There’s nothing quite like heading to the Algarve with a group of mates for a golf tour. This year, we outdid ourselves: a private villa, our own pool, and some of the finest fairways in Portugal. If you’re a fan of golf (and a cheeky vodka orange on the sixth hole), this one’s for you.
We played some world-class courses this trip, and let me tell you, the scenery is as sharp as our swings (well, most of our swings!).
Quinta do Lago (North): This place is unreal. The first tee is stunning, and the sixth hole is a beauty. It’s the perfect spot to pull out the flask of vodka orange and toast to a great day out in the sun.
Laranjal Golf Course: This is a “must-play” if you’re in the Algarve. It’s beautiful, but be warned: there’s a lot of water and even more bunkers! I managed to go round without losing a single ball—mission accomplished!
It wouldn’t be a lads’ trip without a bit of a trophy on the line. After a week of intense competition, I’m proud to say I finished joint first in the 2025 singles!
I let my mate Martin take the physical trophy home (he looked a bit too smug with it, to be honest!), but I’ve got the bragging rights. Watching the lads pose with their “closest to the pin” and “pairs” trophies was a highlight—though I did consider pushing them in the pool at one point!
If you’re heading to the Algarve, you need a reliable driver. Our guy Arthur from Deluxe Transfers looked after us all week—airport runs, golf transfers, you name it. He’s a legend. If you book him, mention Carly Boy 17 and he’ll take top care of you.
After the golf, we headed down to the Vilamoura Marina. It’s a great spot for dinner and a few shots to get the evening started. There’s even a rumour that Ronaldo has a boat moored there, though we were too busy with our mango shots to go hunting for it!
I won’t lie to you—the final morning was a struggle. After a week of golf and “refreshing” drinks, we were all feeling a bit worse for wear. A cold Coca-Cola and a cheeky McDonald’s delivery were the only things that saved us before the flight home.
Portugal, you’ve been brilliant as always. Great golf, even better company, and memories (and joint-winner status) that’ll last until next year.