Natural masterpiece: the allure of Oitavos Dunes Golf Course

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and close to Lisbon lies a golfing gem epitomising the marriage of natural beauty and masterful design: Oitavos Dunes Golf Course. Crafted by the reputable Arthur Hills and unveiled to golfers in 2001, this par 71 course stands as a testament to Hills’ prowess in seamlessly integrating the course with its surroundings while offering an exhilarating challenge to players of all levels.

As one of the premier offerings from Tee Times Golf Agency for those looking for their best golf holiday experiences, Oitavos Dunes promises an unparalleled journey through Portugal’s golfing paradise. 

From the moment golfers set foot on the meticulously maintained greens of Oitavos Dunes, they are treated to a visual feast of rolling fairways, imposing sand dunes, and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. The course’s name pays homage to its distinctive feature – the natural sand dunes punctuating the landscape, providing aesthetic allure and strategic intrigue.

Oitavos Dunes distinguishes itself not only through its stunning vistas but also through its commitment to environmental stewardship. As the first golf course in Europe to be awarded the prestigious Audubon Gold Certificate, Oitavos sets a gold standard in sustainability, harmonising the thrill of the game with respect for the natural habitat.

Golfers embarking on a round at Oitavos Dunes are met with a diverse array of thrilling challenges, from navigating the undulating terrain to strategising around well-placed bunkers and the occasional winds that sweep in from the ocean surrounded by the splendour of nature at its most awe-inspiring.

The international acclaim bestowed upon Oitavos Dunes is a testament and a guarantee of its status as a world-class golf destination. It proudly stands as the lone Portuguese course to grace the illustrious Top 100 Golf Courses of the World list by Golf Magazine, with enduring appeal and universal acclaim within the golfing community.

For those seeking an exclusive and unforgettable golfing experience with Tee Times Golf Agency in Portugal, Oitavos Dunes beckons with its unparalleled blend of natural beauty, architectural brilliance, and environmental stewardship. Whether drawn to the challenge of the links-style play or simply yearning to immerse oneself in the serenity of nature, Oitavos Dunes stands ready to create lasting memories for golfers from around the globe.

The best golf tournaments of the season await with Tee Times

Tee Times Golf Agency is gearing up for a thrilling year of golf tournaments in 2024, showcasing some of the finest courses and competitions Portugal and Spain offer. With various events catering to golfers of all levels, the calendar is set to deliver excitement and camaraderie on the greens. We invite you to click on the name of each tournament for more information. Let’s take a closer look at the lineup.

Golf tournaments calendar

25/05 | XXXIII Sir Henry Cotton Trophy 2024

The XXXIII Sir Henry Cotton Trophy is one of our most important golf tournaments, paying homage to the golf pioneer who laid the foundation for the sport in the Algarve. Held at the iconic Penina Hotel & Golf Resort, this team event promises one day of thrilling competition amidst the lush surroundings of the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course. With its par 73 layout and breathtaking vistas, players are in for an unforgettable experience.

25/05 – 01/06 | 1st Border Cup 2024

Crossing frontiers, the 1st Border Cup brings together golf enthusiasts from Portugal and Spain at the scenic Vila Galé Isla Canela Hotel. With four rounds of golf intertwined with delightful wine tasting, this tournament fosters friendly rivalry and cultural exchange against the stunning backdrop of the Algarve.

27/05 – 31/05 | 1st Edition Cabanas Golf Week

Embrace a week of golfing bliss during the inaugural Cabanas Golf Week. Set against the luxurious AP Cabanas Beach & Nature Hotel backdrop, participants will traverse four distinct courses over four days, each offering unique challenges and charms. From better-ball stableford to modified scramble, every day promises a fresh golfing adventure.

02/06 – 05/06 | 1st Monte Rei Invitational Tournament 2024

Prepare for a lavish golfing retreat at the 1st Monte Rei Invitational Tournament. With four nights of luxury accommodation and three rounds of golf at the renowned Monte Rei Golf & Country Club, players will indulge in top-tier hospitality and competitive golf amidst stunning surroundings.

20/11 – 23/11 | 7th Edition Tee Times Prestige Tournament 2024

Experience the epitome of golfing prestige at the 7th Edition Tee Times Prestige Tournament. Over three days, players will tackle the formidable layouts of Monte Rei North, Quinta do Lago North, and Quinta do Lago Laranjal, showcasing the Algarve’s finest golfing gems.

