Golf

2025 reopening: Highgate’s vision to reshape hotel experience in the Algarve

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In an article published by Travel News, Alexandre Solleiro, CEO of Highgate Portugal, confirmed the closure and extensive remodelling of four hotels in the Algarve, with their reopening scheduled for April 2025. The hotels involved are Salgados Dunas Suites, Salgados Palace, Palm Village, and São Rafael Atlântico, the latter of which will rebrand under the Kimpton name. Solleiro emphasised the focus on improving the infrastructure and elevating the hotel experience in the Algarve and tourism offerings, primarily through luxury branding.

The renovation is set to begin in November 2024, after the hotels close in late October. Solleiro assured that all preparations are “100% guaranteed,” with approved budgets, finalised designs, and contracts signed. Furniture orders are already underway. This large-scale project aims to shift away from the all-inclusive model, repositioning the hotels for the upscale market. Solleiro highlighted the transformation of Palm Village and Dunas Suites into branded residences, which will “completely change the marketing of the complex.”

Hotel experience in the Algarve

Solleiro’s comments underline the importance of better infrastructure in attracting high-end tourists, stating that these changes will introduce “an interesting proposition for the luxury market.” He also mentioned that the rebranding of the Salgados hotels would cater to different luxury market segments, supported by a golf course and a conference centre, making the destination more appealing to various upscale tourism sectors.

Despite these closures, Solleiro expressed optimism for 2024, noting a 7% growth in RevPAR (Revenue per Available Room) even with partial closures due to renovations. He believes that the repositioning of the hotels will lead to “significant growth after reopening.” Additionally, Highgate is exploring further expansion opportunities in Portugal, with potential investments on the horizon for 2025.

This ambitious project demonstrates a commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure for the best Portugal golf holidays, particularly the hotel experience in the Algarve, setting a new standard for luxury hospitality in the region.

Photo by: Travel News.

Discover the Best Golf Experience in Costa Blanca

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Costa Blanca is a prime destination for golfers seeking the perfect blend of stunning landscapes and a world-class golfing experience. With its beautiful coastline, warm Mediterranean climate, and rich cultural heritage, the region offers an ideal setting for any golf holiday. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, Costa Blanca’s variety of golf courses promises a challenging and enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.

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The allure of Costa Blanca lies in its diverse selection of golf courses, each designed to showcase the natural beauty of the region. Golfers can enjoy rounds with stunning views of rolling hills, coastal scenery, and lush greenery. These courses are tailored to suit players of all abilities, offering a range of challenges that keep the game exciting while allowing for a memorable and scenic experience.

Costa Blanca’s exceptional climate makes it a standout destination for year-round golf. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, the region provides ideal playing conditions regardless of the season. Whether you prefer a sunny summer round or a quieter game in the mild off-season, the Mediterranean weather ensures that every golfing day is enjoyable.

Costa Blanca offers endless opportunities for golfers to customize their ideal getaway. Combine your rounds of golf with exploring charming local towns, enjoying Mediterranean cuisine, or simply relaxing by the coast. With personalized golf packages available, it’s easy to design the perfect holiday that balances sport, leisure, and relaxation in this stunning region.

Book your unforgettable golf holiday in Costa Blanca today with Tee Times Golf Agency!

Newsletter: Golfing in the Sun

 

Six Portugal’s designs compete for Europe’s Best Golf Course 2024 at the World Golf Awards

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Portugal’s golf courses are once again in the spotlight as candidates for the prestigious Europe’s Best Golf Course 2024, a distinction granted by the World Travel Awards. This year, six great golf destinations are contending for the title, showcasing the country’s continued excellence in golf and tourism. The 11th annual World Golf Awards Gala Ceremony will take place on the evening of November 22, 2024, at the Savoy Palace in Funchal, Madeira. Among the nominated courses, each one brings a unique blend of wild beauty and demanding play.

Best Golf Course 2024 candidates in detail

Club de Golfe Santo da Serra, with its stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and lush landscapes, stands out as one of Madeira’s most picturesque courses. Its reputation for challenging holes and its history of hosting European Tour events make it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.

Palheiro Golf, another gem in Madeira, is set amidst a lush garden estate. It offers both historical charm and sweeping views of Funchal Bay. Its elevated tees and undulating greens provide golfers with a mix of leisure and challenge.

Porto Santo Golfe, nestled on the serene island of Porto Santo, is a true coastal paradise. Crafted by the legendary Seve Ballesteros, this course marries striking coastal vistas with a layout that demands technical prowess, making it a dream destination for golfers seeking beauty and challenge.

Quinta do Lago (South Course), located in the Algarve, is renowned for its championship layout. Regularly ranked as one of Europe’s top golf courses, the South Course has hosted the Portuguese Open multiple times. It is lauded for its precision-demanding fairways and beautiful setting among lakes and pine trees.

Terras da Comporta (Dunas Golf Course) offers an untamed natural environment with rolling dunes and seaside charm. Designed by renowned architect David McLay Kidd, the course is noted for its environmental harmony and provides a serene yet challenging round of golf.

Finally, West Cliffs Golf Links is a relatively new addition to Portugal’s golfing landscape. The rugged, coastal terrain offers a dramatic backdrop to this challenging links-style course, which has earned accolades for its design and environmental stewardship.

These Portuguese contenders are up against some of Europe’s finest, including SSpain’sFinca Cortesin Golf Club and La Reserva de Sotogrande, as well as iconic Scottish courses like Carnoustie Golf Links and the Old Course at St. Andrews. You can find the complete list here.

Tee Times nomination

In addition to these exceptional courses, Tee Times Golf Agency is once again nominated for Europe’s Best Golf Tour Operator 2024. Established over 30 years ago, Tee Times has grown into one of the largest and most respected operators, specialising in golf tourism across Portugal, Spain, and beyond for the best golf holidays. The agency is a member of recognised associations such as the International Association of Golf Tour Operators and the Portuguese Association of Travel Agencies, ensuring top-tier service for its clients. Their commitment to excellence and passion for tourism and the best golf breaks continue to drive the company’s success, making them a key player in the industry. If you want, you can vote for Tee Times here.

As the November 22 ceremony approaches, the nominated for Europe’s Best Golf Course 2024 represent the best in Portuguese golf tourism, each deserving recognition for their contributions to the sport.