Golf Legend Ernie Els to Open Exclusive Club in Algarve
Exciting news for golf enthusiasts! The legendary Ernie Els, a name synonymous with golfing excellence, is about to make waves in Europe. The four-time major champion and former World No. 1 is teaming up with Arrow Global to bring the first Els Club to the Algarve, a region that has long been sought after by golfers. The new club will also be the very first private members’ golf club in this beautiful part of Portugal!
A Dream Come True
At 55, this South African golfing icon shows no signs of slowing down. Els, who was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011, boasts an impressive career with 28 wins on the European Tour and 19 on the PGA Tour. Among his standout achievements are two U.S. Open titles and two Open Championships. With a track record like that, it’s no wonder golfers around the globe are eagerly awaiting the launch of this exclusive golf club.
The Els Club Vilamoura, slated to open its doors to a select group of Founder Members in **Summer 2025**, promises to offer a prestigious golfing experience that is second to none. “This one is really special,” Els expressed, clearly thrilled about the project. “We’ve kept this under wraps because we know how much this property means to the golfing public. I’ve loved the challenge of creating something exceptional for this part of the world.”
Transforming Vilamoura
To bring this dream to life, Ernie Els was chosen to redesign the Victoria Course, previously known as the host of the Portugal Masters. This significant investment by Arrow Global into Vilamoura is redefining the area, and Els is excited to be at the forefront of this transformation. “The Algarve, and particularly Vilamoura, are outstanding destinations,” he noted. “This is a watershed moment, and we couldn’t be prouder.”
Creating Championship Quality
As Els and his highly-acclaimed design team break ground, they are focused on delivering a championship-quality golf course. “Whenever we design a golf course, our eyes are always on what makes it a championship course,” he explained. He is adamant about ensuring an exclusive and customized experience for all members, akin to what golfers experience at the top-tier courses worldwide.
Reflecting on his personal connection to the Algarve, Els reminisced about his family’s summer holidays in the region when his kids were young. “When the opportunity came up, it made sense to me. Coming here feels like coming home,” he said. His passion for the area enhances his commitment to crafting this exceptional club.
Collaboration for Excellence
Working closely with DETAILS, the management company overseeing the project, Els aims to ensure that The Els Club Vilamoura embodies his high standards of excellence. “It’s a real honour to work with Ernie,” said Nuno Sepúlveda, Co-CEO of DETAILS. “This club will offer members a level of service and privacy that was previously unattainable in the Algarve.”
What Lies Ahead
The Els Club Vilamoura isn’t just another golf course; it represents an important asset in the region. Alongside equestrian centers, hotels, and various residential developments, it aims to create a multi-purpose resort that provides value throughout the year, attracting a wide array of visitors.
As the project continues to unfold, golf fans and potential members alike are buzzing with excitement. The club promises to bring a new standard of golfing luxury, and with Ernie Els at the helm, there’s no doubt it will be something special to watch in the coming years.
Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking initiative that’s sure to put the Algarve on the map for golfers around the world!
