Ombria represents a masterclass in sustainable golf design, where Jorge Santana da Silva has crafted an environmentally conscious championship test that seamlessly integrates ancient landscape features with modern strategic demands. This Par 71 layout offers two distinct nine-hole experiences that challenge accuracy over distance whilst showcasing the Algarve's inland beauty.
Ombria Golf Course
Ombria represents a masterclass in sustainable golf design, where Jorge Santana da Silva has crafted an environmentally conscious championship test that seamlessly integrates ancient landscape features with modern strategic demands. This Par 71 layout offers two distinct nine-hole experiences that challenge accuracy over distance whilst showcasing the Algarve's inland beauty.
The Golf Course at Ombria, designed by renowned Portuguese architect Jorge Santana da Silva, opened in April 2023 as an 18-hole, Par 71 signature course situated near Loulé, just thirty minutes north of Faro airport. Measuring 5,800 metres from the back tees, the course plays to a par of 71 (36 out, 35 in) with holes arranged in two distinct returning nines.
This championship layout was designed around a former fruit farm, transforming 153 hectares into natural landscapes whilst preserving archaeological remains discovered during construction. The course has achieved prestigious GEO Foundation certification, reflecting its commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable golf practices.
Santana da Silva's design philosophy at Ombria centres on harmony between golf and the natural environment. The architect preserved the old water resource systems and existing constructions, including levadas, noras, old lime kilns, tanks and walls, all carefully restored and integrated into the golf course design. This approach has created what is essentially a self-sufficient water system that operates year-round.
The course features a distinctive dual-grass system that creates both aesthetic appeal and strategic clarity. Bermuda grass dominates the fairways whilst Bent grass covers the rough and greens, producing a striking two-tone visual effect that aids shot visualisation and course management. The greens are notably large and bouncy, with undulations ranging from obvious to subtle, requiring careful reading and precision putting.
The outward nine occupies a narrow valley running along an east-west axis, demanding precision over power. This section includes back-to-back par threes on the 4th and 5th holes, both featuring elevated tees that offer panoramic views but require careful club selection. The opening two holes are both par 5s, with the second presenting the course's most formidable challenge—a beautiful yet complex hole featuring three water hazards affecting the tee shot, second shot, and approach to the green.
The climbing terrain on holes 3 and 5 provides spectacular elevated tee positions, though these areas require heightened awareness when the course is busy due to potential blind zones. The ninth hole serves as a dramatic conclusion to the front nine—a par 4 rated stroke index one that doglegs around an edifice with water guarding the entire left side of the hole.
Holes 10-18 are situated on separate terrain south of the resort hub, offering a more relaxed and wider playing experience at par 35. This nine features three par 3s and only two par 5s, creating interesting variety in hole lengths and strategic demands.
The downhill par 4 10th provides an excellent opening to the inward half, whilst the par 5 12th demands particular attention on the second shot, where the terrain slopes extremely steeply from right to left. The 12th hole is rated stroke index 2, representing one of the course's most difficult challenges. The slight dogleg right par 4 15th offers options for aggressive or conservative play, and the downhill par 5 16th features strategic tree placement that can block wayward shots whilst rewarding proper positioning.
The course maintenance standards are exemplary, with the greens offering excellent roll quality and consistent speeds that can challenge even experienced players. The large, undulating putting surfaces demand respect and careful study, as misjudged approach shots can result in lengthy putts across multiple tiers.
The dual-grass system not only provides visual appeal but also affects playing conditions, with the Bermuda fairways offering different ball reactions compared to the Bent grass rough. This variety adds another strategic element to club selection and course management.
Ombria's practice facilities complement the championship course with comprehensive training options. The resort features a 5-star Viceroy hotel with 141 guestrooms, suites and residences, plus more than 300 apartments and villas. The development includes multiple dining options, heated swimming pools, spa facilities, and extensive recreational amenities that position Ombria as a complete golf destination rather than merely a day-play venue.
The course represents a benchmark in sustainable golf development, with over 1,800 linear metres of riparian habitat restored and rehabilitated, plus 18,000 square metres of riverside habitat preserved. More than 700 native oak trees were planted on-site, whilst on-site plant nurseries were created to future-proof the landscape areas with locally grown native flora.
This environmental stewardship extends beyond mere compliance, creating a course that feels authentically integrated into the Algarve's inland landscape rather than imposed upon it.
Located in the heart of the Algarve's interior, Ombria offers a compelling alternative to the region's predominantly coastal golf offerings. The course provides an authentic Portuguese golf experience that emphasises the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage whilst delivering championship-level challenges.
The resort's position near traditional villages with cobblestone streets and surrounded by citrus groves, fig and carob trees creates an immersive experience that extends well beyond the golf course boundaries.
Ombria succeeds brilliantly in its mission to create a brilliant golf course within its challenging but beautiful terrain. Santana da Silva has crafted a layout that rewards strategic thinking and precise execution whilst punishing careless play. The course's emphasis on accuracy over distance makes it accessible to various skill levels whilst providing sufficient challenge for serious golfers and tournament play.
The two distinct nine-hole experiences ensure that players face constantly changing demands, preventing monotony and requiring continuous adaptation of strategy and club selection. The elevated tee positions provide not only strategic advantages but also showcase the stunning Algarve countryside in a manner that few golf courses achieve.
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