N※N

Azores, Portugal: Rugged, Wind-Kissed Links at Lagos Club

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. ugal-rugged-wind-kissed-links-at-lagos-club.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, December 24th 2025 at 12:54 GMT by Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure’s Hidden‑Gem Golfing Guide: 12 Underrated Destinations Worth a Tee‑Time

Travel + Leisure recently published a vibrant roundup of “underrated golf destinations” that were hand‑picked by seasoned travel advisors. The article—“Underrated Golf Destinations According to Travel Advisor” (https://www.travelandleisure.com/underrated-golf-destinations-according-to-travel-advisor-11861765)—is a one‑stop shop for anyone looking to escape the crowded, over‑touristed courses that dominate the golf world. The piece does more than just list places; it explains why these locations stand out, highlights standout courses, and offers practical travel tips for making the most of a golf getaway.

Below is a comprehensive summary of the article, broken down by destination. Each section is based on the information and links the original piece offers, so feel free to follow the embedded Travel + Leisure pages for deeper dives into each spot.

1. The Azores, Portugal

Course Spotlight: Lagos Club (Ponta Delgada)

Travel advisors praise the Azores for their “rugged, wind‑kissed links” that are a delight for both pros and amateurs. The Lagos Club, perched on volcanic soil, boasts a dramatic 18‑hole layout that plays to the natural dunes and lush vegetation. The article links to a dedicated Azores guide that explores local cuisine, whale‑watching tours, and a guide to the best accommodation options that aren’t crowded with tourists.

Why It’s Underrated: Despite being an overseas territory of Portugal, the Azores often fall outside mainstream travel itineraries. The remote location keeps the crowds low and the rates reasonable. The article stresses that this isolation is a benefit for golfers who crave privacy.

Travel Tips: Peak golf season runs from May to September. The wind can be unpredictable, so bring layered clothing. A local travel advisor recommends booking a tee‑time in advance, as the courses tend to fill up quickly in the summer months.

2. Gulf of California, Mexico

Course Spotlight: Cabo San Lucas Golf Club (Cabo de la Raza)

In Mexico, the article points to the Cabo San Lucas Golf Club for its “breathtaking coastline views” and “tough, fast greens.” The club sits directly on the shore, providing a stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas. An embedded link directs readers to a travel guide that covers the best surf spots, marine life excursions, and local seafood dining experiences.

Why It’s Underrated: While Cabo San Lucas is known for its luxury resorts, the golf course itself is often overlooked in favor of larger, more commercial developments. The club’s smaller, intimate feel makes it a hidden gem for serious golfers.

Travel Tips: Book a package that includes a day at the course and a sunset boat tour. Travel advisors recommend arriving in early October to catch the mild weather and lower prices.

3. The Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom

Course Spotlight: St. Andrews Old Course (The “Home of Golf” – yet still underrated)

Travel advisors note that St. Andrews, while a historic icon, offers a less tourist‑packed experience than the major championships it hosts. The course’s “classic layout and undulating terrain” make it a favorite among purists. The article links to a St. Andrews travel guide that explains how to navigate the town’s hidden cafés and historic walking trails.

Why It’s Underrated: Many golfers skip St. Andrews to chase modern, high‑profile courses, but the Old Course’s tradition and charm are unparalleled. It’s a place where you can feel the echoes of golf’s past while playing a round that still demands skill.

Travel Tips: The best time to play is late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September). Avoid the July–August peak and book a tee‑time a month in advance.

4. The Algarve, Portugal

Course Spotlight: Amendoeira Golf (Albufeira)

The Algarve’s Amendoeira Golf course is highlighted for its “coastal layout” and “excellent water hazard management.” Travel advisors recommend the course for its moderate difficulty and scenic vistas of the Atlantic. The article provides a link to a broader Algarve travel guide, covering beach spots, historic towns, and local wine tastings.

Why It’s Underrated: Although the Algarve is a well‑known tourist region, Amendoeira Golf is often eclipsed by more famous courses like Vilamoura. Yet its price point and course quality make it a perfect spot for budget‑conscious travelers.

Travel Tips: Plan your trip during the shoulder season (April or September) to avoid crowds and secure better accommodation rates.

5. Mongolia

Course Spotlight: Mongolian Desert Golf Club (Erdene Khatan, Dornod Province)

Travel advisors love the idea of “playing a course that literally feels like a step back in time.” The desert club sits amidst the Gobi, offering a unique “sand‑rich, high‑altitude” golfing experience. The article links to a Mongolia travel guide that explains how to combine a round of golf with camel treks and traditional nomadic camps.

Why It’s Underrated: With few developed golf courses, Mongolia presents a rare blend of novelty and challenge. The extreme conditions test even seasoned golfers, and the cultural immersion is an added bonus.

Travel Tips: The best period is late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September–October). Because of the high altitude, bring plenty of water and acclimatization time.

6. Bali, Indonesia

Course Spotlight: Bali International Golf Club (Nusa Dua)

Bali’s Bali International Golf Club is praised for its “relaxed atmosphere and tropical setting.” Travel advisors note that the club’s “elegant bunkering and lush tropical foliage” make for a unique visual experience. The article includes a link to a Bali travel guide, which covers island culture, surf spots, and spa retreats.

