A resort on Portugal’s Silver Coast has been named the country’s best golf destination in a new European ranking, signaling a shift in power away from the traditional strongholds of the Algarve.
Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort finished 10th overall in the latest standings from the Leading Courses website. The result makes it the highest-rated Portuguese venue in the poll’s 10-year history.
How the rankings work
Unlike traditional industry awards, this table is calculated using data from the people actually playing the courses. The ranking is driven by:
- Verified reviews from the global golfing community
- Comprehensive resort facility ratings
- Real-world customer feedback via Booking.com
The official view
Gonçalo Costa, director of golf at Praia D’El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort, said:
“This achievement reflects not only the quality of the product we deliver, but also the consistent alignment between our operational standards, service culture, and long-term vision.
“What makes this honour especially meaningful is that it is driven purely by verified golfer feedback across the whole resort and both golf courses – West Cliffs and Praia D’El Rey. Knowing that guest feedback of all supporting departments have placed us among Europe’s very best is something we are incredibly proud of.
“We remain fully committed to continuous improvement, innovation in the guest experience and the ongoing optimisation of our operational performance, ensuring that we not only maintain but continue to elevate our standards of excellence.”
To be recognised as the top-ranked venue in Portugal and the tenth best in Europe is a tremendous achievement for the entire team.
The 36-hole challenge
The resort is home to two distinct 18-hole courses which offer a contrasting experience for visiting players.
The Layout: Praia D’El Rey
Designed by Cabell B. Robinson, this 18-hole layout is a masterclass in variety.
It features deep bunkers and sloping greens that contrast sharply with lush fairways, weaving through pine forests before hitting the Atlantic dunes.
The Challenge: West Cliffs
Created by Cynthia Dye, the par-72 layout offers Atlantic views from every hole.
Note for golfers: West Cliffs is not a typical “easy” resort course. The 6,980-yard layout requires several long carries off the tee over natural coastal vegetation; picking the correct tee colours is essential for an enjoyable round.
The news follows a separate accolade for the resort’s hotel, which successfully defended its title as ‘Portugal’s Best Golf Hotel’ at the 2025 World Golf Awards.
