In response to this demand a large number of golf courses have been inaugurated in various countries, including Portugal. Portugal, with its pleasant climate, has made large investments in this type of infrastructure and today is one of the world’s most attractive golf destinations with over 85 courses. IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators) named COSTA DO ESTORIL - LISBON GOLF COAST the GOLF DESTINATION OF THE YEAR - EUROPE in 2007, after having awarded the prize for ESTABLISHED GOLF DESTINATION OF THE YEAR to the Algarve in 2006 and to COSTA DO ESTORIL - LISBON GOLF COAST in 2003.

Portugal hosts three events on the PGA EUROPEAN TOUR, the most important of which is the PORTUGAL MASTERS, with prize money of EUR 3,000,000.

Two Portuguese golf courses are listed among the best 100 in the world, according to GOLF DIGEST classifications – with San Lorenzo in 39th and Vilamoura Old Course in 84th place.

During the winter season when cold and snow close many courses in Europe, more than 400,000 golfers head happily for Portugal.