The Laguna course is one of five layouts in the Vilamoura Golf colleciton, on Portugal‘s central Algarve coast. Designed by the late American architect Joseph Lee and opened in 1990, it was originally part of the 27-hole Vilamoura III layout before nine holes were carved off to form the Millennium course. The result is a standalone 18-hole test with its own character. It plays to a par 72 over 6,121 metres from the white tees and shares a clubhouse, driving range and putting facilities with Millennium next door – handy if you fancy a 36-hole day.

The layout is flat, open and exposed, with few trees and plenty of lateral water giving it a strong links accent that sets it apart from the other Vilamoura tracks. Tee shots are relatively forgiving thanks to wide fairways, but holes 11 and 12 require careful play around and over the lakes, and the par-5 15th is widely regarded as the most memorable hole on the property – water everywhere and a real decision to make on the second shot. Wind frequently blows across this exposed location, which can transform the scorecard in either direction.

Conditioning is generally good, particularly through spring and autumn. Pace can stretch out in peak season – five-hour rounds aren’t unheard of – but on a quieter morning you’ll move along nicely. As part of the wider Dom Pedro setup, it’s a sensible inclusion in any multi-course Vilamoura trip, especially as an afternoon round.