Golf Courses

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

Espiche Golf: a sustainable and exclusive golfing jewel in the Algarve

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Espiche Golf, one of the finest destinations offered by Tee Times Golf Agency, provides an unforgettable golf experience in Lagos, Algarve.Espiche Golf, one of the finest destinations offered by Tee Times Golf Agency, provides an unforgettable golf experience in Lagos, Algarve. Founded by three visionary entrepreneurs over two decades ago, Espiche Golf was designed with a unique vision: to create a golf course that seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape of Bago de Uva. South African golf course architect Peter Sauerman, supported by a dedicated team of investors and builders, brought this dream to life.

This golf club stands out as a sustainable design, embodying the philosophy of “Nature Golf.” This approach ensures that every aspect of the course and its facilities is conceived with environmental conservation in mind. Located within a national park, the course requires delicate management to preserve its natural beauty and biodiversity. Espiche Golf employs cutting-edge science and technology to minimise its environmental footprint, implementing water conservation initiatives and wildlife preservation efforts.

The Espiche Golf Academy

The Espiche Golf Academy offers expert tuition for golfers of all levels. Beginners can start their journey with specially designed lessons that build a solid foundation, while experienced players can refine their skills with targeted instruction. The Academy’s state-of-the-art driving range is open to the public and features grass and mat practice areas, a short game area, and a putting green. Additionally, the Academy provides private and group lessons, children’s programs, and advanced analysis using Trackman technology.

Gecko Restaurant: a culinary delight

After a day on the greens, golfers can unwind at the Gecko Restaurant within the award-winning Espiche Clubhouse. Designed by architect Nadine Berger, the restaurant offers a balanced blend of contemporary design and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the golf course and surrounding terrain while indulging in exquisite cuisine. Whether indoors or on the outdoor terrace, Gecko Restaurant provides a memorable culinary experience.

Espiche Golf’s commitment to excellence extends to its facilities. In 2015, Golf Inc. Magazine recognised the clubhouse as the third-best new construction clubhouse in the world. This accolade highlights the innovative, sustainable, and creative design that defines it.

Your next golf destination

Espiche Golf offers a unique blend of challenge, beauty, and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts golfers. With its rich history, commitment to the environment, top-notch golf academy, and exceptional dining, Espiche promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking the ultimate golf holiday in Portugal. Book your next golf package with Tee Times Golf Agency and discover the unparalleled charm of this fantastic golf course.

Photos by: Espiche Golf.

Santo da Serra: an unforgettable golf destination in Madeira

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Located on the breathtaking island of Madeira, Santo da Serra Golf Club stands out as one of the premier golf destinations offered by Tee Times Golf Agency.

Located on the breathtaking island of Madeira, Santo da Serra Golf Club stands out as one of the premier golf destinations offered by Tee Times Golf Agency. It’s not just the rich history and exceptional facilities that make this club unique, but also its 27-hole layout, the only one of its kind in the Atlantic Ocean. This club promises an unparalleled golfing experience in one of the most exclusive locations in the Atlantic Ocean.

Santo da Serra Golf Club history

The history of Santo da Serra Golf Club is a journey back to the early 20th century. The original 9-hole course, established in 1937, was reimagined in 1991 by the legendary golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. This metamorphosis gave birth to a breathtaking 27-hole layout that has been the stage for the prestigious Madeira Islands Open, a significant event on the European Tour. The course’s picturesque setting, overlooking the bay of Machico—where Portuguese explorers first set foot on the island—adds a layer of historical charm to your golfing experience.

The Santo da Serra Golf Club boasts a challenging yet enjoyable design. The 27-hole course is divided into three 9-hole sections: Machico, Desertas, and Serras. The Machico and Desertas courses are used for professional tournaments and feature breathtaking views and demanding play. The Serras course offers a more relaxed atmosphere with serene lakes and mountain vistas.

At Santo da Serra, golfers are given the power to shape their game to their skill level. With four tee options at each hole, you can choose the challenge that suits you, whether a leisurely round or a professional-level test. The course’s meticulously maintained fairways, greens, and roughs reflect the dedication to quality that makes Santo da Serra a top-tier golfing destination.

