The Algarve region has been named one of the top golfing destinations for retirees by the New York Times, following the results of a recent survey conducted by Ideal Living Magazine.

According to the survey, 50% of American retirees said they were seeking to move to a golf community or would like to live in a home with golfing nearby. These types of communities have consistently been top living choices for retirees, says analyst Scott Kauffman, who specialises in global golf developments.

“Whether they play golf or not, people who are about to retire or already retired love the idea of moving to a golf community because of the ample green spaces, which are like having your own private park,” he told the US newspaper.

The appeal also lies in the security and cachet of living in a well-maintained community with amenities such as a clubhouse, tennis courts, restaurants and a pool. Fortunately, the Algarve offers opportunities like these by the bucketload.

Golfers’ paradise

Among the eight destinations - some more established than others - identified by the New York Times, Portugal’s southernmost region was highlighted as a consistent go-to destination to invest in golf real estate.

According to Philip A. White Jr., president and chief executive of Sotheby’s International Realty and an avid golfer, the Algarve offers affordable cost of living, temperate climate year round and strong infrastructure for retirees.

With nearly 40 courses, mostly in golf communities, the region’s high density of courses makes it a “massively popular golfing destination”, says Patrick Bonnet, marketing director for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Portugal Properties. He adds: “You’re going to get a lot more per square metre for a residence than you would in other parts of Europe.”

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