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Portugal continues to shine on the global luxury stage, with Condé Nast Johansens selecting more than 40 standout hotels and wellness spaces across the country for its latest annual guide.

From the north to the Algarve and across the islands of Madeira and the Azores, the list shows a destination that combines elegance, authenticity, and a strong sense of place. Portugal is in second place in the world in terms of the number of suggestions; only the United Kingdom is ahead, which clearly shows that the country is becoming more appealing to travellers who know what they want.

The chosen places include 33 high-end hotels in some of Portugal’s best areas. Lisbon and the Tagus Valley are in the lead, with 15 suggested places, such as restaurants and wellness centres. The Palácio Estoril Hotel Golf & Wellness is a very famous name because it combines history with a focus on health. It’s a place where old-fashioned warmth and modern comfort come together, making it a good choice for people who care about both ambience and comfort.

Further south, the Alentejo adds a quieter, more soulful layer to the list, with four hotels that are praised for their character and connection to the landscape. Next is the Algarve, where high-end living is the main focus. Condé Nast Johansens gave a special “gold star” to the Tivoli group, which is part of Minor Hotels, recognising the hotels: Tivoli Carvoeiro, Marina Vilamoura, and Alvor. In addition, Serenity – The Art of Well Being at Pine Cliffs Resort was honoured for its spa offering, reinforcing the Algarve’s image as a destination where relaxation and refinement go hand in hand.

The islands also play a key role in this luxury trip. In the Azores, both located on São Miguel Island, Solar dos Cantos Botanic House & Garden and the iconic Terra Nostra Garden Hotel were chosen, highlighting a blend of nature, tradition, and understated elegance. In Madeira, five luxury hotels won recommendations, confirming the island’s long-standing reputation for timeless hospitality and natural beauty.

This recognition from Condé Nast Johansens is more than a list of names. It is a powerful statement about Portugal as a destination that provides emotion, quality, and memorable experiences. Whether it is a seaside resort, a historic palace hotel, or a tranquil island retreat, each location offers something that goes beyond accommodation. Our Portugal golf holidays collection shows the possibilities for those planning a fancy getaway with great golf courses close by.

Portugal has once again captured the hearts of golf lovers worldwide, being named the “Best Golf Destination in the World” at the 12th edition of the World Golf Awards 2025.

Announced on 13 November, this honour also confirms Portugal as the “Best Golf Destination in Europe” for the fourth consecutive year, highlighting why golfers keep returning to its sun-drenched fairways for their golf holidays.

With 89 golf courses spread across seven regions, including the Algarve, Lisbon, Porto, and the North, Portugal offers something truly special for every golfer. Every round offers a unique experience, ranging from challenging championship layouts to scenic coastal holes.

Portugal’s success goes beyond exceptional courses. The country is committed to sustainable golf tourism, embracing efficient water use, energy conservation, recycling, and reducing plastics. These practices guarantee the preservation of Portugal’s unique landscapes and natural resources for future generations of golfers.

Industry professionals, media, and golf enthusiasts vote for the World Golf Awards, which honour destinations that consistently deliver excellence. Portugal’s recognition reflects not only the quality of its courses but also the care, innovation, and passion behind every round.

The Amendoeira Golf Resort has once again brought international recognition to the Algarve, being named “Regional Winner – Golf Course” at the World Luxury Travel Awards 2025. The ceremony, held on 25 October, marked the second time the resort has earned this prestigious honour, confirming its reputation for quality, innovation, and world-class golf experiences.

The award was received by the resort’s owner, Eng. António José Parreira Afonso, and João Fernandes, the General Manager and former President of the Algarve Tourism Board. Together, they represent a vision of growth that blends hospitality, sport, and sustainability, values that have positioned Amendoeira as a leader in golf and tourism.

Located in Alcantarilha, within the Silves municipality, Amendoeira Golf Resort offers two acclaimed 18-hole courses, the Faldo Course, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, and the O’Connor Jnr. Course, as well as a floodlit 9-hole Academy Course, tennis and padel courts, football facilities, and premium accommodation in apartments and villas.

Since being acquired by the Rolear Group in 2023, the resort has continued to expand its global profile. Under the leadership of Parreira Afonso and João Fernandes, Amendoeira has pursued an ambitious strategy focused on quality, sustainability, and the long-term development of golf tourism in the Algarve.

Their work is already paying off. The resort not only hosts major professional and amateur tournaments but also organises the World Kids Golf by Amendoeira Golf Resort, a flagship junior event that attracts players aged 7 to 18 from across Europe. The tournament has become a key platform for young golfers and is recognised as one of the most important junior competitions in Europe. The 2026 edition is expected to double participation, further strengthening the resort’s global visibility.

This recognition by the World Luxury Travel Awards underlines Amendoeira’s role in elevating Portugal’s standing as one of the world’s leading golf destinations. Beyond its award-winning facilities, the resort continues to prioritise sustainable operations, from course maintenance and water management to energy efficiency and environmental preservation.

Speaking after the award, Eng. António José Parreira Afonso expressed his pride:

“This distinction reflects the dedication of our entire team, who work every day to create memorable experiences for our guests and players.”

João Fernandes added,

“Our ambition is to be recognised not only for the beauty of our courses but for the consistency between service, maintenance, and sustainability.”

Amendoeira’s renewed success comes as part of a broader year of triumphs for Portugal at the World Travel Awards 2025, where the Algarve reaffirmed its place as Europe’s premier golf and luxury destination. Among other winners were Pine Cliffs Resort Residence, Hotel Quinta do Lago, Vila Vita Parc, and Conrad Algarve, each showcasing the region’s continued excellence in hospitality and leisure.

From its championship courses to its innovative junior events, Amendoeira Golf Resort stands as a model for the future of golf tourism in Portugal, a destination where sport, sustainability, and hospitality come together in perfect balance.