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Thought of trying a Golfing
Break in North Portugal ...? by Stephen Rapicano
 Porto
and the Minho region, not the most likely of golf destinations you might
think, but think again. Superb golf courses, great hospitality, wonderful
scenery and perfect climate. Couple all this with the organisational skills
of our organiser, Peter Evens of Portgolf, and you have all the ingredients
for a perfect golf break.
Firstly to the golf courses,
Ponte De Lima GC. nestling in the hills a few miles from the eponymous
town you have a wonderfully presented course. Set among forests and lakes
each hole is varied and is a fair test of your golfing skills. Fantastic
views are available from almost everywhere and vineyards abound (which
is a constant reminder of the 19th). Then return to the friendly clubhouse
which offers an excellent selection of local cuisine and snacks to see
if you managed to play anywhere near your handicap!
Then onto Estela. We have
all played quite a few links courses in our time but Estela is exceptional.
Views of the Atlantic rollers crashing in on the adjacent sandy beaches,
the condition of the course and the local flora and fauna make for an unforgettable
experience, (seeing the head of your Driver detach itself from the shaft
and end up in the lake in front of the 14th is also something that will
take some time to forget).
Miramar is not quite on the
same level as the above two courses but certainly offers some respite,
especially if the local Vinho and Super Bock have taken their toll.
Peter, who surely has some
sort of military background, organised everything down to the last tee.
He was always on hand to smooth the way at hotels, golf courses and restaurants.
Taxis were waiting to move us from course to course and to take us to and
from restaurants - nothing is too much trouble for Peter and Portgolf.
On departure we were presented with a CD containing some memorable photos
that will remind us of a great trip.
I contacted Portgolf through
their website http://www.portgolf.com
and spoke to Peter Evens (00351 966618332) directly; and he called me back
to help plan our tour.
All in all Porto is a fantastic
golf destination and Peter will work with you to develop an itinerary to
suit your exact requirements.
Have a great trip!
Stephen Rapicano, Knole Park
G.C. (Sevenoaks Kent) (6 Golfers) May 2007
For accommodation in Portugal,
visit All Portugal Accommodation
Pousadas
of Portugal
About the Author
Stephen Rapicano is the MD
of CEC Europe Ltd and a keen golfer |