23/11 – 30/11 | Quinta do Lago Golden Tournament 2024

Gild your golfing journey with the Quinta do Lago Golden Tournament, a five-day extravaganza of golf, camaraderie, and celebration. With a blend of individual and pair competitions across three stunning courses, participants will vie for coveted prizes while basking in Quinta do Lago’s renowned hospitality.

24/11 – 29/11 | XXIV International Amateur Golf Tournament 2024 

Elevate your golfing prowess at the XXIV International Amateur Golf Tournament, where the San Lorenzo golf course sets the stage for a week of unparalleled competition and luxury. Immerse yourself in five-star indulgence amidst the Algarve’s scenic splendour.

30/11 – 07/12 | East Algarve Golf Festival 2024

Rounding off the year is the East Algarve Golf Festival, offering a comprehensive package of accommodation, dining, and golf across five spectacular courses. From Castro Marim to Quinta do Vale, this week-long extravaganza promises golfing bliss in the heart of the Algarve.

08/12 – 11/12 | 2nd Edition Sotavento Golf Trophy

Lastly, make sure to attend the 2nd Edition Sotavento Golf Trophy, where Monte Rei, Quinta da Ria, and Quinta do Vale unite for a thrilling Stableford competition. With special prizes and captivating courses, this tournament is a fitting finale to a year of golfing sensation.

Join Tee Times Golf Agency for an unforgettable journey through the fairways and greens of Portugal and Spain for your best breaks, where every swing tells a story, and the best golf tournaments leave a memorable mark on each golfer.

Nuno Sepúlveda: ready to tee up the Conselho Nacional da Indústria do Golfe’s potential

Nuno Sepúlveda, the recently elected president of the Conselho Nacional da Indústria do Golfe (CNIG) of Portugal for the term 2024-2027, lays out his plans to address water issues, VAT concerns, the return of major tournaments, and the lack of comprehensive data on the golf industry’s economic and social impact. He also discusses the optimal utilisation of the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR) over the next three years. He promises a mandate where the diversity of its members is presented as a cohesive strength.

At Tee Times Golf Agency, we are enthusiastic about his future management and everything that can be done for the best of golf in Portugal.

Nuno Sepúlveda Portuguese golf overview

In a comprehensive interview with Golf Tattoo, Sepúlveda underscores the importance of inclusivity, aiming to assemble a diverse team within the CNIG. This team will comprise individuals with extensive but not excessive experience in golf, representing various facets of the sport across Portugal. He highlights the need for representation from different golf realities, seeking a harmonised organisational approach that values every member’s contribution.

One significant aspect underlined is the collaborative spirit within the CNIG and its alignment with other key entities, such as the Federação Portuguesa de Golfe (FPG) and the Tourism Confederation of Portugal. Sepúlveda emphasises the necessity of joint efforts in addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities, underscoring the importance of unified action for the collective benefit of the golf industry. This collaborative approach ensures every stakeholder has a voice and role in the industry’s future.

The interview sheds light on several critical areas of focus for the CNIG in the coming years:

1. Water management and bureaucratic streamlining: Nuno Sepúlveda underscores the need for efficient water management practices and calls for streamlining bureaucratic processes to address water-related challenges effectively.

2. VAT reform: the discussion around Value Added Tax (IVA) reform emerges as an essential agenda item. The CNIG is advocating for potential restructuring of VAT to better align with the unique characteristics of the golf industry, such as its seasonal nature and significant capital investments. This could include proposals for reduced rates during off-peak seasons or exemptions for certain types of golf-related services.

3. Revival of major events: Sepúlveda emphasises the significance of bringing back major golf events to Portugal, recognising their positive impact on tourism and the local economy.

4. Data-driven decision-making: he underscores the importance of accurate and up-to-date data in informing decision-making processes within the golf industry, particularly in resource management and marketing strategies.

5. Collaborative initiatives: the CNIG aims to foster collaborative initiatives with various stakeholders, including professional associations like the PGA of Portugal, to drive growth and development in the golf sector.

6. Investment in research and development: Sepúlveda highlights the importance of investing in research and development, partnering with accredited entities to support the advancement of the golf industry in Portugal.

In conclusion, Nuno Sepúlveda outlines a comprehensive agenda to navigate the challenges and seize opportunities within the Portuguese golf industry over the next three years. By fostering collaboration, embracing diversity, and leveraging data-driven strategies, the CNIG aims to unlock the full potential of the golf industry, ensuring its sustained growth and resilience in the years to come.

Photo by: IT Frame/Publituris