Montebelo Golf

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Golf Course

District: Viseu > Tondela > Fial > Montebelo Golfe

Location:

Situated in the Montebelo Golfe area, in the village of Fial, Tondela municipality, this course stretches across approximately 200 hectares of gentle hills between the Estrela and Caramulo mountain ranges. The elevated position offers sweeping views of green valleys and, on clear days, allows one to spot the mountainous crests that frame the region.

The environment is predominantly rural, marked by pine trees, oaks, and patches of broom and heather that have remained after the course's construction. Local roads lead to small villages, while Viseu is just a few minutes' drive away, serving as the main urban reference point in the vicinity.

Origin and Evolution

Inaugurated in September 1997 with 18 holes, the project was conceived by British architects Mark Stilwell and Malcolm Kenyon, who took advantage of the natural topography to create a challenging course integrated into the landscape. The expansion to 27 holes was completed in 2001, enhancing the variety of playing lines and allowing for alternate routings.

The design followed sustainability principles, preserving native undergrowth and utilizing existing watercourses for irrigation ponds. This concern helped maintain the mountainous character of the site and mitigate the visual impact of the infrastructure.

Course Features

The complex is divided into three 9-hole courses (Caramulo, Estrela, and Buçaco) all with a par of 72 when combined into an 18-hole round. The undulating terrain creates elevation changes that demand tactical choices, while wide fairways offer room for those who prioritize power.

The greens, planted with Agrostis providence, contrast with the fescue fairways, providing fast and consistent surfaces throughout the year. Water hazards and doglegs appear at strategic points, adding variety without overly penalizing less experienced players.

Landscape and Ambiance

During the round, natural settings shift from wide panoramic views to more enclosed nooks within corridors of pine trees. The silence is broken only by the sound of the breeze in the canopies and the chirping of birds, common along the banks of the artificial lakes.

In spring, the blooming heather tints parts of the rough violet, while autumn brings golden hues to the oaks. These seasonal contrasts transform each visit into a distinct visual experience, appreciated by players who enjoy nature photography.

Playing Experience

The layout of the tee boxes allows for difficulty adjustments, making the course accessible to both beginners and advanced players. Practice areas including a driving range, pitch & putt, and bunker shot zones are located in the center of the grounds, facilitating preparation before the round.

For those seeking a more recreational alternative, there is also a course adapted for FootGolf, a sport that combines golf strategy with the precise kicking of football, using larger diameter holes and a size 5 ball.

Local Tip

On the final holes of the Caramulo course, the descending slope accompanies the sunset over the valley, creating a warm light that highlights the terrain and the elongated shadows of the pine trees. Many players finish their round near the 18th green just to savor this moment, which offers one of the course's most memorable views.

Bringing compact binoculars can be useful for observing soaring birds that take advantage of the thermal currents generated by the neighboring slopes, adding an element of contemplation to the sporting experience.

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