San Lorenzo occupies a distinctive stretch of coastal terrain within the Ria Formosa Natural Park near Almancil in Portugal's Algarve region. American architect Joe Lee routed the course in the late 1980s across a landscape that transitions from pine-covered dunes to salt marsh and tidal estuary, creating a rare parkland-links hybrid character uncommon in southern Portugal. The design takes full advantage of the protected wetland setting, with several holes playing directly along the water's edge and others framed by umbrella pines and Mediterranean vegetation. The routing is particularly noted for its sequence of holes bordering the Ria Formosa, where tidal channels and marsh grasses come into play and views extend across the lagoon system toward the Atlantic barrier islands. Lee's design incorporates strategic bunkering and water hazards that demand accurate approach play, while the relatively flat terrain allows for walkable golf despite the length from the back tees. The course has maintained a reputation as one of the Algarve's more challenging and scenically varied layouts since opening. San Lorenzo operates as part of a resort property and has historically been accessible primarily to resort guests and members, though access policies have evolved over the years. The combination of environmental setting within a protected nature reserve and the integration of water features throughout the routing distinguishes it from the many clifftop and inland courses that populate the Algarve golf corridor.