As par 3’s go a very tricky little course. Had just undergone some maintenance so greens were very sandy. A little bit pricey for what it is but overall a really enjoyable 18 holes (went round twice) and ideal for beginners like my wife who played. Still testing on the short game for more experienced golfers.

The course is amazing! A real test of mid iron, short iron, wedges, chipping, putting. Play here enough and your skill can only improve. The greens matched the quality of the more famous courses in the Algarve where you pay 70 euros or more (maybe better). Manicured fairways and bunkers that would not be out of place on any local championship course. This place is looked after and who ever is in charge, knows what there doing. A real pleasure to play. My only negative is there is no 9 hole pricing option and 18 holes at around 30 euros may put some people off for a par 3 course, when 18 holes twilight is available at full length courses for a similar price. I do feel however the quality of the course you are getting pretty much matches the asking price. Here is a summary of the holes, distances from the back tees but second tee option available.The 1st hole eases you in, around 70 yards down hill. Good chance of a 3 if you find the putting surface.2nd hole was playing 170 yards with the miss being left, trees on the right. I didnt think there would be any holes this long! Mid or long iron or even a wood. A 3 here and youve done amazingily well.The 3rd hole is around 70 yards up hill, hows your wedge distance control?Cross the road onto a seperate bit of land for the next 2 holes. The 4th was playing 180 yards into wind! This is no pitch and putt. OB left and bunker greenside right. Hardest hole on course along side the 2nd.The 5th takes you back running along side the 4th, around 110 yards. OB left, the miss is right. Play to the left of the green and the ball feeds down into the centre of the green.Back over the road and a good chance of par on the 6th. A wedge down hill but there is trouble long.7 was playing 155 and you can only just see the top of the flag, great looking hole. The miss is left, lots of room. Anything right of the green will kick further right and feed into a hazard and likely be lost.The 8th is slightly up hill playing 140 yards. There is a large tree/shrub feature short right of the green, likely lost ball or unplayable. The miss is long and left.The closing hole is around 100 yards down hill to a mackenzie green, pin position was at the back of green on top tier. OB long.

Had a very enjoyable round at Balaia. Teamed up with 3 Swedish guys at the second hole and thoroughly enjoyed my day. The course was in good condition and looked lovely. Some challenging holes where par was unlikely but I had one birdie and a number of pars. There was also a few fives! Would recommend for any reasonable golfer.

A great short par 3 course, a little difficult to understand the transition from 1st green to second tee as green is not in line of vision. Friendly staff n restaurant a very enjoyable day and value for money