Golf Courses

Tee Times Golf Courses – All things related to the golf courses. News, reviews, events and much more.

Golfing in the Azores: an Atlantic haven

Posted on by

Golfing in the Azores: perfect for golfers and nature lovers, as it boasts three exceptional courses and a variety of activities. Nature is on full display in the Azores, an archipelago in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean. The island’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity provide an unparalleled golfing in the Azores experience amidst breathtaking scenery. This destination is perfect for golfers and nature lovers, as it boasts three exceptional courses and a variety of activities. At Tee Times Golf Agency, we pride ourselves on offering exclusive packages, ensuring our guests enjoy this paradise at the highest level and feel privileged.

Reaching the Azores

Travelling to the Azores is an adventure that can be undertaken by air or sea. Major European and North American cities offer regular flights to the islands, with airlines like SATA Azores Airlines and TAP Air Portugal providing convenient routes to Ponta Delgada, the capital of São Miguel, and other islands. Alternatively, cruise ships frequently visit the archipelago, offering a picturesque journey through the Atlantic.

The Azores are celebrated for their awe-inspiring landscapes, from verdant hills to dramatic volcanic formations. On Santa Maria Island, visitors can unwind on warm white sand beaches and explore vineyards cascading down the slopes like giant staircases. São Miguel, the largest island, captivates with the stunning Sete Cidades and Fogo Lagoons, geysers, hot springs, and volcanic lakes. The Central Group—comprising Terceira, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, and Graciosa—presents a harmonious mix of history, culture, and natural wonders. The Azores enjoy a mild climate, making it a perfect year-round destination for golfing and other outdoor activities. Activities, like whale and dolphin watching, hiking, and savouring local specialities like São Jorge cheese, add to the allure.

Golfing in the Azores

The Azores boast three remarkable golf courses, each offering a unique combination of challenging play and scenic beauty. These courses are not just about the views but also about the thrill of the game, making them a must-visit for any golf fan.

Furnas Golf Course: nestled on São Miguel Island near the renowned Furnas Valley, the Furnas Golf Course is a testament to the island’s volcanic origins. Designed by Mackenzie Ross and later expanded by Cameron Powell, this 18-hole course features undulating fairways bordered by towering cryptomeria trees. Known for its Scottish character and superb greens, Furnas provides a British golfing experience in the Azores.

Batalha Golf Club: also on São Miguel, Batalha Golf Club offers 27 holes spread over 120 hectares of rolling hills with stunning ocean views. Designed by Cameron Powell, the course features wide fairways, expansive greens, and contoured bunkers. Each hole presents a unique challenge, with the 6th Tee of the B loop offering an especially memorable view. The clubhouse at Batalha is ideal for relaxing after a round or hosting special events.

Golfe da Ilha Terceira: located on Terceira Island, this golf course presents a par-72 layout extending over 6,332 yards. The fairways, lined with cryptomeria trees, and the challenging par-4 5th hole make this course a favourite among golfers. The club’s pro shop, stocked with a wide range of golf equipment, is a popular visitor stop.

Tailored golf packages by Tee Times Golf Agency

To experience the best golfing in the Azores, Tee Times Golf Agency offers customised packages that combine rounds at these stunning courses with comfortable accommodations and additional activities. Whether planning a week-long golfing vacation or a shorter getaway, Tee Times ensures an unforgettable experience in this Atlantic paradise.

With its natural beauty, diverse activities, and exceptional golf courses, the Azores are a unique destination for travellers seeking relaxation and adventure. Discover the enchantment of these islands and indulge in a golfing experience like no other.

Valderrama shines: the economic impact of LIV Golf Andalucía

Posted on by

The LIV Golf Andalucía at the Real Club Valderrama has once again underscored the immense potential of sporting events in boosting tourism and economic growth in Andalucía. The regional Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport, Arturo Bernal, highlighted in dialogue with ‘La Voz de Cádiz’ the tournament’s significant contribution to promoting Andalucía as a prime sports tourism destination. This year’s event is projected to generate an impressive economic impact of around €30 million, according to the Junta de Andalucía, a promising sign for the region’s financial future.

During the final day of the competition in San Roque, Cádiz, Bernal highlighted the significance of the Costa del Golf. This renowned destination gained iconic status following the 1997 Ryder Cup. He noted that the tournament showcases world-class golfing, is a powerful economic driver for the region, and is a superb platform for promoting sports tourism, reaching over 360 million viewers across 180 countries.

