Tee Times

Masters of Design: How Iconic Golf Course Architects Elevated Portugal’s Tourism

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Portugal is widely recognised as the best golf and tourism destination in the world. Its picturesque landscapes, mild climate, and challenging courses attract enthusiasts from across the globe. Central to this growing popularity is the influence of world-renowned golf course architects, whose creativity and vision have transformed the Portuguese golfing landscape, solidifying Portugal’s reputation as a global leader in golf tourism.

Legendary architects such as Robert Trent Jones Jr., Sir Henry Cotton, and Jack Nicklaus have left indelible marks on Portugal’s golf heritage. Robert Trent Jones Jr. was celebrated for his artistic integration of natural landscapes as the acclaimed Troia Golf Course. Situated south of Lisbon, Troia offers golfers the thrilling experience of seaside play, seamlessly weaving through dunes and pine forests, showcasing Jones’ philosophy of environmental harmony and aesthetic excellence.

Sir Henry Cotton, a three-time Open Champion turned visionary architect, profoundly impacted Portugal with his iconic Penina Hotel & Golf Resort in the Algarve. Opened in 1966, Penina was Portugal’s first 18-hole course, instantly elevating the country’s global golfing prestige. Cotton’s innovative layout provided a blueprint for subsequent course designs, blending classic British golfing traditions with the vibrant Mediterranean environment.

Golf Course Architects Influence

Jack Nicklaus, perhaps the most famous golfer-turned-architect, has significantly influenced Portugal’s reputation for luxurious and strategically challenging courses. The Monte Rei Golf & Country Club in Algarve epitomises Nicklaus’ meticulous approach, combining precision golf strategies with the region’s natural beauty. His signature designs have attracted significant international tournaments and discerning golfers seeking courses that balance difficulty and elegance.

More recently, golf course architects like Rocky Roquemore and Arthur Hills have further enriched Portugal’s golfing scene. Their designs emphasise sustainability and environmental stewardship, ensuring courses such as Quinta da Marinha near Cascais and Oitavos Dunes provide challenging play while preserving the surrounding ecological habitats. New designers in Portugal include Sergio Garcia, who developed Torre at Terra das Comporta, and Ernie Els, the creative mind behind The Els Club Vilamoura.

Tee Times Golf Holidays have further enhanced Portugal’s golf tourism by offering comprehensive golf packages that combine play at premier courses with accommodations and personalised services. These packages allow golf players to enjoy Portugal’s best golfing experiences tailored to their preferences and needs to enjoy their holidays.

The legacy of these architects has undeniably positioned Portugal at the forefront of global golf tourism. Their collective contribution continues to shape Portugal’s golfing identity, drawing visitors eager to experience the country’s unique blend of innovation, natural splendour, and rich golfing.

Game Changer at Old Course Vilamoura: Trackman Technology Hits the Algarve

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When it comes to golf holidays, few places match the charm and innovation you’ll find at the Old Course Vilamoura, one of Tee Times‘ standout destinations. Always popular among golfers visiting Portugal, this legendary Algarve course just got even better thanks to its exciting new partnership with Trackman, the global leader in ball-tracking technology.

Here’s the deal: Old Course Vilamoura is now officially the first course in the Algarve to roll out Trackman’s state-of-the-art tech, changing the way you practice, play, and even compete. Whether you’re working on your swing at the driving range (the largest in Portugal, by the way, with 20 spacious bays) or virtually teeing off from iconic holes using advanced golf simulators, Trackman has you covered.

This innovative partnership, guided by DETAILS (the team behind some of Portugal’s coolest hospitality and sports venues), means golfers get precision feedback on every swing—rain or shine, day or night. The best part? It’s totally free for all guests. Add to that personalised service, welcome gifts, and refreshing snacks throughout the round, and you’ve got a golfing experience that’s genuinely next-level.

Cutting edge at Old Course Vilamoura

Nuno Sepulveda, Co-CEO at DETAILS, sums it up perfectly: “We’re always looking to push the boundaries and keep Vilamoura at the cutting edge of golf. With Trackman, we’re offering golfers the chance to have fun, sharpen their game, and experience our courses virtually from anywhere in the world.”

This fabulous tech addition is just one highlight of Old Course Vilamoura’s impressive recent makeover, including a stylish new clubhouse that blends modern luxury with classic Algarve charm. Sustainability has also been front and centre, with eco-friendly irrigation systems, drought-tolerant grass varieties, energy-efficient Hydropresser stations, and electric-powered equipment reducing the environmental impact.

Ready to hit the greens? Tee Times Golf Holidays invites you to experience the upgraded Old Course Vilamoura firsthand—where technology meets tradition and sustainability meets superb service. Pack your clubs, bring your friends, and prepare for a golf holiday with the best packages that set a new standard for fun, innovation, and unforgettable memories in the Algarve.

Photo: My Golf Way.

Andalucía Costa del Sol Open de España 2025

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Spanish Golfers Shine

Spanish golf is in the spotlight at the Andalucía Costa del Sol Open de España 2025, as some of the country’s top female players compete in the season-ending event of the Ladies European Tour (LET). With the tournament’s prestigious history and strong Spanish representation, this year’s edition is shaping up to be a thrilling battle for the title.

Leading the charge are Carlota Ciganda and Fátima Fernández Cano, who have surged to the top of the leaderboard. At the halfway stage, Ciganda leads at eight under par, closely followed by Fernández Cano at seven under par, as both look to cap off the season with a major victory.

With two rounds remaining, Spain’s top female golfers are well-positioned to secure victory in this highly competitive tournament, which serves as the grand finale of the LET season.

Carlota Ciganda’s Flawless Round

A bogey-free second round has placed Carlota Ciganda in the lead, thanks to an impressive scorecard featuring:

  • Four birdies
  • One eagle
  • Zero bogeys

Her consistent and aggressive play has made her the clear favorite heading into the final rounds. A victory here would mark another major achievement in her already decorated career.

Fátima Fernández Cano Keeps the Pressure On

Not far behind, Fátima Fernández Cano has also delivered a strong performance. She sits just one stroke back at seven under par, maintaining steady form throughout the tournament.

Her ability to stay composed under pressure will be key as she challenges Ciganda for the title.

Spanish Golfers Shine in the LET Season Finale

The Andalucía Costa del Sol Open de España has long been a stage for Spain’s top female golfers, and this year is no exception. With multiple Spanish players performing well, this event highlights the depth of talent in Spanish women’s golf.

A win for Ciganda or Fernández Cano would add another homegrown champion to the tournament’s history, reinforcing Spain’s dominance in women’s professional golf.

Looking Ahead to the Final Rounds

With two rounds left to play, the Andalucía Costa del Sol Open de España promises an exciting conclusion. Ciganda and Fernández Cano will need to maintain their momentum as they compete against an elite international field.

For golf fans, this is an opportunity to witness Spanish golf at its finest in a premier event on home soil.

Inspired by Spain’s top talent? Plan your next golf getaway and experience world-class courses in stunning locations across the country.

Source: elperiodigolf.madridiario.es