Penha Longa Atlantic Course Review
The Penha Longa Atlantic Course in Sintra is one of Portugal’s most historic European Tour venues. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and integrated into the Penha Longa Resort (a 14th-century monastery converted to luxury hotel), it hosted the Estoril Open de Portugal for multiple seasons.
Course at a Glance
- Architect: Robert Trent Jones Jr.
- Holes: 18, par 72
- Tournament heritage: Estoril Open (European Tour, multiple editions)
- Location: Sintra (hills outside Lisbon)
- Distance from Lisbon Airport: 30-40 minutes
What Makes Penha Longa Special
The course sits at altitude in the Sintra hills — cooler and greener than coastal Lisbon courses, with sweeping views toward the Atlantic and the Sintra Mountains. Trent Jones Jr.’s design uses elevation changes dramatically, with holes climbing and descending through woodland and stone outcrops.
The resort itself is a major draw — the converted monastery, restaurants and spa create a complete getaway experience. Many visiting golfers stay at Penha Longa for the entire trip, combining 2-3 rounds with Sintra sightseeing.
For the Visiting Golfer
Penha Longa works best as:
- A premium round during a Lisbon visit
- A weekend or short-break destination (golf + spa + Sintra UNESCO sites)
- A test of strategic course management — accuracy matters more than length
Practical notes: book 2-3 weeks ahead. Sintra weather can differ from coastal Cascais — slightly cooler and more atmospheric. Pair golf with visits to Palácio da Pena or Quinta da Regaleira.
Related Pages
More courses in Lisboa
- Beloura Pestana Golf Resort (18 holes, par 72)
- C. N. F. Golfe do Jamor (9 holes, par 35)
- Clube de Golfe da Quinta da Marinha (18 holes, par 71)
- Estoril – Blue Course (18 holes, par 69)
- Lisbon Sports Club (18 holes, par 69)
➡️ See all golf courses in Lisboa.