Ernie Els Unveils First Private Golf Club in Algarve
In an exciting move for golf enthusiasts and the Algarve region, golf legend Ernie Els is stepping up to the plate as the architect of the first private members’ golf club in this beautiful part of Portugal. This new venture, known as The Els Club Vilamoura, marks Els’s first foray into European private golf, and he couldn’t be more thrilled about it!
A South African Celebrity’s New Quest
At the age of 55, the four-time major champion and former World No.1 has certainly made his mark on the golf world. From his days of winning 28 times on the European Tour and bagging 19 PGA Tour victories, including two U.S. Opens and two Open Championships, Els brings a wealth of experience and a passion for golf to this project. He has been a well-known name in golf since he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame back in 2011, and now he’s ready to create something truly unique.
The Big Easy’s Dream Job
Speaking about this venture, Ernie Els said, “This one is really special.” He’s no stranger to opening exclusive golf clubs, having launched four others around the globe, but bringing his luxury concept to Europe holds a dear place in his heart. “We have been keeping this one under wraps, as we know the standing this property has in the eyes of the golfing public and wanted to hit the mark with the design.”
Transformation of a Classic
The Els Club Vilamoura is not just any golf course; it’s a significant revamp of the iconic Victoria Course, which was previously home to the well-regarded Portugal Masters. This transformative project is part of a major investment by Arrow Global, focusing on bringing exceptional golf experiences to the Algarve. The official opening for a select group of Founder Members is expected in Summer 2025—mark your calendars!
Golf Meets Community Spirit
Ernie emphasized the collaborative efforts with Arrow Global and the management company, DETAILS. He expressed how working with a group that has a “clear vision and mission” allows for a final product that resonates with what golf is meant to represent. Els stated, “Whenever we design a golf course, we always have an eye on what makes it a championship golf course.”
Home Sweet Home
For Els, this project is more than just a job; it’s a sentimental journey. “When the kids were small, we lived in England and could come down to this area for summer holidays. We would come down and play golf in the courses in Vilamoura,” he reminisced. The warmth and fondness he has for the region shines through, making this project feel like coming back home.
Quality and Privacy Redefined
With Nuno Sepúlveda, Co-CEO of DETAILS, alongside Els, they believe this club will offer a new level of service and privacy that’s rarely available in the Algarve. “The Els Club Vilamoura will reflect his passion and demand for excellence,” Sepúlveda mentioned, emphasizing the aim to create an exceptional space for members.
A Vision for the Future
The opening of The Els Club Vilamoura is not just about golf; it’s about creating a multi-functional resort that will attract a diverse range of visitors. With plans for equestrian centers, hotels, and residential developments, this venture is positioned to deliver long-term value to the Algarve community while mitigating the effects of tourism seasonality.
Wrapping Up a New Chapter
So, as the plans unfurl and the construction begins, golf fans and future members can look forward to a premier golfing experience that pairs luxury with the stunning backdrop of the Algarve. Ernie Els is making waves once again, and this time, he’s put his heart and soul into creating a golfer’s paradise.
