The Portuguese Golf Resort Merging Five-Star Luxury with a Sanctuary Vibe

A Memorable Return to Penha Longa

I had visited Penha Longa in the Sintra region of Portugal before, but it was over 20 years ago during a Wilson Golf press trip when I was an equipment editor. At that time, I was primarily focused on golf, and my memory of the resort was limited. However, when I returned this time, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the place. It was clear that the resort had undergone a significant transformation, or perhaps I hadn’t stayed there last time, or maybe my memory just wasn’t what it used to be. Regardless, after spending three nights at Penha Longa with my wife and daughter in July 2025, I doubt I’ll ever forget it.

One of the highlights of the trip was my first-ever Michelin-starred dining experience at LAB by Sergi Arola. The restaurant offered a unique and unforgettable culinary journey that left a lasting impression on my family.

Golfing at Penha Longa

The golf course at Penha Longa is a standout feature, particularly the Atlantic Championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jnr. I had played the course before, but this time I also got to experience the Monastery nine-holer, which I hadn’t played previously. The Monastery course started with a par-3 opener that surprised me with its difficulty. I managed to land on the green using a 6-iron in a three-club wind, which was impressive given the conditions.

The second hole was a long, tight dogleg left in a strong crosswind, followed by a steep climb to the green. While the challenges were evident, I managed to navigate them without too much trouble. The eighth hole was a par-3 that required a carry over water, and I successfully guessed that a 7-iron from 136 yards was the right choice.

The next morning, I was among the first to hit the Atlantic Championship course, which I thoroughly enjoyed. There’s a video on YouTube showing Robert Rock’s famous approach to the par-5 sixth hole, where his ball ricocheted off an ancient aqueduct and landed on the green for an eagle. My own experience was less fortunate, as my ball ended up in the lake, but I still managed to birdie the par-3 seventh hole on the other side of the aqueduct.

Beyond the final trio of holes, which included a down-and-up par 4, a near-200-yard drop hole, and a tempting closing par 5, the 11th hole stood out. It was a sharp dogleg right where the green seemed to wink at you over the trees and scrub. I found it tempting, but I stuck to the safe route and avoided any unnecessary risks.

Off-Course Experiences

Away from the fairways, Penha Longa offers a wealth of experiences. The resort has a rich monastic heritage that gives it a special retreat-like feel, even amidst five-star luxury. With an extra day on my schedule, I had the opportunity to explore every pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub, and plunge pool, as well as most of the resort’s historic sites and seven excellent restaurants.

Penha Longa Mercatto is a great spot for a casual meal, offering an Italian-inspired atmosphere with a conservatory feel and an extensive menu. It also serves breakfast, which my wife and daughter described as the best they’ve ever experienced.

Dining at LAB by Sergi Arola was a different level altogether. The restaurant provided a unique experience, starting with regional Portuguese specialities upstairs and a five-dish delight downstairs. The chocolate workshop was another highlight, where we learned to make our own chocolates. Although they didn’t set in time for us to take them home, my daughter was delighted to find them in her room later that day.

Additional Highlights

An afternoon trip to Lisbon added to the adventure, and the spa experiences were equally memorable. My wife and I enjoyed massages, while my daughter had an elaborate facial. The spa’s outdoor area featured a Jacuzzi and a lovely walk with stepping stones across ponds filled with turtles and tiny frogs.

Overall, Penha Longa provided a perfect blend of golf, relaxation, and fine dining that made the trip unforgettable. From the challenging courses to the luxurious amenities, every aspect of the resort contributed to a truly exceptional experience.