For me it's still 'The Grande Dame' of Algarve courses - The Old Course at Vilamoura. Granted I'm yet to play in the States, and I havn't played the Old Course in the last 5 years (not making much of a case at the moment). However, those of you lucky enough to have played, will know the class and sheer quality of the place. It's not the most spectacular course in the world, or even the Algarve, but you know you're somewhere special as soon as you drive up to the club house. Friendly staff, who didnt even mind my dad in his cricket spikes (they put soft spikes in for free) or the fact that his divot went further than his ball on the first tee - the starter simply smiled and said ''I'm sure it will get better'' (it didnt) and the picturesque course has always been in immaculate condition when I've played.

Favourite Hole - 4th S.I. 15. Short par 3 over a pond and tree. Not a tough hole as the hazards are more psychological than anything else. However, it looks good and I hit the flag in my first round there.

Toughest hole -  8th S.I. 1. Only 420 yards, until you realise you're abroad and its 420 metres (460 yards). All slightly uphill. A tight drive made even tighter if you drove like I did on that day. The treeline leads you towards a bunker on the left with not much hope of reaching the green if you find it.

If you're in the Algarve it's a must play!

If you know of anywhere better we would love to hear about it.

Oli - MJGA