Pinheiros Altos Golf Course

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Golf Course

District: Faro > Loulé > Almancil > Parque Atlântico

Location

Pinheiros Altos Golf Course is located in the Parque Atlântico urbanisation, in Almancil, municipality of Loulé. Its location is particularly noteworthy for its proximity to the Ria Formosa Natural Reserve, a nationally protected area recognized for its beauty and ecological importance. This natural environment confers a serene and scenic atmosphere to the location, also being a vital habitat for various species of rare and migratory birds. The design of the space was conceived to coexist harmoniously with nature, maintaining a low density of construction and a commitment to environmental protection.

Course Design and History

Pinheiros Altos golf course is a 27-hole course, the result of careful evolution over time. The initial 18 holes were designed by the renowned American architect Ronald Fream. Subsequently, in 2007, the Portuguese architect George Santana da Silva contributed with the design for the additional 9 holes, completing the current configuration of the course. This combination of visions resulted in a diverse course that integrates fluidly into the local landscape, combining classic elements with more recent expansions.

The Distinct Courses

The course is divided into three distinct 9-hole courses, each with a par of 36, which can be combined to create different 18-hole experiences: the Pinheiros course, the Sobreiros course, and the Oliveiras course. The Pinheiros course, as its name suggests, is marked by the abundant presence of pine trees and includes a memorable ninth hole, a Par 3 that crosses a valley. The Sobreiros course is considered the most challenging of the three, offering some of the most spectacular views of the Ludo valley and the hills of Goldra. Finally, the Oliveiras course, which corresponds to the original nine holes of the second half of the course, has maintained its layout unchanged since 1995 and is recognized for its eighth hole, an island green that has become one of the hallmarks of Pinheiros Altos. This latter course is also appreciated for the opportunity to observe wildlife and for its layout that gently meanders between water features.

Playing Characteristics and Natural Environment

Pinheiros Altos stands out for the quality of its playing surfaces. Its greens are known for being firm and fast, cultivated with Pentcross Bent grass, while the fairways are covered with Bermuda grass, ensuring excellent conditions for playing golf. The course's landscape is shaped by a gently undulating topography, with dense pine forests and several lakes that integrate naturally into the environment. Each hole has been designed to harmonize with the surrounding beauty, providing a picturesque and tranquil setting for the game, with the Atlantic in the distance.

Golf Support Facilities

To complement the course experience, Pinheiros Altos offers various facilities. The clubhouse provides a welcoming atmosphere and ample views over the golf course and its lakes. Players have access to a well-equipped golf academy, two practice ranges, specific areas for putting, chipping, and a practice bunker. Additionally, an on-site golf shop features a range of apparel and equipment, where advice can be sought on the most suitable options for playing golf.