Golf in Madeira is preparing to fulfil a dream with Sir Nick Faldo’s support

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Thanks to multiple champion Sir Nick Faldo, golf in Madeira has been reinvented once again with the resurgence of the Ponta do Pargo Golf Course. Fifteen years after the project fell victim to the global financial crisis in 2009, this masterpiece will materialise on the “Hawaii of Europe” in 2026.

The site of Sir Nick Faldo’s new European project is located on the western cliffs of the famous Portuguese island. With more than 200 meters of elevation change, from the green of the 16th hole, hidden next to the famous lighthouse that guards the coast, to the tee of the 7th hole that rises above 400-foot cliffs towards the Atlantic. The 7th, 8th and 9th greens are at the world’s edge, clinging to the cliff’s border.

 

Golf in Madeira is special

Faldo commented in an interview published by Destination Golf: “We have something special in Madeira; being able to sculpt the course on the site itself is exciting. We believe this will be a dream course that every golfer will want to play. The scale of the place is difficult to explain; the cliffs are massive.”

Faldo Design has worked closely with local authorities to reactivate this golf project in Madeira fully. They are currently selecting the design team, which is expected to be on-site in early 2024, as the major groundwork on the front nine holes is almost complete.

Sustainable golf course design has been a core principle for Faldo Design for decades. After reviewing the original 2007 design, they have adjusted some holes and reduced the irrigated areas, using a local grass (Kikuya) that will reduce water requirements and allow a smooth transition between the field and the native flora that overlooks Ponta do Pargo its majestic beauty.

For a long time, at Tee Times Golf Agency, we have been offering the best golf packages in Madeira with a high-level offer. When Ponta do Pargo is completed, it will join a list that includes Santo Da Serra Golf, the Palheiro Golf Course, and Porto Santo Golfe for those looking for the best Madeira golf breaks and relaxing experiences.

The project promises to be the best golf in Madeira experience and is expected to be playable even in challenging weather conditions. Fans are already preparing to enjoy the best golf in Portugal on the Atlantic Ocean.

Diputación de Cádiz boosts golf in Spain tourism with sponsorship in DP World Tour and LIV Golf

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In a significant move for golf in Spain tourism, Germán Beardo, Vice President of the Diputación de Cádiz, has announced the sponsorship of DP World Tour and LIV Golf tournaments in the province. The strategic decision aims to leverage the positive impact of golf tourism on the local economy, emphasising its role in reducing seasonality and contributing to the region’s economic growth.

“Golf tourism significantly contributes to our economy, fostering economic growth and reducing seasonality. The sponsorship agreement aligns with our 2024 Action Plan, outlining key strategies for the Tourism Board,” explains Beardo within the first professional day of FITUR and published by www.golfindustria.es.

 

The importance of golf in Spain tourism

Golf in Spain tourism is a significant contributor to the economy of Cádiz, with a 2022 report by Adeitur Consulting revealing that golf contributes over €770 million annually to the province, with a direct economic impact exceeding €400 million. Golf tourists in Cádiz spend an average of over €120 per day, significantly surpassing the overall tourist average in the region.

Until now, the Diputación has focused on positioning the province and Costa de la Luz as premier golf destinations. Efforts include partnerships with golf tour operators, enhancing air connections, and active participation in industry-specific fairs and events.

For decades, Tee Times Golf Agency has been promoting the golf of Cadiz and the Costa de la Luz with the best hotel & golf packages on world-famous courses. Sherry Golf Jerez, Real Novo Sancti Petri Golf Club, Villanueva Golf and La Estancia Golf are some of the best options in this fantastic region.

Sponsoring the DP World Tour and LIV Golf tournaments underscores Cádiz’s dedication to becoming a top choice for golf enthusiasts. With an emphasis on strategic planning and economic impact, the Diputación aims to further establish Cádiz as a leading destination for golf in Spain tourism.

Honouring golf and camaraderie in Quinta do Lago: highlights from the 7th Tee Times Open Championship

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January was marked by the 7th Tee Times Open Championship (19-21 January), bringing together 60 amateur golfers (in teams of two players) at the prestigious Quinta do Lago, which has some of the best golf courses in Portugal. 

Supported by sponsors like Hilton, Penina Resort, NAU Palm Village, Quinta do Vale, Espiche, Benamor and Quinta da Tor Wines, the championship showcased the golfing prowess of the players. The “Driving Range Heroes” team emerged victorious with Jim Gillis & Axel Bleymann’s outstanding performance, clinching the champions’ cup and fantastic prizes, including stays at Hilton Vilamoura and green fees in Quinta do Lago.

The camaraderie of the Tee Times Open Championship kicked off on January 18 with a warm welcome at Chez Carlos Restaurant, setting the stage for an unforgettable tournament.

 

7th Tee Times Open Championship recap

Despite a rainy start at Quinta do Lago North, players enthusiastically navigated the challenging course. The competition continued at Quinta do Lago Laranjal, where strategic play was crucial on the picturesque, sun-soaked course surrounded by orange groves. Axel Bleymann’s remarkable hole-in-one on Laranjal’s second hole added an extra thrill to the event. 

The final showdown at Quinta do Lago South tested golfers with its natural surroundings overlooking Ria Formosa’s reserve. “Last Minute” claimed victory on the last day (John Balvers and Jorge Diogo), demonstrating resilience and skill. Each day featured unique formats, emphasising teamwork and individual prowess.

“Our Open Championship at Quinta de Lago was an excellent excuse to meet friends and clients. We faced three very demanding golf courses, especially in the first round, with adverse weather. Then the sun shone, and the weather was fantastic to enjoy these wonderful and well-prepared golf courses,” said Carlos Ferreira, CEO and founder of Tee Times Golf Agency.

“We celebrate our friendship and the work we have done for more than 30 years, providing golf and tourism services with professionalism and passion,” added Ferreira, who was grateful to the sponsors and those who organised the championship.

The Tee Times Open Championship celebrated exceptional golf and fostered fellowship and friendship among participants from England, Ireland, Netherlands, France and Portugal. The event showcased the beauty of golf in Portugal and the dedication of Tee Times Golf Agency, a key player in promoting golf and tourism in Portugal and Spain for over 30 years. With a legacy of excellent service, Tee Times continues to attract golf enthusiasts worldwide, solidifying its position as a trusted name in the industry.

 

FINAL RESULTS
1st Driving Range Heroes (Jim Gillis & Axel Bleymann) 110 points.
2nd Longman & Rothwell (Paul Longman & Neal Rothwell) 109 points.
3rd Urban Rhino (Michael Hall & Scott Couper) 106 points.