Portugal Golf Holidays

Terras da Comporta: The Torre Course by Sergio Garcia opens in 2025

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Portugal has long been hailed as the premier golf destination in the world, and The Torre Course developed by Vanguard Properties is poised to reinforce this reputation. Situated an hour south of Lisbon, the course boasts stunning natural sandy terrain designed to blend seamlessly with its environment. 

Azalea Public Relations recently interviewed golf legend Sergio Garcia, who eagerly anticipates the grand unveiling of his first major golf course design project. Excitement is being built for The Torre Course at Terras da Comporta, which is set to open in Portugal next summer. Garcia’s involvement marks a significant milestone, as this par-72 layout will be his first complete design responsibility. The Spaniard’s vision underscores sustainable methods, ensuring the course harmonises with the breathtaking landscapes and nearby pristine beaches of Comporta.

“The site is located in striking scenery, just a couple of kilometres from the stunning beaches of Comporta, and the land has all the ingredients for a spectacular golf course. It’s an attractive spot for a golf course, and we’re building it using the best sustainable methods,” said Garcia.

The Torre Course design

The Torre Course, measuring 6,575 meters from the back tees, promises a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. Garcia has crafted a mix of risk-and-reward holes featuring tight fairways and small greens. “We have tried to fit the course as naturally as possible into the landscape to give the guests the feeling that the holes were shaped together with the surroundings by time. Players will find large, sandy waste bunkers along the not-too-overly wide fairways.”

Rodrigo Ulrich, Director of Golf at Terras da Comporta, echoed Garcia’s enthusiasm. “It’s been an amazing first year for The Dunas Course, and we’re expecting people to be just as excited when they see The Torre Course.”

The grand unveiling of The Torre Course coincides with The Dunas Course continuing to garner global recognition, recently being acclaimed as the top golf course in Portugal by Leading Courses. This prestigious accolade underscores the exceptional design, surroundings, maintenance, and hospitality Terras da Comporta offers, assuring golf enthusiasts of an unparalleled experience.

Tee Times Golf Agency presents extraordinary golf and tourism packages for those looking for the ultimate Portugal golf holidays. These offers grant access to world-class courses like The Torre and The Dunas, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience in the world’s finest golf destination. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, Portugal promises top-notch play amidst awe-inspiring scenery and luxurious accommodations.

It will be the turn to inaugurate The Torre Course next year. And one thing is evident: golf in Portugal does not stop growing. 

 

Photos by: Azalea Public Relations.

IAGTO Awards 2024: recognising the best in European golf tourism

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The 24th edition of the exclusive annual IAGTO Awards, focusing on the European and African sectors, was recently announced at the IAGTO European Convention (IEC) in Malaga, Spain. These prestigious distinctions, determined by the votes of the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) members, honour the exceptional service provided by golf courses, resorts, inbound operators, and golf destinations over the past Year. The 2024 recipients, including Madrid, Cadiz, La Cala Resort, and Dom Pedro Vilamoura Golf, come from Spain, Morocco, Northern Ireland, Bulgaria, Portugal, Greece, and Scotland.

During the Opening Address of the IEC, Peter Walton, Chief Executive of IAGTO, proudly announced the ten winners of these highly esteemed awards. Walton stated, “Golf tour operators responsible for 90% of all international golf tourism organised travel have once again focused worldwide attention on a handful of suppliers and destinations that delivered the best possible experience to their golf travelling clients over the past 12 months.” This global recognition underscores the influence and reach of the IAGTO Awards.

Madrid, Golf Destination of the Year European (City).

The Asia Pacific Awards were revealed in March, and the awards for North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean will be announced in June.

For over three decades, Tee Times Golf Agency has been a key player in offering the best golf and tourism packages for those seeking exceptional Portugal and Spain golf holidays. As a long-standing partner of IAGTO, Tee Times has played an active role in promoting golf tourism, contributing significantly to the industry.

