Aroeira Pines Classic Review
Aroeira Pines Classic is set in a magnificent area of protected pine woodland close to the coastal town of Caparica.
Think of tall, towering pine trees and it’s a fair chance that, as a golfer, your mind will immediately conjure up visions of The Masters and the hallowed fairways of Augusta National, writes Rory Anderson.
But the good news for players in the UK and Europe is that you don’t have to venture across to America for such a spectacular setting and golf treat, and there’s a golf course that fits the bill that lies very much closer to home.
Scroll below for Rory's video review...
Where is Aroeira Pines Classic?
Situated only 25km from the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, Aroeira Pines Classic (formerly called Aroeira I) is set in a magnificent area of protected pine woodland close to the coastal town of Caparica.
Having been affectionately christened the ‘Wentworth of Lisbon’ by the UK media when it first came to prominence, I was particularly eager to visit to see what all the fuss was about, and golfers will not be disappointed with what they find.
Related: Aroeira - discover your perfect golf getaway in the stunning city of Lisbon
Related: Aroeira Challenge Review
Which big tournaments has Aroeira Pines Classic hosted?
Chosen as the host venue for the Portuguese Open in 1996 and 1997 and ranked in Golf World magazine’s latest list of the Top 100 Courses in continental Europe, Aroeira Pines Classic has also staged several Ladies’ European Tour events in its prestigious history as well as numerous other high-profile events, with Aroeira’s mild climate allowing for golf to be played all-year round.
Aroeira Pines Classic: Key Stats
AROEIRA PINES CLASSIC | |
Opened | 1973 |
Par | 72 |
Yardage | 6650 yards |
Architect | Frank Pennink |
Director | Carlos Fonseca |
Head Greenkeeper | Joaquin Serrano |
The par-72 layout was designed by Frank Pennink and opened in 1973. Played through tall avenues of pine forest where you are surrounded by wildlife and nature, the course measures up to 6,650 yards off the tips and the emphasis is very much on accuracy and placement off the tee if you’re to score well.
What are the standout holes at Aroeira Pines Classic?
Most amateur golfers, including myself, automatically reach for the big stick when standing on the tee of a par four or par five, and there are plenty of rewards to be had here if you find the middle of the fairway off the tee. The key, though, is not to let temptation get the better of you and to choose your moments when you want to be aggressive with your shot selection wisely, with numerous pines and water hazards lying in wait for any balls straying offline.
With each hole beautifully framed, it’s not an easy job selecting your favourite holes but, if pushed, I would plump for the third, a sweeping par-four dogleg from right to left; the 11th, a long par four with a large lake waiting on the left-side of the green to swallow up any errant approaches; and the picture-postcard short 14th where water protects a putting surface.
Aroeira Pines Classic: Verdict
With a variety of tees available, the course is eminently playable for golfers of all ages and abilities, and the great news is that Aroeira Pines Classic is set to get even better from this year with the layout being treated to a significant upgrade by its new management company.
Investment to improve the bunkers, tees, greens, irrigation system and landscaping are just some of the changes planned to enhance the playing experience, while other improvements being made will include upgrades to the practice facilities and golf equipment on offer.
It all sounds fantastic and I, for one, can’t wait!
WATCH RORY'S VIDEO REVIEW BELOW
