Golf in Portugal

Masters of Design: How Iconic Golf Course Architects Elevated Portugal’s Tourism

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Portugal is widely recognised as the best golf and tourism destination in the world. Its picturesque landscapes, mild climate, and challenging courses attract enthusiasts from across the globe. Central to this growing popularity is the influence of world-renowned golf course architects, whose creativity and vision have transformed the Portuguese golfing landscape, solidifying Portugal’s reputation as a global leader in golf tourism.

Legendary architects such as Robert Trent Jones Jr., Sir Henry Cotton, and Jack Nicklaus have left indelible marks on Portugal’s golf heritage. Robert Trent Jones Jr. was celebrated for his artistic integration of natural landscapes as the acclaimed Troia Golf Course. Situated south of Lisbon, Troia offers golfers the thrilling experience of seaside play, seamlessly weaving through dunes and pine forests, showcasing Jones’ philosophy of environmental harmony and aesthetic excellence.

Sir Henry Cotton, a three-time Open Champion turned visionary architect, profoundly impacted Portugal with his iconic Penina Hotel & Golf Resort in the Algarve. Opened in 1966, Penina was Portugal’s first 18-hole course, instantly elevating the country’s global golfing prestige. Cotton’s innovative layout provided a blueprint for subsequent course designs, blending classic British golfing traditions with the vibrant Mediterranean environment.

Golf Course Architects Influence

Jack Nicklaus, perhaps the most famous golfer-turned-architect, has significantly influenced Portugal’s reputation for luxurious and strategically challenging courses. The Monte Rei Golf & Country Club in Algarve epitomises Nicklaus’ meticulous approach, combining precision golf strategies with the region’s natural beauty. His signature designs have attracted significant international tournaments and discerning golfers seeking courses that balance difficulty and elegance.

More recently, golf course architects like Rocky Roquemore and Arthur Hills have further enriched Portugal’s golfing scene. Their designs emphasise sustainability and environmental stewardship, ensuring courses such as Quinta da Marinha near Cascais and Oitavos Dunes provide challenging play while preserving the surrounding ecological habitats. New designers in Portugal include Sergio Garcia, who developed Torre at Terra das Comporta, and Ernie Els, the creative mind behind The Els Club Vilamoura.

Tee Times Golf Holidays have further enhanced Portugal’s golf tourism by offering comprehensive golf packages that combine play at premier courses with accommodations and personalised services. These packages allow golf players to enjoy Portugal’s best golfing experiences tailored to their preferences and needs to enjoy their holidays.

The legacy of these architects has undeniably positioned Portugal at the forefront of global golf tourism. Their collective contribution continues to shape Portugal’s golfing identity, drawing visitors eager to experience the country’s unique blend of innovation, natural splendour, and rich golfing.

Game Changer at Old Course Vilamoura: Trackman Technology Hits the Algarve

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When it comes to golf holidays, few places match the charm and innovation you’ll find at the Old Course Vilamoura, one of Tee Times‘ standout destinations. Always popular among golfers visiting Portugal, this legendary Algarve course just got even better thanks to its exciting new partnership with Trackman, the global leader in ball-tracking technology.

Here’s the deal: Old Course Vilamoura is now officially the first course in the Algarve to roll out Trackman’s state-of-the-art tech, changing the way you practice, play, and even compete. Whether you’re working on your swing at the driving range (the largest in Portugal, by the way, with 20 spacious bays) or virtually teeing off from iconic holes using advanced golf simulators, Trackman has you covered.

This innovative partnership, guided by DETAILS (the team behind some of Portugal’s coolest hospitality and sports venues), means golfers get precision feedback on every swing—rain or shine, day or night. The best part? It’s totally free for all guests. Add to that personalised service, welcome gifts, and refreshing snacks throughout the round, and you’ve got a golfing experience that’s genuinely next-level.

Cutting edge at Old Course Vilamoura

Nuno Sepulveda, Co-CEO at DETAILS, sums it up perfectly: “We’re always looking to push the boundaries and keep Vilamoura at the cutting edge of golf. With Trackman, we’re offering golfers the chance to have fun, sharpen their game, and experience our courses virtually from anywhere in the world.”

This fabulous tech addition is just one highlight of Old Course Vilamoura’s impressive recent makeover, including a stylish new clubhouse that blends modern luxury with classic Algarve charm. Sustainability has also been front and centre, with eco-friendly irrigation systems, drought-tolerant grass varieties, energy-efficient Hydropresser stations, and electric-powered equipment reducing the environmental impact.

Ready to hit the greens? Tee Times Golf Holidays invites you to experience the upgraded Old Course Vilamoura firsthand—where technology meets tradition and sustainability meets superb service. Pack your clubs, bring your friends, and prepare for a golf holiday with the best packages that set a new standard for fun, innovation, and unforgettable memories in the Algarve.

Photo: My Golf Way.

Millennium Golf Course Set to Host the GreatGolf Junior Open

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Located in the heart of Vilamoura, the Millennium Golf Course stands as one of Portugal’s premier golfing destinations for unforgettable holidays.The Millennium Golf Course is gearing up to welcome the future golf stars at the GreatGolf 2025 Junior Open on March 2nd and 3rd. Organised by the Luís Figo Foundation, this prestigious tournament will bring together talented young golfers competing in the Under 12, Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18 categories, giving them a platform to showcase their skills. Tee Times Golf Agency is one of the tournament sponsors, supporting and promoting youth golf in Portugal.

Located in the heart of Vilamoura, the Millennium Golf Course stands as one of Portugal’s premier golfing destinations. Known for its lush fairways, tree-lined holes, and immaculately maintained greens, Millennium offers a well-balanced blend of playability and challenge. Designed for golfers of all levels, the course features a mix of open landscapes and strategically demanding sections, ensuring a dynamic and rewarding playing experience.

The Millennium/Laguna Clubhouse serves as the perfect meeting point for golfers, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere from early morning to late afternoon. Its diverse menu caters to all tastes, allowing players to enjoy an energising meal before their round or unwind with a delicious selection of dishes. The clubhouse also features two Pro Shops, fully stocked with essential golf equipment and exclusive Millennium and Laguna merchandise.

Millennium Golf Course: a world-class destination

Managed by Details, Vilamoura Golf is widely recognised as a world-class destination, boasting a collection of outstanding courses, including the Old Course, Pinhal, Laguna, and Millennium, each offering unique challenges and scenic beauty. Whether you are looking for a technical round or a more relaxed game, Vilamoura provides endless opportunities to refine your skills while taking in the breathtaking surroundings.

For those eager to discover this memorable golf getaway, Tee Times Golf Agency offers the best packages to experience Vilamoura’s exceptional golf scene. With over 30 years of expertise in golf travel, Tee Times ensures an unforgettable experience by providing access to top-tier golf courses, premium accommodations, and unmatched service.

As the Millennium Golf Course prepares to welcome the next generation of golf champions, now is the perfect time to discover everything this remarkable course—and Vilamoura—have to offer.