La Cala Resort, Golf Resort of the Year for Spain.

IAGTO Awards winners of the year

We are thrilled to acknowledge this Year’s award winners, who are among our premier golf destinations: Madrid, as European City Golf Destination of the Year, known for its world-class golf courses and vibrant city life; Cadiz, as Southern European Golf Destination of the Year, renowned for its stunning coastal views and challenging golf courses; La Cala Resort, as Golf Resort of the Year for Spain, offering a unique combination of luxury and natural beauty; and Dom Pedro Vilamoura Golf, as Golf Resort of the Year for Portugal, a golfer’s paradise with its championship courses and top-notch facilities.

Dom Pedro Vilamoura Golf, Resort of the Year for Portugal.

Cádiz, Golf Destination of the Year for Central & Southern Europe.

Tee Times Golf Agency extends its congratulations to all the winners of the IAGTO Awards 2024 and expresses its sincere gratitude for their continued collaboration. We look forward to our ongoing partnership in providing outstanding services for golf enthusiasts worldwide.

Photos by: © IAGTO – Peter Ellegard

Associação Portuguesa de Greenkeepers: Tiago Piano elected president

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The Associação Portuguesa de Greenkeepers (APG) has announced its new leadership for the next four years. Leading the team is Tiago Piano, a seasoned professional with a strong background in team management, planning, and budgeting, currently serving as the Golf Course Superintendent at Belas Clube de Campo. Nuno Teixeira will assist him, bringing his expertise as the vice president and Miguel Grosso as the treasurer. This capable team is committed to upholding the APG’s mission of promoting excellence and sustainability in golf course maintenance across Portugal.

Tiago Piano’s appointment as the new president of the Associação Portuguesa de Greenkeepers marks a significant step in the association’s journey. With his extensive experience in managing golf course operations and ensuring high standards of maintenance and sustainability, he is well-equipped to lead the APG in advancing its objectives. These include providing comprehensive technical information, training, and networking opportunities to its members. The Associação Portuguesa de Greenkeepers aims to create a synergistic environment that benefits the golf course maintenance industry by fostering communication among members, sponsors, and partners.

In 2023, Portugal was honoured as the world’s best golf destination, a testament to its greenkeepers’ hard work and dedication. This prestigious recognition highlights the exceptional quality of Portuguese golf courses chosen by golfers from around the globe for their Portugal golf holidays. The award underscores the vital role greenkeepers play in maintaining these world-class courses, ensuring they meet the high standards expected by international visitors.

The Associação Portuguesa de Greenkeepers and sustainability 

One of the APG’s primary focuses is championing sustainability within the golf course maintenance industry. Recognizing the pivotal role of greenkeepers in implementing eco-friendly practices, the APG advocates for efficient water resource management to prevent waste and promote sustainable irrigation systems, particularly in water-scarce areas. Moreover, the association promotes using organic fertilizers and integrated pest management techniques to reduce reliance on harmful chemicals. These initiatives protect local ecosystems and foster biodiversity on golf courses, demonstrating the APG’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Furthermore, the Associação Portuguesa de Greenkeepers is dedicated to continuously educating its members on sustainable practices. By staying informed about the latest advancements and methodologies, greenkeepers can ensure that golf courses offer a high-quality experience while preserving the environment. This commitment to education and sustainability reflects the APG’s goal of harmonizing sports and environmental stewardship.

The APG’s dedication to excellence is also evident in the achievements of its members on the international stage. Recently, Portuguese greenkeepers represented the association at the prestigious Wells Fargo Championship, one of the eight signature events of the PGA Tour this year. Congratulations to Tiago Lobato and Luís Andrés Pinto for showcasing Portuguese greenkeepers’ high standards and skills at such a prominent event.

Under Tiago Piano’s leadership, the Associação Portuguesa de Greenkeepers is well-positioned to continue promoting sustainable practices and professional excellence in golf course maintenance, ensuring that Portugal remains at the forefront of the golf industry.