In Business to Conserve: Espiche Golf, Western Algarve
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When Peter Tacon Thornton, Paul Langley and Rob Cawthorn first set eyes on the site at Bago de Uva, which is part of an Ecological Reserve in Algarve, Portugal, they knew they had stumbled onto something special. While the lot was not specifically set aside for protection, they were very aware of the need to take actions that would protect the water lens aquifer that is beneath the karst formations made of limestone forming the foundation of the natural landscape.
While their vision was for a spectacular golf course, a par 72, 18 hole design, they were also deeply impacted with their new roles as guardians of such a precious resource that the land itself represented. Working with University of the Algarve, these three men followed a strict set of guidelines in planning and maintaining their vision for Espiche Golf, as the course is now affectionately known as.
The vision that fueled these three men was communicated to a world class designer of golf courses, the architect, Peter Sauerman, from South Africa. The resulting landscaped course blends with the wild habitat in a nestled fashion, relying on the natural lay of the land to provide plenty of challenges for any level of golfer. Construction of the course was carefully considered to reduce the impact on the landscape, using a small staff of dedicated builders from start to finish. Not only are there preserved natural plants carefully tended to maintain their health and beauty, but the views are consistently protected to ensure that each hole has a unique charm.
By working with the University of Algarve, the course incorporates several key elements in design and planting choices which not only blend with the native landscape but enhance it. The integration of these elements, including such things as a unique selection of grass blends that suit the native environment and the wear and tear that a golf course is subjected to, is designed to allow for an environmentally sound maintenance system that will preserve the fragile morphology that underlays the rolling fairways. In addition to the oversight of the University, the ecological program that is being followed must withstand the rigors of the standards set in place by Algarve’s Commission for Regional Development (CCDRA).
The background of the site itself, which was untouched for hundreds of years, means that not only is there limited erosion, but that the local water supply's safety is determined by how the topsoil and bedrock is treated. Being aware of this factor is one reason that the owners of Espiche Golf take their role in research of the environment in this area so seriously. Ensuring that the future water supply remains pure and the landscape around the golf course untainted by their upkeep is of primary, vital, importance.
Often overlooked in such considerations at other golf courses are plants and pest management tasks that are often compounded by the introduction of non-native species. In order to minimize this, the greens are planted with a mixture of Paspalum while the fairways and elsewhere have Bermuda grass. Combining these grass choices with native plants and choices that are local to the area over exotic species has created a course that is compatible with the natural ecological foundation of the area.
This does not come at a sacrifice to the game of golf however. The stunning surroundings are enhanced by the play, with the land itself lending much to the experience. In addition to the 18 holes, par 72 course, there is a central office, a driving range, and a shaded relaxation area with beverage service. Future plans include a full service clubhouse, pro shop, putting greens, and an expanded hotel and villa area with rooms for rent or sale in Espiche Golf village.
While Espiche Golf is a business, and offers golfers a chance to play their game in a new and challenging setting, it also has the ethos that keeps the course in harmony with the fragile local environment. Currently open to the public at promotional rates, the course will continue to provide a model for how sport complexes can enhance, rather then detract, from the native health of fragile areas.
Additional information about this stunning development, including current pricing, course layout, and reservation information is available at www.espiche-golf.com.
For information of property for sale in Portugal contact the Algarve property team via email at: info@portugalproperty.com or call free on +44 (0) 800 0148201
Published in: News and Updates