Feel the Atlantic Ocean

Situated close to the lively seaside resort of Póvoa de Varzim and only 30 minutes from Porto in the north of Portugal, Estela Golf Club is a typical links course. Built over three kilometres of beautiful dunes, Estela Golf Club provides breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean.

A unique beauty

Several big lakes add to the beauty of Estela Golf Club, which can become quite challenging when the wind is blowing. With narrow fairways in the landing areas, all pressure is placed in the tee shot.

A competitive course

Inaccurate shots will be punished if they land in the sand dunes, and on almost every occasion a ball lands off the fairway there is little chance of reaching the green with a second shot. Just like in the traditional links courses, most shots at the greens are open, allowing the ball to enter them rolling. If you manage to get there without many detours, you will find firm and fast greens.

Details

Some holes at Estela Golf Club have wonderful views over the Atlantic Ocean and the mountains behind. The round starts gently, but quickly becomes challenging. Hole 3, a par 4, is 411 metres long and is considered the most difficult on the course. After that comes hole 4, the best opportunity to achieve good results. On this par 3, you have to hit over a valley onto an elevated green. Holes 6 to 9 place the highest demands on very accurate tee shots. These holes in particular are crucial for a good score.

Facing the elements

The second nine holes may not be as difficult as the first nine, but are still filled with challenges. For instance, the 10th hole is a par 4, dogleg at the left, with 373 metres but with an elevated green and well protected by bunkers that make it longer and harder.

The 13th hole, a par 5, must be played with the utmost respect. The fairway runs along the beach and turns suddenly to the left before descending to the green, and many players tend to take a short cut here and end up in the dunes. The last par 5, hole 15, is even more difficult to play, with winds that demand distance in the tee-shot and a great precision in the 2nd and 3rd shots.