NAU Sao Rafael Suites

A five-minute walk from São Rafael Beach, NAU São Rafael Suites makes an easy Algarve base for golfers who want the sea close by and their rounds organised without fuss. This five-star, all-inclusive resort in Albufeira works particularly well for groups, with golf at Salgados, Morgado and Álamos and complimentary transfers to each course included in selected golf packages. Between tee times, there are three outdoor pools, a heated indoor pool and gardens or sea views from the private balconies of all 105 suites. Albufeira itself is 3.1 miles away, close enough for an evening beyond the resort while keeping the beachside setting intact.

The three courses provide properly different days out. Salgados is the coastal round, shaped around dunes and marshland that support wildfowl, with water in play often enough to make positioning from the tee matter. Morgado heads inland through valleys, woodland and river corridors, with the Monchique Mountains visible beyond the fairways. Opened in 2003, it has settled well into its surroundings and has the more open feel of the three. Álamos is tighter and more demanding, with its own views towards the Serra de Monchique and a layout that rewards controlled approach play. The Morgado Golf Academy provides the practice facilities for both inland courses, useful before a first round or when settling a friendly match.

Suites give travelling parties room to spread out. The 60 square metre one-bedroom suites include two bathrooms, a sitting room and dining table for four, while the 90 square metre two-bedroom option accommodates up to five adults and has dining for six. The Garden handles breakfast, lunch and dinner as part of the all-inclusive routine, and Tascaria São Rafael serves Portuguese dishes from Wednesday to Sunday evenings. For a quieter spell after golf, the Wellness Hub has a jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, treatment rooms and yoga alongside the indoor pool. Faro Airport is around 45 minutes away by road.