Aroeira, one of the most famous names in Portuguese golf, is embarking on a new stage of its history after undergoing a major rebrand and being given a new identity – PGA Aroeira Lisboa.
The renaming of the 36-hole Lisbon venue 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 putting it alongside other leading PGA resorts, including the likes of previous Ryder Cup hosts Gleneagles and The Belfry.
Famously nicknamed as the ‘Wentworth of Lisbon’ after first opening in the 1970s, the PGA partnership further strengthens the reputation of one of Portugal’s premier golf destinations.
“This is the start of a new era for Aroeira – one that golfers, like everyone here, will be very excited about,” said Nuno Sepulveda, co-CEO at Details – Sports, Hospitality, Leisure – PGA Aroeira Lisboa’s management company.
“It is our ambition for PGA Aroeira Lisboa to set a new standard for golf in Portugal, blending tradition and innovation under the esteemed PGA brand. With our world-class facilities and two fantastic golf courses, we look forward to welcoming golfers from all over the world.”
Richard Barker, executive director – business development of The PGA, said: “We are delighted to welcome Aroeira to our portfolio of PGA National Branded Properties, marking a significant step in the development of golf in Lisbon.
“PGA Aroeira Lisboa stands out as a premier destination, now competing with the best offerings in Portugal. This exceptional development will elevate the golfing experience for visitors worldwide, whether for travel, tournaments or tuition and we are eager to showcase this to our PGA members.
Furthermore, our partnership with the Details Group promises significant support for PGA members, as we will work together to host future PGA events in Portugal over the coming years.”
The new partnership with The PGA will see Aroeira’s two 18-hole championship courses being given new names, with Aroeira Pines Classic being rebranded as PGA Aroeira 1 and 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 layouts in continental Europe. Designed by Frank Pennink and meandering through tall avenues of pine forest and surrounded by wildlife, the 6,650-yard layout is to reopen on October 15 following a major renovation.
Upgrades to the course – including tee boxes and bunkers, which will be reshaped and filled with new sand – started 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 putting surfaces and dramatically reduce the amount of water required.
Greens will also benefit from the introduction of bentgrass, known for creating fast and true surfaces, while fairways will be planted with Bermuda grass to further cut water consumption. Landscaping throughout the layout is also receiving extensive care, maintaining the course’s characteristic natural beauty while paying respect to the surrounding environment and native wildlife.
Aroeira Challenge, which is framed in the same spectacular setting as its older sibling and features a combination of large, undulating greens and a number of lakes to negotiate, will receive a similar upgrade, after which time it will be renamed PGA Aroeira 2.
In addition to making upgrades to the golf courses, other investment will see the creation of a variety of new real estate options from villas to apartments, all designed by leading architects and ideal as an investment opportunity, a primary residence or a holiday home. These will be complemented by an array of sports and leisure facilities including restaurants, a café and a new clubhouse.
DETAILS, the platform responsible for managing the hospitality, sports and leisure areas of Arrow Global in Portugal – took management of Aroeira at the end of 2023.
PGA Aroeira Lisboa is among two of nine golf courses operated by DETAILS in Portugal, with others including Vilamoura, Lagos (Palmares) and Vale Pisão. In addition, the group manages 15 hotels across the country.