Eighth Dunes

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Golf Course

District: Lisboa > Cascais > Safardão > Oitavos Dunes

Location

Oitavos Dunes is located in the Safardão area, within the municipality of Cascais. It is strategically situated within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, benefiting from a location that offers broad panoramas. From various points on the site, it is possible to contemplate the immense Atlantic Ocean and the views over the majestic Sintra Mountains, creating a distinctive natural setting.

Concept and Design

The Oitavos Dunes golf course, inaugurated in 2001, was designed by architect Arthur Hills. Its conception focused on perfect integration with the natural surroundings, intrinsically respecting the coastal dune ecosystem and local vegetation. The name "Dunes" reflects this deep connection with the area's geographical features, valuing its sand formations.

Landscape and Course

The 18-hole course, with a par of 71, offers an experience that molds itself to the natural landscape. Its fairways meander between sand dunes and some pine forest areas, providing a varied environment. The constant proximity of the Atlantic Ocean lends the course a particular atmosphere, where the sea breeze is a natural element present. This unique design combines the characteristics of a "links" golf course with those of a "parkland" course, standing out for its generous and undulating greens.

Recognition and Environmental Commitment

Oitavos Dunes is widely recognized for its quality and international excellence. It was the first golf course in Europe, and the second in the world, to receive Gold Signature Sanctuary status, awarded by Audubon International. This distinction underscores the site's high level of commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability, ensuring the protection of its valuable natural heritage.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt