| Well-known because of its appeal to international golfing celebrities, Pine Cliffs enjoys an exceptional clifftop position. The club's first president was racing driver Nigel Mansell. Frequent visitors include European Tour players who use the facilities for winter training. Located between Vilamoura and Albufeira the course layout uses its spectacular setting to good advantage. Served by the five-star Sheraton Algarve Hotel, it is understandably popular throughout the year.
The opening hole is a par 4 with a drive through an avenue of trees to a generous fairway. The approach is a mid-iron to a large, undulating green protected by bunkers. There onwards, the holes follow a path through the estate. The finishing two skirt the clifftop with the hotel providing a backdrop.
Many will be familiar with the now famous par 3 ninth. You have 155 metres to the green, but you're playing over this cavernous ravine. The hole is known as 'The Devil's Parlour.' It is extremely daunting. Reaching the green safely will leave a really good feeling. As Martin Hawtree, the course architect, said of his progeny: 'This is not a course to play in a hurry. It's necessary to take time to savour the peace and magnitude of the place.'It provides a place where a player can peacefully concentrate on all aspects of his game. The setting itself somehow encourages a calmer attitude towards play.
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