Beyond golf: exploring Madeira

Madeira is a golfer’s paradise and a haven for travellers seeking beauty and adventure. The island’s lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and vigorous flora make it an outstanding destination for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying nature. Funchal, the capital, is known for its historic architecture, botanical gardens, and exquisite local cuisine, providing plenty of activities for non-golfers and post-golf relaxation. Whether you’re interested in exploring the island’s unique levada walks, enjoying a wine-tasting tour, or simply relaxing on one of the island’s beautiful beaches, Madeira has something for everyone.

The club’s facilities include a modern clubhouse with a panoramic restaurant and bar offering stunning ocean views. The training area is equally impressive, featuring two putting greens, a chipping green, a bunker, and a three-tiered driving range, one of which is covered. The Pro Shop is stocked with top golf brands and equipment for hire.

Tee Times Golf Agency: your gateway to Madeira golf holidays

Tee Times provides exceptional service and exclusive packages for golfers wishing to experience Santo da Serra. From booking tee times to arranging accommodations and tours around Madeira, we ensure a seamless and memorable golfing holiday. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an amateur, Santo da Serra Golf Club and Tee Times Golf Agency invite you to discover one of the world’s most beautiful and rewarding golf experiences.

Photos by: Santo da Serra Golf Club.

From Postage Stamp to Turnberry: the extremes of Royal Troon at the 152nd Open

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The 152nd Open Championship, the oldest and most prestigious tournament in golf, will take place at the iconic Royal Troon Golf Club from July 18 to 21.

The 152nd Open Championship, the oldest and most prestigious tournament in golf, will take place at the iconic Royal Troon Golf Club from July 18 to 21. As the year’s final major, this historic event promises a week filled with thrilling competition and memorable moments on one of the world’s most challenging courses and connects you to the sport’s rich legacy.

Royal Troon (par 71), a venue hosting The Open for the tenth time, has seen several great champions such as Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, Bobby Locke, Justin Leonard, and most recently, Henrik Stenson in 2016. This year’s The Open promises to be just as thrilling with a star-studded lineup that includes Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Xander Schauffele, Bryson DeChambeau, Ludvig Aberg, Jon Rahm, Viktor Hovland, Brooks Koepka, and Collin Morikawa. And, of course, Tiger Woods. We can’t wait to see what this edition has in store!

Royal Troon extremes

Royal Troon, a Scottish course steeped in history and tradition, is a treasure trove of secrets and stories that have shaped its legendary status. The course boasts two particularly notable holes among its many renowned features: the sixth and the eighth. Each offers a unique challenge and a distinct place in the Open Championship history, promising an intriguing and exciting experience for all.

At 601 yards, the sixth hole at Royal Troon is the longest in Open Championship history. It demands precision and power from the tee, with an arrow-straight drive needed to land between fairway bunkers on both sides. The second shot, typically with a fairway wood, must be aimed slightly left to avoid the right-side bunker, setting up a soft pitch to a narrow green framed by picturesque sand dunes.

The eighth hole, the “Postage Stamp,” is the shortest in Open Championship history, measuring just 123 yards. And from the front tee to a short flag, it’s just 99 yards. Originally called “Ailsa” for its perfect view of the rocky islet of that name, it earned its current moniker when William Park described the green as “a pitching surface skimmed down to the size of a postage stamp” in Golf Illustrated. The tee shot is played from high ground over a gully to a long, narrow green set into a sandhill. Bunkers on the left and a large crater bunker guarding the approach add to the challenge, making accuracy paramount. Over the years, this tiny target has been the downfall of many top players, underscoring its reputation as a deceptively tricky hole.

As the world’s best golfers gather at Royal Troon, Tee Times Golf Agency extends its best wishes to all participants and spectators. We hope you enjoy a spectacular week of golf at the year’s final major. May the players find inspiration in the rich history of this remarkable course, and may the fans revel in the excitement and beauty of the game.

Photos by: Royal Troon.