Golf Legend Ernie Els Unveils Exciting New Club in Algarve
In a thrilling announcement, Ernie Els, the legendary South African golfer and four-time major champion, has partnered with Arrow Global to create the first-ever private golf club in the Algarve. This groundbreaking club, named the Els Club Vilamoura, marks a significant milestone in European golf, set to open its doors to a select group of Founder Members in the summer of 2025!
A Storied Career
For those unfamiliar with Els, he’s one of the all-time greats in golf, boasting an incredible resume that includes 28 victories on the European Tour and 19 wins on the PGA Tour. His decorated career is highlighted by two U.S. Open titles in 1994 and 1997, as well as two Open Championships in 2002 and 2012. Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011, Els has also been celebrated for his PGA Tour Rookie of the Year award in 1994 and leading the Order of Merit on the European Tour in 2003 and 2004.
Creating Something Special
Excited about the project, Els said, “This one is really special. We’ve kept this under wraps because we know the significance of this property to golfers everywhere. I was thrilled to take on the challenge of creating something extraordinary for this region.” With an impressive track record for designing high-quality golf experiences around the globe, Els aims to set a new standard with this private members’ club.
The club, which will be built on the former Victoria Course, the previous home of the Portugal Masters, will offer a luxurious golfing experience with world-class amenities, reflecting the blue and gold hallmark of the Els brand that golfers have come to love. “I can’t wait for people to see it,” Els added, full of enthusiasm about bringing his vision to life.
A Vision for Excellence
Under Els’ adept guidance, his talented design team has already broken ground on the project, which is overseen by DETAILS – a management company that’s known for its involvement in sports and hospitality in Portugal. Els expressed his gratitude for being chosen to redesign the Victoria Course, stating that working with a team that shares a clear vision is a dream come true. “When the opportunity came up through DETAILS, it really made sense to me,” he reminisced, reflecting on past family holidays spent playing golf in Vilamoura.
If you’re wondering what to expect, Els promised it would be unmatched. “We’re designing a golf course with an eye on championship excellence… and customizing an experience just for members,” he said confidently.
A New Era for Algarve Golf
The Els Club Vilamoura isn’t just another golf course; it’s an essential addition to the vibrant Algarve region, contributing to a multi-purpose resort. Nuno Sepúlveda, co-CEO of DETAILS, echoed the excitement surrounding this project by saying, “It’s a real honour and privilege to work with Ernie Els… offering members a new level of service and privacy previously unattainable in the Algarve.”
This private golf club, part of a broader investment that includes hotel facilities and other recreational pursuits, promises to attract a diverse clientele looking for a luxurious and holistic holiday experience. With its stunning location and Els’ attention to detail and quality, golfers and enthusiasts alike can look forward to a new chapter in Algarve’s golfing history.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of golfing in a legendary setting backed by a Hall of Fame champion, keep an eye on the Els Club Vilamoura. It’s shaping up to be a game-changer!
