Review by Paul Davies, November 2006

The clubhouse, built in 2000, is stunning, comfortable and 2000 feet above sea level. It offers spectacular views over the mountains, valleys, nearby islands and dramatic coastline.

There are three 9 hole courses to choose from, Machico – 3014m, Desertas – 3078m & Serras – 2911m. Each course drops away dramatically from the clubhouse, which also means that there is a very steep climb from the 7th tees to the 9th greens.

The Machico & Desertas courses offer stunning views of the coastline and islands. All the holes offer a challenge and are not for the faint hearted. The 2nd on Machico has a huge ravine right in front of the tee and demands a carry of around 180 yards. The 4th on Machico is the most spectacular par 3 I have ever played. It's bounded on three sides by a ravine – almost a sheer drop, so you can't be short or long. The green overlooks the town of Machico, some 1500 feet below you.

 

 

 

The Serras course is slightly flatter but no less dramatic, offering fantastic views across the mountains.

This is one of the best courses I have ever played and would recommend it to any golfer going to Madeira.