LIV Golf Andalucía: a premier global event

Bernal praised the LIV Golf Andalucía as one of the premier global sporting events, asserting that such prestigious tournaments rightly belong on the Costa del Golf in Andalucía. The region’s long-standing partnership with the Real Club Valderrama and the broader golf industry generates approximately €3 billion in revenue annually. Bernal assured the Andalusian government’s unwavering commitment to supporting major sporting events, a reassuring sign for the future of sports tourism in the region.

Alongside key figures such as Francisco Javier Ros Rodríguez, the Junta de Andalucía’s Deputy Delegate in the Campo de Gibraltar, and Tania Barcelona, the Regional Delegate for Tourism, Culture, and Sport in Cádiz, Bernal attended the tournament where Sergio García triumphed, winning in a thrilling playoff.

The Real Club Valderrama’s reputation

The Real Club Valderrama, with its exquisitely maintained fairways and challenging yet enjoyable 6356-meter par-71 course, is widely regarded as one of the finest golf courses in the world. Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course’s exceptional design and storied history make it the perfect destination for golfers of all skill levels. Its unique features, such as the iconic 17th hole, add to the allure of the course and the tournament.

Tee Times Golf Agency offers the best packages for those looking to play at this wonderful course and experience one of the finest golf designs in the world. Booking a package with Tee Times ensures a memorable golfing experience in one of Spain’s premier destinations.

Photos by: LIV Golf.

Estela Golf Club: a slice of Scotland in Portugal

Posted on by

Nestled along Portugal's breathtaking coastline, Estela Golf Club is a hidden gem that mirrors the essence of traditional Scottish links courses.

Nestled along Portugal’s breathtaking coastline close to Oporto, Estela Golf Club is a hidden gem that mirrors the essence of traditional Scottish links courses. Often referred to as “a piece of Scotland on Portuguese soil,” this exclusive golf club offers a unique and luxurious golfing experience that transports players to the rugged landscapes and challenging fairways reminiscent of British golf links.

Estela Golf Club is a meticulously crafted link course, a testament to the dedication to providing an incredible golfing experience. The course stretches over 3.5 kilometres of stunning Atlantic coastline over 62 hectares, featuring narrow fairways bordered by natural dunes and strategically placed hazards. The Atlantic breeze adds a layer of challenge and excitement. The firm, fast greens, made of Penncross Bentgrass, demand precision and skill, ensuring a fulfilling game for golfers of all levels.

Estela Golf Club: exclusivity and luxury

Estela Golf Club is one of Portugal’s most exclusive golf clubs, offering unparalleled privacy and luxury. With breathtaking ocean views, direct and private access to pristine beaches, and impeccable service, the club caters to golfers seeking an elite and tranquil environment. The clubhouse exudes elegance and comfort, offering traditional Portuguese cuisine that delights visitors after a rewarding round of golf.

The club’s layout and ambience closely mimic the historical courses of Scotland, providing golfers with an extraordinary experience that blends the best of both worlds. Every aspect of Estela Golf Club is exceptional, from the challenging dunes and undulating fairways to the scenic ocean vistas.

With 18 captivating and demanding holes spanning 6,148 meters, Estela Golf Club is a golfer’s paradise. The course’s design, by architect Duarte Sotto-Mayor, ensures a blend of beauty and golfing challenge. The fairways, covered with Tifton Bermuda grass, are narrow at the landing areas, demanding precision from the tee. Natural obstacles like dunes and lakes, combined with a few strategically placed bunkers, create a course that is as visually stunning as it is demanding, promising an adventure for every golfer.

Tee Times Golf Agency packages

For those looking to experience this Scottish gem in Portugal, Tee Times Golf Agency offers exceptional golf packages tailored to avid golfers’ desires. Whether you’re seeking a weekend escape or a large golfing holiday, we provide exclusive packages with access to Estela Golf Club, ensuring a seamless and memorable golfing experience.

As the world celebrates The Open Championship, there’s no better time to highlight Estela Golf Club, the most Scottish of Portugal’s golf courses. Its unique design, luxurious amenities, and unparalleled exclusivity make it a must-visit destination for golfers. Experience the magic of Estela Golf Club with Tee Times Golf Agency and discover a slice of Scotland on the stunning Portuguese coast.

Photos by: Estela Golf Club.