A Portugal project

Salgados Golf Club in Algarve, Portugal, recently launched a €3.2 million facility renovation initiative that will include upgrades to its 18-hole golf course and golf facilities.

The four-month course renovation started November 1 and will be completed in February 2025.

Troon agronomy vice president Simon Doyle and the Troon Design and Development team will oversee the course renovation work, including the unveiling of a new island green signature hole as part of an expansion of on-course lakes to increase habitat for birds and flora.

The course renovation project will also include the installation of a new Rain Bird irrigation system — replacing the property’s 30-year-old system — and will optimize use of regional gray water for irrigation. Salgados is the only golf course in Portugal to utilize 100 percent effluent/non-potable water in its golf course irrigation system.

In addition, all tee boxes will be laser-leveled, and bunkers will be reshaped and receive new sand for improved playability.

During the expansion of the lakes for more wildlife habitat and water capacity, crews will transform the par-3 12th hole, which currently incorporates an existing lake, into a full island green surrounded by water on all sides. Reminiscent of other famous island greens around the world and bordered with native rock, the new layout will range from 96 meters from the forward tees to 135 meters from the back tees and will add to the drama and beauty of the course.

Highgate Portugal started a reinvigoration of the resort in January 2023. Troon took over golf operations, course agronomy, and sales and marketing efforts in August 2023. Additional enhancements are planned for the property’s three hotels and conference center.

“We are thrilled to announce this investment into the renovation of Salgados, marking a new chapter for the course and our commitment to providing memorable destination facilities,” Highgate Portugal COO Sérgio Leandro said. “With Troon’s proven track record in management and course development, we are confident this project will upgrade the Salgados experience for golfers and visitors alike, while enhancing the natural beauty of the landscape.”

In addition to the four-month renovation and property improvement project, Salgados Golf Club will also take delivery of a brand new fleet of Club Car golf carts in February 2025.

“This project is yet another exciting milestone in our relationship with Highgate Portugal,” Troon senior VP Ricardo Catarino said. “Since the onset, the goal has been to elevate the golf experience at Salgados and cement its position as a course to play in the Algarve. 

“We are very pleased with our partnership with Highgate and look forward to expanding our footprint in Europe even further. Our goal remains to deliver on Troon’s core values of providing operational excellence and great customer satisfaction.”

Salgados Golf Club features an 18-hole, par-72 layout originally designed by Pedro Vasconcelos in 1994 and renovated in 2012 by landscape architect Álvaro Mano. Set against the stunning natural backdrop of the Algarve Coast and located near Salgados Beach and Salgados Lagoon Nature Reserve, golf holes are flanked by multiple water features.