Viceroy Hotel Opens Its Doors in Algarve, Fresh on the Scene
Ombria Golf Course in Portugal Achieves GEO Certification
Ombria Golf Course, nestled in the picturesque Algarve region of Portugal, has earned the esteemed GEO certification, recognizing its commitment to sustainable practices. This prestigious accolade reflects Ombria's dedication to environmentally friendly golf course management, biodiversity, and reduced environmental impact.
The course's design, masterminded by Portuguese architect Jorge Santana da Silva, seamlessly integrates natural elements such as streams, rolling hills, and olive groves. These features are not just aesthetically pleasing, but also serve a vital role in ecological restoration and preservation.
One of the key aspects of Ombria's sustainability efforts is its focus on habitat restoration. The river habitats have been carefully restored, and 700 oak trees have been planted, contributing significantly to local biodiversity and landscape character.
Moreover, Ombria has adopted renewable energy sources, including solar and geothermal energy, to minimize its reliance on fossil fuels. This move reduces the carbon footprint of the golf course, further highlighting its commitment to sustainability.
The clubhouse castle-top terrace offers a perfect spot to enjoy the glorious sunsets, mountain views, and a selection of cocktails, craft beers, or fine local wines. The terrace also houses Case E Fora restaurant, serving classic bar food with a delightful Portuguese twist.
Golfers can also look forward to challenging holes such as the 18th, a short, downhill par-4 that presents a chance for a closing birdie but requires careful sand negotiation. The course also features back-to-back par 3s at the 4th and 5th holes.
For those seeking further dining and relaxation options, the Viceroy at Ombria Algarve hotel offers six additional restaurants and bars, serving regional wines and locally inspired dishes, some of which feature home-grown produce. The hotel's Spa by Viceroy boasts an indoor thermal pool, perfect for unwinding after a round of golf.
The Viceroy at Ombria Algarve hotel's location allows golfers to stay close to the course, ensuring a hassle-free golfing experience. Ombria golf course, which opened in 2023, is Robert Trent Jones Senior's latest design, and it showcases his mentor, Jorge Santana da Silva's, vision for sustainable golf course development in the Algarve region.
[1] Ombria Golf Course's sustainability efforts: https://ombriagolf.com/sustainability/
Golf is not just a sport at Ombria Golf Course; it's a commitment to environmental stewardship. The course, with its focus on habitat restoration and renewable energy sources, demonstrates a dedication to sports that goes beyond the game itself and into the realm of sustainable practices.
The golf course's design, harmonizing with natural elements like streams and olive groves, can be considered a unique fusion of sports and nature, making it a standout golf course that also serves as a sanctuary for biodiversity.
