The Algarve Tourism Association (ATA) has said the Portuguese region, voted Europe’s leading golf destination, is gearing up for a busy 2015 following an increase of more than 50,000 rounds played on its famous courses last year.

The ATA said that the Algarve’s success factors for this increase in golf activity continue to be its climate, multitude of flight connections to Faro airport from across Europe, the relaxed and friendly nature of its people, and great value for money.

A spokesperson for the ATA said: “We are delighted that so many more visitors enjoyed golf in the Algarve last year and had the opportunity to experience our distinct offering. We continue to work hard with our golf tourism industry to deliver exceptional levels of service to our guests, and to send them home with wonderful memories.”

The golf season in the Algarve stretches over several months, thanks to over 300 days of sunshine er year, and brings players from all over the world.