The 18 Holes have been laid out over level ground and provide and with the exception of the eleventh and twelve that take the player around and over a lake, it is open fairways for the player with very few trees to present difficulties. It is a course that can be likened to some degree to the challenges that are provided by a Links course. However, there are many water hazards with strategically placed bunkers in open terrain. These factors combined with the occasional strong wind make for an interesting round.

Although Laguna is probably the least popular of Vilamoura's five excellent courses, it's also the most affordable and we think it provides a really good test of golf. Designed by Joseph Lee, who also created the wonderful San Lorenzo course, it provides a stark contrast to its neighbours, in that it's a lot more open and has plenty of water hazards, as well as 88 shrewdly placed bunkers. While the sand and water make the course quite visually intimidating, in reality it can be enjoyed by golfers of all abilities. Give it a try.

Designer: Joseph Lee
Fairways: Bermuda Tifton 328
Greens: Penncross bent
Par: 72
Length: 6707