Ernie Els Launches First Private Golf Club in Europe
Big news for golf fans! Ernie Els, a legend in the golf world and a four-time major champion, is opening the very first private golf club in Europe, right in the heart of the Algarve. Yes, you heard that right! With his new venture, The Els Club Vilamoura, Els promises to deliver a luxe golfing experience that is simply unmatched.
Sunshine, Sand, and Spectacular Golf
The club, which will kick off operations in the summer of 2025, aims to offer its members a whole new level of exclusive and privileged access that golfers have been dreaming about. Els, who is now 55, expressed how special this project feels to him. He said, “This one is really special. We’ve been keeping this one under wraps as we know how much this property means to golfers.”
For those who might not know, Els has a rich history in golf. He’s not just a former world number one, but also a proud member of the World Golf Hall of Fame, having racked up an incredible 28 wins on the European Tour and 19 wins on the PGA Tour! His accolades also include two U.S. Open titles and two Open championships. Talk about a decorated career!
The Dream Team Behind the Design
Els is partnering with Arrow Global, the investment firm behind this initiative, to transform the former home of the Portugal Masters into a reimagined venue that’ll serve as his first exclusive club in Europe. This isn’t just any run-of-the-mill golf course; Els and his award-winning design team have been diligently working on this project. They’ve even broken ground this year, starting to sculpt what they envision as an exceptional golfing experience.
Why did he choose the Algarve? Well, Els has fond memories of this region. “When the kids were small, we lived in England and would come down to this area for summer holidays,” he reflected. “When the opportunity came up through DETAILS, it really made sense to me. When I come here, I feel like I’m coming home.”
A Championship Experience Awaits
For golf enthusiasts, the promise of a championship golf course is always enticing. Els makes it clear that creating a top-tier golfing environment is at the forefront of their design philosophy. His past courses have hosted several prestigious events on various tours, and he intends to keep that tradition alive at The Els Club Vilamoura.
Nuno Sepúlveda, Co-CEO of DETAILS, a management group overseeing the project, shared his enthusiasm as well. He stated, “It is a real honour and privilege to work with Ernie Els on this extraordinary private club which will offer members a new level of service and privacy previously unattainable.”
A Multi-Purpose Resort Takeover
This golf club is part of a larger vision by Arrow Global, which aims to enhance the local luxury landscape with various offerings, including equestrian centres, hotels, and residential developments. The focus here is to create a multi-purpose resort that attracts a wide range of guests, ensuring long-term value and durability in an area often subject to seasonal fluctuations.
Golfers and fans alike can barely contain their excitement for what’s to come with The Els Club Vilamoura. As the club gears up to bring a unique blend of exclusivity and top-notch golfing to Europe, it’s clear that Ernie Els is once again thinking big. This golf legend is sure to leave yet another incredible mark on the world of golf.
