Oitavos Dunes

Lisbon
Portugal

Overview

Located along Portugal's dramatic Atlantic coastline near the picturesque town of Cascais, Oitavos Dunes is one of the country’s most prestigious and visually stunning golf courses. Designed by renowned architect Arthur Hills, this par-71 course is consistently ranked among the top 100 golf courses in the world, offering an unforgettable experience for golfers of all skill levels. With its natural beauty, challenging layout, and sustainable design, Oitavos Dunes is a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts looking to play on one of Europe’s most scenic courses.

One of the standout features of Oitavos Dunes is its location within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, a protected area known for its unspoiled beauty. The course is set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, with panoramic views of the coastline, rolling sand dunes, and the nearby Serra de Sintra mountain range. The unique setting provides a sense of tranquility and connection with nature, while the cool ocean breeze adds a refreshing element to every round.

Unlike many courses that have been heavily altered to fit a design, Oitavos Dunes has been carefully crafted to work in harmony with the natural landscape. The course weaves seamlessly through sand dunes, pine trees, and coastal vegetation, creating a layout that is as challenging as it is breathtaking. With spectacular ocean views from almost every hole, the course offers an unforgettable playing experience that reflects the natural beauty of Portugal's coast.

Designed by Arthur Hills, Oitavos Dunes is a strategic course that challenges golfers with its links-style design, undulating fairways, and strategically placed bunkers. The course is renowned for its fast, firm greens, which require precision and skill to master. Hills designed the course to be challenging for low-handicap players, while still providing an enjoyable experience for those with higher handicaps. The wide fairways and variety of tee boxes offer flexibility, ensuring that golfers of all abilities can enjoy the course.

The course’s design also makes excellent use of the natural landscape, with several holes playing along the coastline and others nestled among the rolling dunes and pine groves. The layout offers a unique mix of long, demanding holes and shorter, more strategic ones, keeping golfers on their toes throughout the round. One of the highlights of the course is the par-3 14th hole, which is perched on the edge of the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This signature hole is not only visually stunning but also requires accuracy to navigate its challenges.

Oitavos Dunes is not just a world-class golf course; it is also a leader in environmental sustainability. The course was the first in Europe, and the second in the world, to earn "Certified Signature Sanctuary" status from Audubon International, a prestigious recognition for courses that demonstrate a commitment to preserving the natural environment. Oitavos Dunes has been designed and managed to minimize its environmental impact, using natural resources efficiently and protecting local ecosystems.

The course’s natural habitat is home to a variety of plant and animal species, and the management team works hard to maintain the delicate balance between golf and nature. This dedication to sustainability not only preserves the beauty of the course but also enhances the golfing experience, allowing players to enjoy the pristine environment in which they are playing.

Oitavos Dunes offers more than just a beautiful and challenging golf course; it provides an exceptional overall experience for players. The course is part of the exclusive Oitavos Hotel, a five-star luxury resort that caters to golfers and leisure travelers alike. Guests staying at the hotel have direct access to the course, along with a range of world-class amenities, including fine dining, a spa, and luxury accommodations.

The club facilities at Oitavos Dunes are also top-notch, with a stylish clubhouse offering panoramic views of the course and ocean. The clubhouse features a pro shop stocked with the latest golf gear and apparel, as well as locker rooms, a bar, and a restaurant where players can relax after a round and enjoy a meal or drink while taking in the stunning surroundings.

The practice facilities at Oitavos Dunes are designed to help golfers sharpen their game, with a driving range, short game area, and putting green available for use. The course also offers professional coaching and golf clinics, making it an ideal destination for those looking to improve their skills.

Oitavos Dunes has established itself as a premier destination for golf tournaments and events. Its world-class design and facilities have attracted numerous prestigious competitions, including the Portuguese Open and the European Tour. The course's challenging layout, combined with its breathtaking scenery, makes it an attractive choice for both professional and amateur events.

For those planning a golf trip or corporate outing, Oitavos Dunes offers customized packages that include accommodation at The Oitavos Hotel, green fees, and access to all of the resort’s amenities. Whether it’s a casual group outing or a more formal corporate event, Oitavos Dunes provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience.

In addition to the incredible golfing experience, Oitavos Dunes is located near some of Portugal’s most attractive destinations. The vibrant town of Cascais is just a short drive away, offering a mix of traditional Portuguese charm and modern amenities, including beaches, restaurants, and shopping. Visitors can also explore the nearby city of Lisbon, which is less than 30 minutes away by car, or the beautiful Sintra region, known for its historic palaces and stunning landscapes.

For golf enthusiasts, Oitavos Dunes is part of the Lisbon Golf Coast, a collection of some of the finest golf courses in Europe. With a variety of world-class courses in close proximity, Cascais and the surrounding area offer a true golfer’s paradise, where visitors can enjoy a diverse range of playing experiences.












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