Palheiro Golf expansion set to elevate Madeira’s golf scene
Golf in Madeira is poised for another step forward after Palheiro Golf revealed plans for a new boutique hotel and a modern driving range and academy that aim to elevate the island’s golfing experience. The latest Palheiro Golf expansion is set to strengthen the resort’s position as one of Madeira’s most distinctive golf destinations.
The development marks a significant move for the resort which sits alongside Clube de Golf Santo da Serra and Porto Santo Golfe as one of the Portuguese archipelago’s leading golf venues. Together these destinations have helped position Madeira as one of Europe’s fastest growing golf escapes.
The new projects, part of the wider Palheiro Golf expansion, will introduce fresh accommodation and advanced practice facilities designed to enrich the experience for both members and visiting golfers.
A scenic course above Funchal
Just a 10-minute drive from Funchal, the course sits nearly 1,640 ft above sea level and offers sweeping views across Madeira’s rugged mountain landscape and the Atlantic Ocean. The par-72 layout stretches 6,656 yards and was crafted by respected golf architect Cabell Robinson within the historic Palheiro Nature Estate, an estate with more than 200 years of history.
Boutique hotel to expand resort accommodation
The resort already features the five-star Hotel Casa Velha do Palheiro, located beside the golf course. Now Palheiro plans to broaden its accommodation portfolio with a new four-star boutique hotel as part of the continuing Palheiro Golf expansion.
The proposed development, currently awaiting final approval from the Funchal City Council, will include 29 rooms and is planned for a site close to the golf clubhouse. Once completed it is expected to provide visitors with another elegant option within the estate.
Driving range and academy central to the Palheiro Golf expansion
Investment will not stop there. Construction on a new academy and driving range is scheduled to begin later this year, another key stage of the Palheiro Golf expansion.
The facility will feature 16 bays split between eight outdoor and eight covered practice areas alongside a dedicated club-fitting zone and the latest ball-tracking technology. A new food-and-beverage area will also be included creating a lively hub that blends serious practice with social atmosphere and community access.
Vision for a modern golf academy
Jonathan Fletcher, administrator of Palheiro Nature Estate, said:
“We are excited to be moving forward with these new developments at Palheiro Nature Estate. While the hotel project is still in its infancy, it represents our commitment to enhancing the island’s tourism offering.
“With regard to the new academy and driving range, our vision is to create a high-tech, welcoming environment that appeals to both seasoned golfers and those looking for a more relaxed, social experience. By integrating advanced tracking technology with premium service, we are setting a new standard for golf practice in Madeira.”
Madeira golf expansion continues across the islands
The announcement comes amid wider investment across the island’s golf sector as Madeira continues to strengthen its reputation among travelling golfers.
The destination recently confirmed plans to introduce 36 additional holes across the islands in the coming years, underlining the scale of Madeira’s ongoing golf expansion.
A fourth golf venue is scheduled to open in 2027 when an 18-hole championship course designed by six-time Major winner Nick Faldo debuts at Ponta do Pargo. At the same time authorities have also outlined plans for two new nine-hole courses at Clube de Golf Santo da Serra and Porto Santo Golfe.
Golf experiences beyond the fairways
The archipelago’s combination of dramatic scenery, relaxed island culture and memorable golf experiences has already been highlighted in our feature “Magical Madeira: Golf and Experiences That Exceed Expectations.”
Visiting Madeira with the Golf Passport
For visiting golfers the Madeira Golf Passport remains one of the most popular ways to experience the destination. The package offers three rounds of golf at either Clube de Golf Santo da Serra or Palheiro Golf from €290 per person and includes complimentary transfers between hotel and course. Golfers can also upgrade the pass to add additional rounds and a visit to Porto Santo Golfe.
For more information on Madeira visit Everything you’re into. – Visit Madeira .
Related: Praia D’El Rey Named Portugal’s Top Golf Resort in European Rankings
Palheiro Golf unveils boutique hotel and academy plans – key details
- New boutique hotel with 29 rooms planned near the Palheiro Golf clubhouse.
- State-of-the-art driving range and academy with 16 practice bays and ball-tracking technology.
- Part of wider Madeira golf growth including new courses planned across the islands.
