Madeira’s Golfing Gems: Stay & Play in Style!
- davidfspinheiro
- Jan 16
- 4 min read
Imagine waking up to the sound of the Atlantic, stepping onto your private balcony with a view of the ocean, and knowing that in just minutes, you’ll be teeing off on some of Europe’s most breathtaking golf courses. Madeira, Portugal’s “Pearl of the Atlantic,” is a golfer’s paradise where world-class fairways, luxurious stays, and unforgettable adventures come together in perfect harmony. Madeira’s subtropical climate means you can play and explore year-round, with average temperatures hovering around 21°C. The island’s compact size makes it easy to combine golf with cultural excursions, beach days, and culinary adventures. Whether you’re chasing birdies, savouring local wine, or hiking through lush forests, Madeira promises an experience as rich and varied as its landscapes.
⛳️ Palheiro Golf: a visual feast from the very first tee shot to the very last putt!
🏌🏻♀️ Why play here? Perched 500 meters above Funchal, Palheiro Golf is an 18-hole championship course (par 72) designed by Cabell B. Robinson. The course winds through maritime pine and botanical woodland, offering dramatic views and a challenging yet rewarding experience. The clubhouse restaurant, with its panoramic vistas, is a must-visit for post-golf relaxation.
⛳️ Santo da Serra Golf Club: world-class golf in one of the most beautiful natural landscapes you could imagine!
🏌🏽 Why tee off here? Just 20 minutes from Funchal, Santo da Serra Golf Club is a 27-hole masterpiece (par 72) designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., offering panoramic views of the Atlantic and the island’s rugged coastline. The club’s three distinct circuits (Machico, Desertas, and Serras) challenge and delight players of all levels, while the clubhouse’s panoramic restaurant is the perfect spot to relive your round with a glass of local Madeira wine.
⛳️ Ponta do Pargo Golf (under construction):
🏌️♀️ Perched on the dramatic clifftops of Madeira’s westernmost point, the Ponta do Pargo Golf Course is a par 72 masterpiece designed by Sir Nick Faldo, scheduled for a grand opening in summer 2026. The course is defined by its breathtaking "cliff-edge" holes and over 180 meters of elevation change, offering panoramic Atlantic views near the iconic Ponta do Pargo lighthouse. Combining world-class challenge with environmental sustainability, the project includes a luxury clubhouse and a nine-hole academy course, solidifying Madeira's reputation as a premier global golf destination.
🤩 Perfect Hotels for your golf stay:
📍 Funchal (approx. 15min drive to Palheiro Golf, 25min to Santo da Serra Golf Club, 45min to Ponta do Pargo Golf):
Savoy Palace (5⭐️): Located in the heart of Funchal , Savoy Palace is the epitome of modern luxury. After your round, unwind in the largest spa in Portugal, take a dip in the rooftop infinity pool, or enjoy a meal at one of the hotel’s five restaurants, all with stunning ocean views. This property was also the venue for the World Golf Awards 2024 & 2025.
NEXT by Savoy Signature (4⭐️): Perfect for tech-savvy travellers, NEXT offers a vibrant, connected experience with a rooftop pool and bar overlooking Funchal’s harbour. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to access both golf courses and the city’s attractions, ensuring a seamless blend of golf and urban exploration.
Pestana Casino Park (5⭐️): Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, this iconic hotel is adjacent to the Funchal cruise port and just a short drive from Palheiro Golf. Enjoy the casino, marina, and spa, or relax by the rooftop pool with panoramic ocean views. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore Funchal’s vibrant dining and cultural scene after your round.
Pestana Promenade (4⭐️): Situated just minutes from the beach and the Lido promenade, this 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms, a large outdoor pool, and a spa. The hotel’s location makes it easy to access both golf courses and Funchal’s vibrant dining and cultural scene. After a round at Palheiro Golf, you can stroll along the promenade or enjoy a relaxing evening by the pool.
📍 Santa Cruz (approx. 10min drive to Santo da Serra Golf Club, 20min to Palheiro Golf, 55min to Ponta do Pargo Golf):
Vila Galé Santa Cruz (4⭐️): Just 15 minutes from Santo da Serra, this all-inclusive, family-friendly resort sits on a picturesque beachfront. After your round, relax at the spa, enjoy a dip in the Olympic-sized pool, or savour local cuisine at one of the two restaurants.
📍 Calheta (approx. 20min drive to Ponta do Pargo Golf, 40min to Palheiro Golf, 50min to Santo da Serra Golf Club):
Saccharum by Savoy Signature (5⭐️): For those seeking a serene retreat after a day on the links, Saccharum is located in Calheta, known for its unique golden sand beaches (man-made), a modern marina, sugarcane production (rum & honey cake), and a rich heritage linked to the island's discoverer. This 5-star resort offers a rooftop infinity pool, a world-class spa, and direct beach access, making it ideal for relaxation and adventure alike. The hotel’s sugar cane-inspired design and stunning ocean views create a unique atmosphere for golfers looking to unwind.
Beyond the Course: Madeira’s essential experiences
Madeira is more than just golf, it’s a destination for adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Between rounds, explore the island’s highlights:
🏔️ Nature & Epic Landscapes:
Experience Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff, or the volcanic cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço.
Swim in the crystal-clear volcanic rock pools of Porto Moniz.
Explore exotic flora and panoramic views at the Botanical Gardens or Palheiro Gardens.
🥾 Hiking & Adventure:
Hike the stunning trail between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo for views above the clouds.
Discover the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest through historic Levada irrigation channel walks.
Head to the Funchal Marina for dolphin and whale watching boat tours.
🏛️ Culture & Heritage:
Wander through the Funchal Old Town, the colorful fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, or see the iconic thatched houses in Santana.
Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores for local produce or explore the USS Midway Museum.
🍹 Gastronomy & Local Flavors:
Sample the island’s famous fortified wine at historic Madeira Wine Lodges like Blandy’s.
Enjoy a glass of Poncha in the cobblestone streets of Funchal or dine at waterfront restaurants.
Ready to book your dream golf escape?
Madeira’s world-class courses and luxurious hotels are waiting. Pack your clubs and get ready for the golf holiday of a lifetime!
