Golf Legend Ernie Els Brings First Private Club Concept to Europe
In a move that’s sending ripples through the golfing community, the towering figure of golf, Ernie Els, has been announced as the architect of Europe’s first Els Club. This exciting development marks the opening of the first private members’ golf club in a popular golf destination. Golf enthusiasts are buzzing with anticipation as the club is set to bring high-end luxury and top-notch facilities to the era of golf in Europe.
Four-Time Major Champion Takes New Territory
At 55, Els isn’t just resting on his previous accolades. A member of the World Golf Hall of Fame, and a former World No.1, he boasts a remarkable tally of 28 European Tour wins and 19 on the PGA Tour! Add to that two celebrated wins each at the U.S. Open and The Open, and it’s clear this golfing giant knows his way around the greens.
The upcoming club, set to launch in Summer 2025, will be known as The Els Club Vilamoura, an exclusive opportunity for a select group of Founder Members. “This one is really special,” Els exclaimed, showcasing his excitement for this project. “We knew the significance of this site and wanted to deliver something extraordinary.”
Transforming a Former Gem
What makes this project even more fascinating is that Els has been tapped to redesign the Victoria Course, previously a prominent location for the annual Portugal Masters. The course was acquired as part of a significant investment into the area in 2023, showcasing how much importance is being placed on elevating golf in the region. With the groundbreaking already completed, Els and his talented design team are meticulously crafting this golf haven.
The Vision Behind the Design
When it comes to creating an exceptional golfing experience, Els emphasizes a focus on the elements that make a course worthy of championship play. He mentioned, “We always have an eye on creating championship caliber courses. This club will offer a custom experience for its members, something that is truly exclusive.”
The excitement doesn’t just stem from the club itself; it reflects a legendary golfer’s ties to the area. Els shared, “When my children were young, we would travel here during the summer for holidays. This place feels like home.” His passion for golf and this region is deeply intertwined.
Collaboration for Excellence
Teaming up with DETAILS, the management company behind several hospitality and sports assets in the region, Els believes that this partnership is pivotal. Nuno Sepúlveda, co-CEO of DETAILS, remarked on the privilege of working with someone of Els’ caliber on such an exclusive club that will set new standards for service and privacy, unprecedented in the area.
A Culinary and Recreational Haven
The Els Club Vilamoura is not only about golf but includes plans for a variety of luxury offerings, helping the region become a fully-fledged multi-use resort. With golf courses, equestrian centers, hotels, and residential areas, the establishment aims to draw different crowds and maintain value all year round. It’s an ambitious project that promises elevated golf experiences, fine dining, and much more.
As the golf world keeps its eyes peeled on this development, one thing is clear: Ernie Els is not just building a golf course. He’s cementing a legacy and creating a community dedicated to the love of golf.
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
