The awards distinguish courses and destinations whose commitment to excellence in the face of adversity is inspiring. Portugal was also distinguished as the Best Golf Destination in Europe 2021.

Sean Moriarty, CEO of Quinta do Lago said: "It is with immense honour that we received this award from the World Golf Awards. It has been a challenging period, but having invested heavily in improving our golf course facilities at Quinta do Lago, we are truly proud to offer an exceptional golf experience and true quality of life to our residents and visitors. This award is of particular importance as Quinta do Lago's 50th year approaches in 2022".

The iconic South golf course, which has hosted the Portuguese Open eight times, has undergone a €7 million refurbishment, which began during the first period of lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Determined to take advantage of the course's unexpected closure to make it even better, the resort invested and saw sustainability as a priority throughout the project, with Quinta do Lago golf course superintendent Mark Tupling and his team working with the Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) Foundation and the local non-profit association VitaNativa to improve environmental management on golf courses.

“The investment we've made in the South course is worthy of a true European golf star, and the improvements made will help ensure that the course remains a favourite of everyone who plays it for years to come,” adds Sean Moriarty.