Founded in 1972, Quinta do Lago is just a 20 minute drive from Faro airport and just under three hours flying time from most European capitals. The borders of Quinta do Lago include the Ria Formosa Natural Park and the Atlantic Ocean. Set in 2000 acres of rolling hills and pine woodlands it is without a doubt one of the most prestigious areas of the Algarve. It is an exclusive golf and residential estate and boasts no less than 4 golf courses (72 holes) with a further 36 holes, including the famous Ocean Course, at Vale do Lobo, which is just a 5 minute drive away. Golf was born in Quinta do Lago in 1974 with the inauguration of the A+B courses designed by William Mitchell and Joseph Lee. The first Portuguese Open took place in 1976 and was won by Salvador Balbuena from Spain.
Quinta do Lago is not just a heaven for golfers but because of its location by the Ria Formosa Natural Park, it is also a heaven for the rare species of fauna and flora which inhabit this area and therefore makes an excellent base for those wishing to explore the two nature trails near the resort.
The resort is basically just one main road with 6 roundabouts linking up the different complexes. There is no public transport so car hire is essential. The Quinta Shopping Centre is up market with plenty of designer stores, cafes & eateries and also has a big supermarket.
Many international superstars have made Quinta do Lago their home away from home and the resort is now one of the most expensive areas in Portugal for real estate. The late Ayrton Senna, who died in a fatal accident in 1994, has the Avenida Ayrton Senna named after him.
Along with some of the finest championship golf courses in Europe, Quinta do Lago also offers several other sporting activities like horse riding, tennis, clay pigeon shooting, deep water fishing and practically every kind of water sport.
The beach is extensive, over 2 miles of golden sand, with magnificent sand dunes and can be reached by crossing a long wooden walkway over the Ria Formosa.There are plenty of facilities on the beach, cafes, restaurants sun beds for rent, all kinds of water sports and lifeguards are on duty during the bathing season. It is also a blue flag beach.
Quinta do Lago, with it’s excellent facilities, home to some of the most striking and spectacular villas in Algarve is a unique destination and a symbol of quality.