Praia D’El Rey and West Cliffs: Where Golf Meets the Atlantic’s Wild Beauty
- 11 hours ago
- 5 min read
The so-called “Silver Coast” of Portugal is a hidden gem where world-class golf, luxurious resorts and untamed landscapes come together in perfect harmony. Just an hour north of Lisbon, the coastal towns of Óbidos and Vau cradle some of Europe’s most breathtaking courses and exclusive retreats, inviting you to experience golf as it was meant to be: challenging, inspiring, and utterly unforgettable.
Here, the game is more than just a round, it’s a journey. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic links of Praia D’El Rey or the cliff-top thrills of West Cliffs, the region promises not only exceptional golf but also a chance to unwind in luxury resorts, explore medieval villages and savour the flavours of Portugal’s rich culinary heritage. So pack your clubs, leave the ordinary behind, and prepare for an escape where every moment is framed by the sea, the sky, and the spirit of adventure.
Tee Off in Style: The Silver Coast’s World-Class Golf Courses
⛳ Praia D’El Rey Golf Course📍Óbidos
Nestled between the Atlantic and a whispering pine forest, Praia D’El Rey is a masterpiece of links golf, consistently ranked among Europe’s finest. Designed by Cabell B. Robinson and inaugurated in 1997, this 18 holes, par 73 course weaves through undulating dunes and lush fairways, offering a thrilling mix of seaside links and parkland challenges. The back nine is particularly memorable, with holes hugging the shoreline and the ever-present ocean breeze testing your skill and strategy. The practice facilities are equally impressive, featuring a driving range, short game area, and a PGA-certified academy. Everything you need to sharpen your game before stepping onto the first tee.
🚗 Just a 10 minute drive away, slightly further north…
⛳ West Cliffs Golf Course 📍Vau
Perched on towering cliffs above the Atlantic, West Cliffs is a modern marvel, designed by Cynthia Dye and opened in 2017. This par 72 links course is a symphony of natural beauty and bold design, with every hole offering panoramic ocean views. The layout winds through wild dunes and native vegetation, creating a true links experience that’s as visually stunning as it is challenging. The signature 15th hole, played along the cliff’s edge, is a heart-stopping highlight, while the clubhouse and practice facilities reflect the commitment to excellence. West Cliffs isn’t just a course, it’s a statement, a place where golf and nature exist in perfect harmony.
Other Golf courses nearby:
Guardian Bom Sucesso (18 holes, Par 72, Donald Steel): A parkland course with lakes and rolling fairways.
Royal Óbidos (18 holes, Par 72, Seve Ballesteros): A links-style course with dramatic elevation changes.
Where to Stay: Luxury Resorts for Golfers and Nature Lovers
After a day on the fairways, retreat to one of the Silver Coast’s premier resorts, where comfort, style, and stunning settings await.
📍Location: Directly adjacent to Praia D’El Rey Golf Course
Overlooking the Atlantic and the championship golf course, the 5-star Praia D’El Rey Marriott is the epitome of coastal elegance. Its 177 rooms and suites are designed to maximize views of the ocean or the rolling fairways. The resort’s full-service spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and multiple dining venues, from casual beachfront eateries to refined restaurants, ensure every moment is indulgent. Whether you’re unwinding after a round or simply soaking in the sunset from your private balcony, the Marriott offers a seamless blend of comfort and sophistication, all just steps from the sand and the first tee.
📍Location: On the beach, 5 minutes by car from Praia D’El Rey Golf Course
For those who dream of waking up to the sound of waves, The Beachfront delivers direct access to the shore and a front-row seat to the Atlantic’s endless horizon. This 5-star collection of stylish apartments and townhouses combines modern luxury with the charm of a seaside escape. Oceanfront dining, private terraces, and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere make it ideal for couples and families alike. Here, the line between resort and nature blurs, inviting you to trade your golf shoes for barefoot walks along the beach at day’s end.
📍Location: 5 minutes by car to the Praia D’El Rey Golf Course
This resort offers apartments (4-star), villas and townhouses blending Portuguese tradition with modern comfort, set near the golf course or next to the beach. The Village by the Garden, near the clubhouse, features classic-style apartments and townhouses with a condominium pool. The Village by the Ocean provides contemporary beachfront apartments with pool access and seasonal amenities. Private villas, ideal for families and groups of friends, come with their own pools and scenic views.
📍Location: Adjacent to West Cliffs Golf Course
West Cliffs Resort presents an exclusive collection of private villas, townhouses, and premium apartments, each thoughtfully positioned just moments from the renowned West Cliffs Golf Course. The villas boast expansive terraces, private pools and luxurious finishes, offering an unparalleled connection to the dramatic Atlantic coastline and untouched natural beauty. Townhouses and apartments provide equally impressive comfort, with shared pools and breathtaking views over the Óbidos Lagoon and ocean horizon. Every accommodation is designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape, delivering a sustainable yet indulgent five-star retreat for those seeking both relaxation and inspiration.
Beyond the Fairways: Exploring the Silver Coast
The Silver Coast is more than just golf; it’s a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some must-visit attractions:
🏰 Óbidos: A medieval walled town, just 20 minutes from Praia D’El Rey, famous for its charming streets, castle, and annual chocolate festival.
🌊 Nazaré: A traditional fishing village, 30 minutes north, known for its giant waves, surf culture, and fresh seafood.
🚤 Peniche & Berlengas Islands: A 40-minute drive offers boat trips to the Berlengas Nature Reserve, a paradise for hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting.
🏖 Baleal Beach: A stunning peninsula with golden sands and world-class surfing, 25 minutes from West Cliffs.
🏛 Alcobaça Monastery: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, 30 minutes inland, showcasing Portugal’s rich history and architecture.
At Praia D’El Rey, the fairways dance with the Atlantic breeze, while West Cliffs challenges you from its dramatic cliffs. Two legendary courses, one unforgettable coast. Here, every round is a masterpiece, every stay a luxury, and every moment an invitation to explore Óbidos’ charm, Baleal’s beaches, and the wild beauty of Portugal’s Silver Coast. Pack your clubs and your sense of adventure, your perfect golf escape is waiting!
