Tee Times

Palmares Ocean Living & Golf: a perfect blend of nature and luxury

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Palmares Ocean Living & Golf, located in the stunning Algarve region of Portugal, is a testament to visionary development, combining natural beauty with luxurious living. The history of Palmares is rich and varied, beginning in 1975 when a Portuguese family first established a golf course on the site. Over the years, the resort has evolved significantly. In 2001, Sonae, a major Portuguese company, acquired Palmares, and in 2003, it was purchased by Onyria Golf Resorts. The turning point came in 2017 when Kronos Homes and an international investment fund took over, marking the beginning of Palmares’ transformation into a premier resort. By the end of 2023, Arrow Global took the helm, further solidifying its status as a luxury destination.

Palmares Ocean: harmony between golf and nature

Palmares Ocean is uniquely positioned within a large natural amphitheatre, offering spectacular sea views from every resort corner. The development has been meticulously planned to ensure a low construction density, preserving the natural landscape and enhancing the harmony between the golf course and the ocean. The architecture is state-of-the-art, with strict construction parameters to protect sea views, allowing each villa or apartment to benefit from the stunning scenery. The resort includes a luxury beach, golf, and tourism area, featuring a 5-star boutique hotel, ensuring a comprehensive luxury living experience.

A golfer’s paradise

The Palmares Golf course is a masterpiece designed by the renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. It features three 9-hole courses that can be played in any sequence, providing a diverse golfing experience each time. With its parkland character, The Alvor course offers mature trees and beautiful views of the Monchique hills. The Lagos course features two lakes and transitions into expansive dune lands, while The Praia course offers a seaside landscape with dunes and a strong uphill par-5 closing hole. Opened in 2011, the course has matured beautifully, offering challenges and pleasures for international tournament players and casual golfers.

Al Sud Restaurant: a gastronomic delight

Nestled within the resort’s Clubhouse, Al Sud Restaurant is a fine dining establishment that has earned a Michelin star in 2023. The restaurant, helmed by the talented chef Louis Anjos, offers a gastronomic journey with stunning views over the Bay of Lagos and the Alvor Estuary. The elegant setting and innovative cuisine make Al Sud a destination in itself, where quality ingredients and creative dishes combine to provide an unforgettable dining experience.

Tee Times Golf Agency: your gateway to Algarve golf

For golf enthusiasts looking to explore the Algarve region, Tee Times Golf Agency offers comprehensive golf packages with access to the best courses in the area, including Palmares Golf. We provide tailored packages that cater to various needs, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable golfing holiday. Our expertise and local knowledge make us the perfect partner for planning a golf getaway in the stunning Algarve for those looking for the best Portugal golf holidays.

In summary, Palmares Ocean Living & Golf is a unique blend of natural beauty, luxurious living, and world-class golfing, offering a holistic and enriching experience for residents and visitors alike. Whether enjoying a round of golf on the stunning courses, indulging in a gourmet meal at Al Sud, or exploring the Algarve through Tee Times Golf Agency, Palmares promises a memorable and captivating experience.

Photos by: Palmares Ocean Living & Golf.

2024 US Open: golf’s biggest stars head to Pinehurst

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The US Open is just around the corner. Mark your calendars for June 13-16, 2024, as the legendary Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina is set to host this thrilling major tournament.

Pinehurst No. 2, a course that commands respect, is renowned for its challenging nature. Crafted by Donald Ross and enhanced by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, it’s famous for its demanding turtleback greens. These greens challenge even the most skilled players, requiring a masterful short game for a good score. With its sandy waste areas and minimal roughness, the course demands precision and strategic play.

US Open lineup

The lineup of players for the US Open is a testament to the tournament’s prestige. It mixes seasoned pros, past champions, and promising new talent. The competition to secure a spot in the US Open is fierce, with players earning their place through rankings, past performances, and regional tournaments. The spotlight will be on last year’s champion, Wyndham Clark, as he defends his title, the world number one Scottie Scheffler, Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy, and the legendary Tiger Woods.