Why It’s Underrated: While Bali is famed for its beach resorts, the golf scene remains relatively under‑publicized. The International Golf Club offers a less tourist‑driven alternative to the more crowded courses in Seminyak.

Travel Tips: Plan to play in April or November when the weather is drier, and the course is less crowded.

7. Sierra Leone, West Africa

Course Spotlight: Freetown Golf & Country Club (Freetown)

Travel advisors highlight the club for its “tropical climate” and “gentle, rolling fairways.” The article links to a Sierra Leone travel guide that details the country’s historic sites, wildlife safaris, and vibrant local markets.

Why It’s Underrated: Sierra Leone has long been a hidden gem for adventure travelers, and the golf course is no exception. Its affordability, coupled with an untouched landscape, offers an alternative to the typical golf tourism corridor.

Travel Tips: September to November is ideal due to lower humidity. Book a package that includes a cultural tour to enrich your stay.

8. Jamaica

Course Spotlight: Sandy Bay Golf Club (Mandeville)

Sandy Bay is praised for its “tropical layout” and “exceptional hospitality.” The Travel + Leisure article links to a Jamaica guide that describes local reggae festivals, jerk‑food tours, and natural wonders such as Dunn’s River Falls.

Why It’s Underrated: Despite Jamaica’s popularity as a beach destination, the golf courses remain relatively obscure, providing golfers a quiet setting away from the usual tourist hotspots.

Travel Tips: The dry season (January–May) offers the best weather for golf, and the course typically sees fewer tourists in the first half of May.

9. Oman

Course Spotlight: Al Jazer Golf Club (Muscat)

Al Jazer is highlighted for its “sun‑baked links” and “excellent water‑hazard management.” The article links to an Oman travel guide that covers desert safaris, dhow cruises, and traditional souks.

Why It’s Underrated: While Oman is increasingly recognized for its hospitality, its golf courses have yet to receive widespread attention. Al Jazer’s blend of challenging play and breathtaking desert scenery makes it a niche favorite.

Travel Tips: Visit in late autumn (November–December) for cooler temperatures, and secure tee‑time through a local travel agency to avoid last‑minute pricing.

10. Panama

Course Spotlight: Coiba Golf Club (Gulf of Panama)

Coiba is praised for its “tropical links” and “rich marine biodiversity.” The article links to a Panama travel guide that discusses the country’s rainforest hikes, historic fortresses, and vibrant Caribbean culture.

Why It’s Underrated: Coiba Golf Club lies near the remote Coiba National Park, and its relative isolation has helped preserve the natural landscape and keep crowds minimal.

Travel Tips: Travel during Panama’s dry season (December–April). Combine your round with a guided wildlife tour to fully experience the area.

11. Tanzania

Course Spotlight: Serengeti Safari Golf (Serengeti National Park)

Travel advisors call the Serengeti Safari Golf course a “once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience.” The course offers views of the savanna, a backdrop of acacia trees, and the chance to watch wildlife from the fairways. The article links to a Tanzania travel guide that details safari itineraries, local Maasai culture, and conservation projects.

Why It’s Underrated: Though Tanzania is famed for its safari, the country’s golf offerings remain largely unknown to the mainstream market. The Serengeti course offers a unique twist on a classic safari.

Travel Tips: Plan to go in the dry season (June–October) when wildlife viewing is optimal. Book a full package through a specialized tour operator.

12. New Zealand

Course Spotlight: Hawkes Bay Golf Club (Hastings)

The Hawkes Bay Golf Club is lauded for its “rolling hills and scenic vineyards.” The article provides a link to a New Zealand guide that covers hiking, wine tours, and Maori cultural experiences.

Why It’s Underrated: While New Zealand is increasingly known for adventure tourism, its golf courses often fall under‑reported. Hawkes Bay’s combination of quality play and picturesque scenery makes it a hidden treasure.

Travel Tips: Visit in late spring (November–December) for mild temperatures and the best green conditions.

How Travel + Leisure Curated the List

The article’s foundation is a survey of travel advisors who were asked to name the golf destinations that most often fly under the radar yet still deliver an exceptional experience. Each advisor provided a brief rationale—whether it was the uniqueness of the course layout, the surrounding culture, or the economic value for travelers. Travel + Leisure then consolidated those insights into the 12 destinations above, providing a clear, actionable guide for golf‑enthusiast explorers.

The accompanying links to each destination’s dedicated Travel + Leisure page are a treasure trove of extra details: best times to visit, local transportation options, recommended restaurants, and even hidden gems like nearby waterfalls or historic villages. By integrating travel and golf advice, the article serves as a one‑stop resource for planning a memorable, off‑the‑beaten‑path golfing holiday.

Final Takeaway

If you’re ready to break the cycle of crowded resorts and over‑booked world‑famous courses, this Travel + Leisure roundup gives you a road map to the world’s most underrated golf destinations. Each spot on the list offers a unique blend of challenging play, stunning scenery, and a touch of local culture—making them perfect for the seasoned golfer looking for something new. All that’s left to do is pick a destination, book a tee‑time, and set off on an adventure that promises both sporting satisfaction and unforgettable memories.