Four-time Major champ and former World No. 1 Ernie Els is bringing his legendary touch to Europe for the first time, and the Algarve is the lucky recipient.
Teaming up with Arrow Global, Els is set to unveil the Algarve’s very first private members-only golf club, with an exclusive opening lined up for Summer 2025.
The Els Club Vilamoura is set to shake up the Algarve’s golf scene, combining top-tier amenities, stunning design, and unbeatable service.
With its iconic blue and gold branding, the Els Club name is a worldwide seal of quality, promising golfers an experience that’s nothing short of exceptional.
Renowned for its signature blue and gold branding, the Els Club is a global benchmark for excellence, ensuring golfers an unparalleled experience.
A Vision Realised
“This one is really special,” said Els, reflecting on the milestone. “We’ve kept this project under wraps, knowing the significance of the property in the eyes of the golfing public.
I’ve loved the challenge of creating something exceptional for this part of the world – and I can’t wait for people to see it.”
Els’ involvement goes beyond his name; he has been directly overseeing the redesign of the iconic Victoria Course, a former Portugal Masters venue.
Acquired by Arrow Global in 2023 as part of a broader Vilamoura investment, the course will now become a signature venue for the Els Club Vilamoura.
Els and his award-winning design team have already broken ground, working in collaboration with DETAILS, Arrow Global’s sports and hospitality management company.
“Any time you get the chance to work with an ownership group with a clear vision and mission, it allows us to focus our creative efforts in how we architect a product and experience that will stand the test of time.
The Algarve, and in particular Vilamoura, are outstanding destinations and for me to see The Els Club proposition take its first steps in this market is a watershed moment and we couldn’t be prouder,” Els continued.
Redefining Golf in the Algarve
The Els Club Vilamoura will introduce a level of luxury and exclusivity unprecedented in the Algarve.
Founder Members will enjoy privileged access to a golf course that reflects Els’ championship pedigree.
“Whenever we design a golf course, we always have the eye on what makes it a championship golf course.
Most of our courses, thankfully, have hosted events; whether that’s on the PGA Tour, Asian Tour, DP World Tour, or Latin American Tour.
Most of our courses have had championships of some calibre and this is going to be no different with an exclusive, customized experience for all members,” Els emphasized.
His connection to the region is deeply personal. “When the kids were small, we lived in England and could come down to this area for summer holidays.
We would come down and play golf in the courses in Vilamoura. So, when the opportunity came up, through DETAILS, it really made sense to me. When I come here, I feel like I’m coming home,” he shared.
A Transformational Project
Ernie Els, the mastermind behind gems like Wentworth’s West Course—home to the BMW PGA Championship—has a knack for crafting courses that stand the test of time.
For the Vilamoura project, he’s found an ideal partner in Arrow Global, whose shared vision is driving the creation of a truly transformative golf experience.
For this project, Arrow Global has provided the perfect partnership, offering a shared vision for a transformative golf experience.
Nuno Sepúlveda, Co-CEO of DETAILS, highlighted the project’s significance: “It is a real honour and privilege to work with Ernie Els on this extraordinary private club which will offer members a new level of service and privacy previously unattainable in the Algarve.
The Els Club Vilamoura will reflect his passion and demand for excellence in everything we do.”
Beyond Golf: A Multi-Purpose Destination
The Els Club Vilamoura is more than a golf course; it is part of a broader vision for Vilamoura. Owned by funds managed by Arrow Global, the club complements the region’s equestrian centre, hotels, and new residential developments.
Together, these assets create a year-round destination, attracting a diverse clientele and fostering long-term growth.
As the Algarve’s first private members-only golf club, the Els Club Vilamoura represents a watershed moment for the region, blending tradition, innovation, and exclusivity.
For More Information
For more information on The Els Club Vilamoura, please visit here.