Tiger Woods, a fifteen-time major champion, has accepted a special exemption to participate in the US Open. Woods, who has won this open thrice, last took home the trophy in 2008. His return adds even more excitement to an already star-studded event, as golf lovers are eager to see if the legendary golfer can recapture some of his past magic on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

For fans, the US Open is always a thrill. The coverage will be extensive, whether you’re lucky enough to be there in person or catch it on TV. Major sports networks and online streaming platforms will ensure you take advantage of every moment of the action.

In short, the 2024 US Open at Pinehurst No. 2 will be an epic showdown. With its challenging course and top-tier players, it’s set to be a highlight of the golfing year. Get ready for some unforgettable golf!

Photos by: US Open.

Severiano Ballesteros and his undying love for Portugal

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Severiano Ballesteros is celebrated as one of the greatest golfers of all time. Born on April 9, 1957, in Pedreña, Spain, Ballesteros’ influence on the sport transcends national boundaries, and his fondness for Portugal played a significant role in his illustrious career.

“Seve” first made his mark in Portugal at 17, when he competed professionally at the Estoril Golf Course, his first tournament out of Spain. This historic course, renowned for its challenging layout and picturesque scenery, was more than just a stage for Seve to showcase his talent and love for the game. It was a place that held a special place in his heart, a place that he always carried with him. In Estoril, a bond was formed, a love affair with Portugal that would endure throughout his life and career.

Severiano Ballesteros’ Portuguese designs

Ballesteros’ impact on Portuguese golf is not just significant; it’s monumental. He designed three prestigious golf courses in the country: Royal Óbidos, Quinta do Vale, and Porto Santo Golfe. These courses, each a testament to his skill and vision, have left an indelible mark on the Portuguese golfing landscape.

Royal Óbidos, Severiano Ballesteros’ final project, is a par-72 championship course that is a testament to his design philosophy. It offers a stern test for even the most accomplished golfers, with strategic water hazards and challenging shots that reflect Seve’s flair and creativity. With its elegant atmosphere, the modern clubhouse provides the perfect setting for players to reflect on their game. Like all of Seve’s designs, this course is not just a place to play golf but a place to experience the game in all its beauty and challenge.

Quinta do Vale, located near the Spanish border, is another testament to Seve’s design genius. This course features long holes, generous fairways, and complex greens, demanding precision and strategy from players. The hilly terrain adds a layer of difficulty, making it a favourite among those seeking a rigorous golfing challenge. The 15th hole is particularly memorable with its stunning view of the Guadiana River.

Porto Santo Golfe, spanning from beach dunes to basalt cliffs, epitomizes Seve’s vision of blending natural beauty with a challenging game. The club offers two distinct designs: the South Course, with its lakes, and the cliff-top North Course, which offers diverse playing experiences. The accompanying nine-hole pitch-and-putt course and driving range enhance its appeal. The clubhouse, harmoniously integrated into the landscape, exemplifies Seve’s dedication to environmental sustainability and aesthetic harmony.

All of them are part of the list of courses that we offer at Tee Times Golf Agency for those who wish to enjoy their Portugal golf holidays playing at the highest level.

Seve also contributed to the promotion of golf in Portugal through his company, Amen Corner, which organized the Algarve Open many times and the Madeira Open. Although he never won a tournament in Portugal, his presence and influence were deeply felt, and his affection for the country was reciprocated by golf enthusiasts.

Seve: an eternal champion

Severiano Ballesteros overcame numerous challenges throughout his career, securing three Open Championships (1979, 1984, 1988), two Masters titles (1980, 1983), five Ryder Cups, 50 European Tour titles, and countless other victories, accumulating 91 professional wins. 

He has also been named a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame, World Player of the Year (by Golf Digest), European Player of the Century, World Athlete Most Influential in Changing the Game, Lifetime Achievement Award, BBC Sports Personality Award and much more.

His charismatic playing style and relentless drive endeared him to fans worldwide, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of golfers.

In late 2006, Severiano Ballesteros announced his intent to join the senior tour but retired from professional golf in July 2007. His health began to decline following a brain tumour diagnosis in October 2008. Despite undergoing several surgeries, Seve passed away on May 7, 2011, at the age of 54. His legacy, a testament to his victories, course designs, and the lasting impact he had on the game of golf, continues to inspire and shape the future of the sport, as well as his special connection with Portugal. His legacy is not just a memory but a living, breathing force that continues to shape the world of golf.

Photo by: Daily Mail.