Unmissable golf tournaments for 2024: secure your place now

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!

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

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.

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

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.