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

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.

Martim Pinto Johansen Shines at GreatGolf Junior Open

Portugal’s rising golf star, Martim Pinto Johansen, has started 2024 in style! The 14-year-old national champion claimed victory at the first-ever GreatGolf Junior Open by Fundação Luís Figo, held at Millennium Golf Course in Vilamoura. His excellent performance earned him the title and an exclusive invitation to compete at the Orlando International Amateur Junior in the United States.

With a two-round total of 138 strokes (-6), Martim was the only player to finish under par, showcasing his dominance with rounds of 71 and 67. Playing on his home turf as a Clube de Golfe de Vilamoura member, he secured the win by an impressive 13-stroke margin over Rodrigo Marques Santos.

This isn’t Martim’s first taste of international success. In 2023, he won the Amundi Evian Juniors Cup in France and finished runner-up at the Amendoeira World Kids Golf. Now, he’s heading to the United States for the first time—a dream come true. “I’ve always wanted to go to the US, but not just to visit—I wanted to play there and enjoy the experience,” said an excited Martim.

The tournament featured 41 young talents from 14 different national backgrounds, with exciting performances across multiple categories. Ethan Prybys Orton (Vila Sol) took the U-14 title, shooting +11 over two rounds. At the same time, Ricardo Castro Ferreira (Clube de Golf do Estoril) dominated the U-12 division, proving once again why he’s considered nearly unbeatable in Portugal.

Among the girls, Amélia Gabin was the standout player, finishing an impressive 5th overall and outperforming some of the top-ranked juniors in Portugal.

Beyond the competition, the tournament had a charitable impact, donating a percentage of sponsorship and entry fees to the Fundação Luís Figo, supporting young athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Tee Times Golf Agency was proud to be a tournament partner with the Federacao Portuguesa de Golf, Vilamoura Golf, Millenium Vilamoura, Titleist, Cosmos Sports Travel, Orlando Juniors, Norgolf, and Weasy. Other major players supporting the event as sponsors include Almas, Caetano Baviera, Cigala, PG Hotels & Resorts, RentAcceso, and Wyndham Residences Alvor Beach.

With an unforgettable start to the year, Martim and the other junior stars have set the tone for an exciting season ahead. Congratulations to all the GreatGolf Junior Open players!

More information: https://greatgolf.weasy.io/

Photos by: Daryl Gabin.

Finca Cortesin Leads the Way in Sustainable Golf, Reinforcing Spain’s Golf Excellence

Golf and sustainability go hand in hand at Finca Cortesin, one of Spain’s premier golf destinations and host of the 2023 Solheim Cup.Golf and sustainability go hand in hand at Finca Cortesin, one of Spain’s premier golf destinations and host of the 2023 Solheim Cup. The resort has once again set the standard for environmental stewardship with its groundbreaking Golf & Birds study, demonstrating that golf courses can serve as vital sanctuaries for biodiversity while maintaining world-class playing conditions.

Conducted between October 2022 and October 2023, the study focused on the migratory bird populations that rely on Finca Cortesin’s natural landscape. Located near the Strait of Gibraltar, a crucial migratory corridor between Europe and Africa, the resort welcomed 65 bird species and recorded nearly 4,000 individual sightings, including black kites, booted eagles, and peregrine falcons.

The research highlights Finca Cortesin’s commitment to sustainability, integrating advanced irrigation systems, pesticide-free maintenance, and native flora preservation to create a thriving ecosystem for wildlife. Their efforts enhance biodiversity and set a precedent for golf resorts worldwide to embrace environmentally responsible practices.

Finca Cortesin: prioritising environmental stewardship

At Tee Times Golf Agency, we recognise the importance of offering exceptional experiences while supporting sustainability initiatives across Spain’s golf destinations. Our extensive portfolio includes Finca Cortesin, designed by renowned architect Cabell Robinson, and other top golf courses prioritising environmental stewardship. Whether you’re seeking championship courses, luxurious resorts, or tailored golf packages, Tee Times ensures a seamless and unforgettable Spain golf holiday.

For more details on Finca Cortesin and its ongoing environmental sustainability plan, please visit www.fincacortesin.com.

Finca Cortesin’s initiative is an inspiring example of how golf and nature coexist harmoniously. By booking with Tee Times, you can access Spain’s finest courses that lead the way in sustainability and excellence. Join us in experiencing the best of Spanish golf while supporting environmentally responsible tourism.

Plan your next golf getaway today! Visit www.teetimes.pt for exclusive golf packages at Finca Cortesin and beyond.

Photos: Finca Cortesin.