Golf Business News – Aroeira set to scale new heights with PGA partnership

Aroeira, one of the most famous names in Portuguese golf, is entering a new chapter in its history after a major rebranding and a new identity – PGA Aroeira Lisboa.

The rebranding of Lisbon’s 36-hole course and its two courses comes at the same time as a major investment in its golf and leisure facilities, creating the only PGA National in Portugal and setting it apart from other leading PGA resorts, including the likes of the past. The Ryder Cup will be hosted by Gleneagles and The Belfry.

Known as the ‘Wentworth of Lisbon’ after first opening in the 1970s, the PGA partnership strengthens the reputation of one of Portugal’s premier golf destinations.

“This is the beginning of a new era for Aroeira – which golfers, like everyone here, will be very happy about,” said Nuno Sepulveda, CEO of Details – Sports, Hospitality, Leisure – PGA Aroeira Lisboa’s management company.

“It is our desire that PGA Aroeira Lisboa sets a new standard for golf in Portugal, combining tradition and innovation under the prestigious PGA brand. With our state-of-the-art facilities and two beautiful golf courses, we look forward to welcoming golfers from all over the world.”

Richard Barker, executive director – business development for the PGA, said: “We are delighted to welcome Aroeira to our portfolio of PGA National Branded Properties, marking an important step in the development of golf in Lisbon.

“PGA Aroeira Lisboa stands out as a premier venue, now competing with the best offerings in Portugal. This incredible development will improve golf for visitors around the world, be it for tours, tournaments or teaching and we are eager to show this to our PGA members.

In addition, our partnership with Details Group promises significant support for PGA members, as we will work together to host future PGA events in Portugal in the coming years.”

The new partnership with The PGA will see Aroeira’s two 18-hole courses given new names, with the Aroeira Pines Classic being renamed PGA Aroeira 1 and the Aroeira Challenge becoming PGA Aroeira 2.

A two-time host of the Portuguese Open in 1996 and 1997, PGA Aroeira 1 is widely regarded as one of the best facilities in continental Europe. Designed by Frank Pennink and meandering through tall pine forests and surrounded by wildlife, the 6,650-yard structure will reopen on October 15 after a major renovation.

Development of the course – including the tee boxes and bunkers, which will be resurfaced and filled with new sand – began in June. As part of the resort’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, a new state-of-the-art irrigation system has been installed to improve the landscaping and dramatically reduce the amount of water needed.

The greens will also benefit from the introduction of bentgrass, known for creating fast and true fairways, while the fairways will be planted with Bermuda grass to further cut water use. Landscaping throughout the design also receives extensive care, maintaining the course’s natural beauty aspect while respecting the environment and native wildlife.

The Aroeira Challenge, framed in a stunning setting like its older sibling and featuring a combination of large, uncrowded greens and a number of lakes to negotiate, will receive a similar upgrade, after which it will be renamed PGA Aroeira 2.

In addition to improving the golf courses, other investments will see the creation of a variety of new real estate options from apartments to villas, all designed by leading architects and suitable as an investment opportunity, first residence or holiday home. This will be complemented by a range of sports and leisure facilities including restaurants, a cafe and a new clubhouse.

DETAILS, the platform responsible for managing Arrow Global’s hospitality, sports and leisure properties in Portugal – has managed Aroeira until the end of 2023.

PGA Aroeira Lisboa is among two of the nine golf courses operated by DETAILS in Portugal, with the others including Vilamoura, Lagos (Palmares) and Vale Pisão. In addition, the group manages 15 hotels across the country.