Alto Golf is situated near the picturesque village of Alvor. Extraordinary white sandy beaches, clear blue sea and fascinating cliffs are part of its charm. This was the last course designed by the legendary Sir Henry Cotton, the triple winner of the British Open. It embodies his belief that a golf course should test players with low handicaps, but also provide a pleasant game for golfers of only average level. After his death, the project was executed by Peter Dobereiner, a well-known golf journalist.

The course, with the beautiful Monchique Mountains as its backdrop, runs through two valleys, and offers winding fairways and gently undulating greens.

On the first nine holes players have the added pleasure of enjoying an excellent view over Lagos Bay. The last nine holes face inland, running through gentle mountain slopes to include hole number 16, which is said to be the longest hole in Europe: 604 meters for a par 5. Any player who manages a birdie here will receive a certificate, and his or her name will be inscribed on the club's roll of honor. All the other holes on the course are named, but this one has a special title: "The Giant".