The Best Golf Courses in Madeira
Clube de Golf Santo da Serra
A standout on any Madeira golf holiday.
This 27-hole complex, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., has hosted the Madeira Islands Open. It combines tournament pedigree with dramatic scenery and clever routing.
Three 9-hole loops mean flexibility. But don't be fooledit's a proper test. Elevation changes, shifting winds, and well-protected greens keep you thinking.
Palheiro Golf Course
Set above Funchal, Palheiro is refined. Measured. Strategic.
Designed by Cabell B. Robinson, it winds through woodland with tree-lined fairways and immaculate greens. It's not about power. It's about placement.
For us, this is one of the most complete rounds on a Madeira golf holiday.
Porto Santo Golfe
Something different. And worth the effort.
Designed by Seve Ballesteros, this course sits on the nearby island of Porto Santo Golfe. The front nine plays like a links. Open, exposed, shaped by the wind. The back nine? Elevated, dramatic, unforgettable.
If you want variety, this is essential to your Madeira golf holiday itinerary.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in Madeira leans premium. Not flashy. Just well-executed.
You'll find a strong mix of boutique hotels, golf-friendly resorts, and self-catering options. Most are within easy reach of the courses, which keeps logistics simple.
Recommended options:
- Quinta Splendida Wellness & Botanical Gardens is peaceful, well-located, and ideal for golfers
- Vila Galé Santa Cruz Hotel is great for dining, nightlife, and central access
- Porto Santo stays perfect for combining beach and golf
If you're planning one of the best Madeira golf holidays, choosing the right base is key. We always advise prioritising proximity to your chosen courses.
Travel
Travel is straightforward.
- Direct flights from major UK airports
- Flight time: approx. 3 hours 45 minutes
- Airport to Funchal: 2030 minutes
Once you land, everything is close. Transfers are quick. Roads are good. You won't spend your trip in transit.
- For Porto Santo:
- 15-minute domestic flight
- Or 2.5-hour ferry
Both options are easy to build into your Madeira golf holiday.
When to Visit
One of Madeira's biggest advantages? Consistency.
You can play golf here all year without compromise.
Seasonal breakdown:
- Spring: Ideal conditions, fresh landscapes
- Summer: Warm, lively, great for groups
- Autumn: Excellent weather, fewer crowds
- Winter: Mild and very playable
For golfers researching Madeira golf packages, this flexibility makes planning far easier. No narrow booking window. No off-season drop-off.
Final Thoughts
A Madeira golf holiday is not about ticking boxes. It's about playing golf that feels different.
Three courses. Each with its own identity. A setting that elevates every round. And a destination that delivers, month after month.
If you want a golf trip that combines quality, consistency, and a bit of edge, Madeira is a strong choice.
And once you've been… you'll get it.
