Santo da Serra: an unforgettable golf destination in Madeira

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.

Tee Off in April – Portugal and Spain

Portugal and Spain, renowned for their rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, are also premier destinations for golf enthusiasts. With abundant world-class courses scattered across these countries, golfers are treated to diverse and challenging experiences against breathtaking backdrops. Whether teeing off along the rugged coastlines of Portugal’s Algarve or amidst the picturesque vineyards of Spain’s Andalusian countryside, each round promises an unforgettable journey. Moreover, Portugal and Spain’s mild climates ensure that golf can be enjoyed year-round, adding to the allure of these countries as top golfing destinations in Europe.

Portugal, nestled in the southwest of Europe, is renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. But it’s also a golfer’s paradise. With over 80 golf courses scattered across the country, Portugal offers diverse and challenging options for players of all skill levels.
From the dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in the Algarve to the lush countryside of the Lisbon region, each course presents a unique golfing experience.
Moreover, Portugal’s mild climate ensures that golfers can enjoy the sport year-round, making it an ideal destination for golf holidays. With its combination of scenic beauty, world-class courses, and warm hospitality, Portugal truly stands out as a premier golf destination in Europe.

Spain, a vibrant country in the southwest of Europe, is celebrated for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse culture. But beyond its cultural attractions lies a golfer’s paradise. With over 300 golf courses spread across the country, Spain offers an extensive array of options for players of all levels. From championship courses along the Costa del Sol to picturesque layouts in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, each course promises a unique and memorable golfing experience.
Moreover, Spain’s favorable climate ensures that golfers can enjoy the sport year-round, adding to its allure as a top golfing destination in Europe. With its combination of scenic beauty, world-class courses, and warm hospitality, Spain truly stands out as a premier golfing destination.

Set your tee and swing in two of the best golf destinations!

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

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.