Visit Algarve

Unmissable golf tournaments for 2024: secure your place now

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Tee Times Golf Agency invites golf fans worldwide to experience four remarkable still available tournaments for 2024 in Portugal.Tee Times Golf Agency invites golf fans worldwide to experience four remarkable still available tournaments for 2024. Whether you seek friendly competition or a challenging test of your skills, these events offer an unparalleled opportunity to play on some of Portugal’s finest courses.

First up is the XXIV International Amateur Golf Tournament 2024 JJW, held from November 23rd to 30th at the prestigious San Lorenzo Golf Course. This celebrated tournament has been a highlight of the Algarve golf scene for 24 years, combining four rounds of competitive golf with five-star luxury. With a welcoming cocktail, signature buffet, and a week of relaxation, it’s an unforgettable experience in one of Europe’s top golf destinations.

Next, make sure to attend the East Algarve Golf Festival, which will take place from November 30th to December 7th. This wonderful week includes seven nights of accommodation, five rounds of golf across courses like Castro Marim, Benamor, and Monte Rei, and an immersive cultural experience. Enjoy exclusive events like Vila Galé Wine Tasting, a prize-giving dinner, and exceptional course conditions like free range balls and discounted buggies.

The XXXVI Grande Troféu Vilamoura is a must for those seeking tradition. Since 1987, this tournament has been one of Portugal’s most prestigious amateur events. Participants will compete across three Vilamoura golf courses in a 54-hole stroke play format, with categories for men and women. Join golfers worldwide and enjoy a friendly yet competitive atmosphere in the heart of the Algarve.

Finally, the 2nd Edition Sotavento Golf Trophy offers a unique experience from December 13th to 16th. Hosted at Monte Rei, Quinta da Ria, and Quinta do Vale, this Stableford tournament promises a thrilling competition with special prizes for the longest drive and nearest to the pin. The event includes a welcome cocktail and a prize-giving dinner at the renowned Monte Rei.

While spots for these four competitions are still available, it’s important to note that some of our top events, like the 7th Edition Tee Times Prestige Tournament, the Quinta do Lago Golden Tournament, and the West Algarve Golf Trophy, are already fully booked. Don’t miss your chance to be part of these exceptional tournaments for 2024!

Tee Times Golf Agency, established over 30 years ago by Carlos Ferreira, is one of the largest operators specialising in golf holidays in Portugal and Spain. Secure your place now and enjoy our finest golf experiences!

Golf impact: a booming billionaire industry fueling Portugal’s economy

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Golf impact: an article published last month by Diário de Notícias of Portugal, shows significant numbers for national economy.An article published last month by Diário de Notícias of Portugal, “Golf has an impact of four billion euros on the economy“, shows significant numbers, with figures revealing a doubling of its contribution since 2019, now reaching €4 billion. Under this context, the golf impact also supports the creation of 20,000 jobs. These insights, provided by the Conselho Nacional da Industria do Golfe (CNIG), are part of a finalised macroeconomic study. The reported amount includes direct golf course revenues and additional expenditures like buggy rentals, restaurants, hotels, vehicle rentals, and transfers.

Golf’s growth is closely tied to tourism, with 2023 seeing record indicators. Direct revenues grew by 4% from green fees alone, totalling €160 million. Foreign tourists represent 85% of all rounds, with the UK leading, followed by Sweden, Germany, and France. However, emerging markets like the US are slowly gaining ground, particularly in Lisbon, presenting significant opportunities for growth. CNIG’s president, Nuno Sepúlveda, notes, “The North American market continues to grow but still has a low presence.”

Golf impact and visitors

Despite the dominance of foreign players, local residents still contribute 15% of the rounds, especially in Porto, Lisbon, and the islands. Sepúlveda highlights the need to attract more players from the US, Canada, and Asia, stressing that many courses need updating, as “most of our courses are between 20 and 40 years old,” requiring renovation to meet the higher quality demands of these markets.

Another key issue raised is the need for government investment. “There’s little support, and, for example, in the PRR [Portugal’s Recovery and Resilience Plan], the word ‘golf’ is not even mentioned,” the president laments. He stresses the strategic importance of golf, which brings in “high-quality markets, with long stays outside peak seasons.”

Finally, water scarcity is a looming threat, especially in the Algarve. Some courses risk closure unless desalination processes and water-saving measures are accelerated. “We can’t rely solely on rain,” Sepúlveda warns, adding, “golf courses only account for 6% of water consumption in the Algarve, and we have made significant improvements in irrigation efficiency.”

The complete article about golf impact on Portugal’s economy can be read here.

Photo by: Visit Algarve.

Top golfers represented 11 prestigious Portuguese courses at the Open de Portugal

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The latest edition of the Open de Portugal showcased an impressive lineup of 15 Portuguese players representing 11 of the country's top golf clubs.The latest edition of the Open de Portugal, held at the prestigious Royal Óbidos Golf Course and part of the Challenge Tour calendar, showcased an impressive lineup of 15 Portuguese players representing 11 of the country’s top golf clubs. Their courses, including some of the most iconic in Portugal, play a crucial role in promoting golf nationwide and have been instrumental in developing local touch.

Pedro Lencart, representing Penina Golf Course, was among the standout players, while Pedro Almeida competed under the banner of Lisbon Sports Club. Vitor Lopes, from Golf Club Vilamoura, and Hugo Camelo Ferreira and Diogo Rocha, both from Club Golf Miramar, brought experience and skill to the tournament. Vasco Alves and Miguel Cardoso represented Oporto Golf Club, further showcasing the depth of Portuguese golfing talent.

Alexandre Abreu competed for Pinheiros Altos Golf Course, and Quinta do Lago was present with two of its finest, Tomás Bessa and Ricardo Santos. JM Franco de Sousa represented Estoril Golf Club, while Alfonso Oliveira and Joao Pereira showcased their gifts for Aroeira Golf Club. Pedro Figueiredo, a rising star, represented Dunas Terras da Comporta, and the talented Tomás Melo Gouveia played for San Lorenzo Golf Club. Notably, five players—Franco de Sousa, Cardoso, Rocha, Pereira, and Oliveira—are amateurs, highlighting the strength of Portugal’s golfing future.

These prestigious golf courses are part of Tee Times Golf Agency‘s extensive offerings, allowing golfers worldwide to experience the best Portugal golf holidays. Tee Times is renowned for crafting unique golf packages with access to these top-tier clubs, ensuring unforgettable golfing experiences.

Open de Portugal special celebration

This year, the Federação Portuguesa de Golfe celebrates its 75th anniversary, a milestone that marks its decades of tireless dedication to promoting golf throughout Portugal. The federation’s instrumental role in growing the sport, nurturing talent from the grassroots to professional stages, and organizing prestigious tournaments like the Open de Portugal is something every golf enthusiast should appreciate. Its efforts have helped elevate Portugal as a global golf destination, providing opportunities for both amateurs and professionals to excel on some of the finest courses in the world. As it commemorates this milestone, the federation continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of Portuguese golf.

Portugal was named the World’s Best Golf Destination last year at the World Golf Awards, reflecting the country’s exceptional golf landscape. This year, Tee Times Golf Agency is nominated for Best Tour Operator in Europe 2024 (you can vote here), further cementing its status as a leader in the golf tourism industry.

The Open de Portugal remains a cornerstone of European golf. It offers a thrilling competition that continues to inspire Portuguese golfers and elevate the sport’s history across the country.

Photo by: Rodrigo Gatinho (Federação Portuguesa de Golfe).