FOR the putting enthusiast, golf is not so much a hobby or a sport but a way of life. And one of the finest European locations for the golfer is the Algarve.

Known affectionately as Portugal's sunshine coast, the popular destination has been a hotspot for tourism since the 1960s and has recently invested in a network of quality golf courses.

The Algarve boasts more than 25 pitches within 100 miles of beautiful coastline and all of these are easily accessible within an hour-and-a-half drive from Faro International Airport.

The golf experience on the sunshine coast is characterised by unparalleled weather conditions - the Algarve enjoys more than 300 days of hot weather each year and glorious rays of sunshine illuminate the immaculate fairways and greens giving the experience an almost regal eminence.

The Portuguese tourist spot is suitably well equipped with a full range of golf lodgings to suit all budgets as well.

Accommodation on the Algarve ranges from exclusive golf villas to budget golf hotels and most come equipped with modern amenities and fantastic views of the greens and countryside.

One such holiday experience is offered at the Boavista Golf Resort, available through Algarve Select.

The Cheshire-based company is a specialist in tailor-made golf holidays in the Algarve and believes it has launched the perfect holiday package to keep every member of the family happy.

At the Boavista Golf Resort, near Lagos, the ethos is stay and play', meaning golf enthusiasts can venture to the green while other family members can play tennis or football or just spend some time by the pool or the beach.

The new 18-hole championship course at Boavista has already established an enviable reputation in the golfing community and it is reported that tee times are almost full for the busy March and October months so early bookings are strongly recommended whenever you choose to go.

Boavista Golf Resort benefits from a beautiful course landscaped from the land's natural features.

Additionally, you can expect on-site facilities including a restaurant and bar that offer a welcome break and refreshment to tired but happy golfers in the midst of their games.

In between games, holidaymakers are also recommended to take advantage of all there is to see and do in nearby Lagos - a cosmopolitan town that boasts a thriving atmosphere.

Further afield, the dramatic coastline just begs to be explored and plenty of unspoilt beaches are waiting to be discovered.

Lagos is also home to a wealth of Portuguese maritime history and Sagres and Cape St Vincent should be on your list of places to visit.

Inland, the fascinating fortress town of Silves and the breathtaking Monchique mountains are also not to be missed.

With golf holidays becoming more and more popular, travellers are recommended to research options online or at a travel agents for some great deals.

To book with Algarve Select visit www.algarveselect.com or call 0800 716136.