Arrow Global Portugal hosts Innovation Challenge for the third time
Aroeira Implements Golf Course Improvements
Work has already begun on improving and modernizing the Aroeira Pines Classic Golf Course in Lisbon. Renovation work on the Aroeira Pines Classic will take place between June and October this year, and a similar upgrade is planned for the Aroeira Challenge in 2025.
Nicknamed the ‘Wentworth of Lisbon’ by many experts in the field due to the natural setting in which they are located, the courses will undergo extensive renovations to the bunkers, tees, greens, course landscaping and irrigation system, with a focus on sustainability. This renovation is expected to reduce water consumption by more than 20%.
Nuno Sepúlveda, co-CEO of Details – Hospitality Sports, Leisure, explains that “Aroeira is one of the most famous places in Portuguese golf and has a lot to offer both members and guests. With these improvements we will be able to enhance the overall playing experience, not least because both courses have extremely attractive layouts, the topography offers something that is unique for golf in this country and it is our aim to rejuvenate and elevate the Aroeira product to new heights.”
The significant reduction in water consumption will occur thanks to the planting of Bermuda grass, the repair and lining of all the lakes to improve water retention and quality, and the installation of new state-of-the-art irrigation systems.
The greens will feature an introduction of bentgrass that will offer fast and firm putting surfaces, while the bunkers will undergo a complete renovation on both layouts, being totally refurbished and filled with new sand. Other improvements include upgrades to the practice facilities and golf equipment.
“The pitch renovation programs we are implementing will maintain the nature and design of the pitches, but will manage to improve the condition of the playing surfaces and the overall environment of each layout, in an efficient and sustainable way,” adds Nuno Sepúlveda.
Designed by Frank Pennink, who also designed the Old Course in Vilamoura, the Aroeira Pines Classic hosted the Portuguese Open in 1996 and 1997. This is a golf course that demands precision but rewards it with its unique setting.
The Aroeira Challenge, which opened in 2000, was designed by Donald Steel and is the ideal complement to its big brother. Surrounded by water on nine of its holes, and with large undulating greens, it provides a real test for golfers.
This iconic golf destination, just 25 minutes from Lisbon, has been managed by Details – Hospitality Sports, Leisure, – the platform responsible for managing Arrow Global’s Hospitality, Sports and Leisure areas in Portugal – since the end of 2023. In addition to the Aroeira golf courses, Details manages the Vilamoura, Palmares and Vale Pisão golf courses.
