Praia d’El Rey Resort sits right on the Atlantic, about an hour north of Lisbon, and feels a world away from busy resort golf. The 18-hole championship course, designed by Cabell B. Robinson, mixes classic links holes along the coast with inland parkland sections framed by pines and dunes. The front nine eases you in, while the back nine runs beside the ocean and is where the course really shows its teeth, wind, firm turf and exposed greens all come into play.

The course is challenging without being unfair, rewarding solid ball-striking and sensible course management. Sea views are constant, especially from the closing holes, and conditions are typically excellent year-round.

Accommodation is centred around the Marriott Praia d’El Rey Golf & Beach Resort, offering spacious rooms, apartments and villas, ideal for groups or longer stays. Dining is low-key but good, with a couple of on-site restaurants and bars, plus more options a short drive away in Peniche or Óbidos. Off the course, the area is quiet and traditional. Óbidos, a historic walled town, is nearby and well worth a visit, while Lisbon makes an easy day trip if you want culture, food or nightlife.