true, and the course manages its pace of play sensibly.
Playing along the edge of the Ria Formosa is unlike anything else in the Algarve. On some holes the only sound is birds and the occasional plane heading into Faro.
The Setting
The course sits near Cabanas de Tavira, a small coastal village that is about as far from the resort atmosphere of Vilamoura as you can get while still being in the Algarve. The pace of the eastern Algarve is different. Fewer tourists, fewer golf groups, a lot more space.
The clubhouse is relaxed and the staff are welcoming. Worth leaving time for lunch with a view across the course.
Who It Suits
Quinta da Ria works well for all handicaps. It is challenging enough to be satisfying for low handicappers but accessible enough that mid to high handicappers will enjoy themselves without feeling like the course is getting away from them. It is particularly good for golfers who appreciate a course that has its own character rather than just ticking boxes.
On a three-course trip to the eastern Algarve, Quinta da Ria tends to be the one people talk about afterwards for reasons that have as much to do with the setting as the golf itself.
Getting There
The course is around 40 minutes east of Faro Airport, close to the town of Tavira. It sits adjacent to Quinta da Cima, which shares the same entrance road, making the two straightforward to play on back-to-back days without any logistical hassle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Quinta da Ria a good golf course?
Yes. Quinta da Ria is a well-regarded course with a setting alongside the Ria Formosa natural park that is unlike anything else in the Algarve. It is a step down in prestige from Monte Rei but has its own distinctive character.
What makes Quinta da Ria special?
Several holes play along the edge of the Ria Formosa, a protected lagoon system stretching along the Algarve coast. The wildlife, the water views and the generally quiet atmosphere make it a memorable round.
How far is Quinta da Ria from Faro Airport?
Quinta da Ria is around 40 minutes east of Faro Airport, near the town of Tavira. It shares an entrance road with Quinta da Cima, making both easy to play on consecutive days.
Is Quinta da Ria suitable for beginners or high handicappers?
Yes. The course is accessible for all handicap levels. It has enough variety to keep low handicappers interested while being forgiving enough that high handicappers can enjoy themselves.
Can you play both Quinta da Ria and Quinta da Cima on the same trip?
Yes, and it works very well. The two courses are adjacent and play very differently. Quinta da Ria has the Ria Formosa setting while Quinta da Cima is longer with Bermuda grass fairways and olive tree-lined holes.
Play Quinta da Ria on a Pin & Palm Retreat
Five days, three courses, one private villa. Everything included for groups of two to six.
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