Portugal 'a world leader in golf tourism'

Portugal is one of the world's leading destinations in the market for golfing holidays, according to the Association of Independent Tour Operators.

A spokesman for the association said that one of the main advantages of Portugal for golf tourism is its number of courses and temperate climate.

He described the Algarve as "a particular favourite" and said that the area is home to one of the densest concentrations of high-quality golf courses in Europe.

"The area has developed an infrastructure to cater specifically for golfing enthusiasts – from dedicated staff handling golfing queries at hotels to shuttle bus services taking guests to courses," the Aito spokesman added.

Holidaymakers looking for a golf holiday that is more "off the beaten track" were advised to visit destinations such as Estoril and Sintra.

Portugal is home to nearly 70 high-quality golf courses, which have played host to some of Europe's top competitions. In 2007, the country won the International Association of Golf Tour Operators award.

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