Alentejo pushes golf as tourism growth driver

Portugal’s tourism authorities are stepping up their focus on golf in Alentejo after the region posted 25.2% growth in the sport in the first half of 2026, positioning it as a new tourism driver beyond the Algarve. The push will be highlighted this weekend when Comporta’s Pinheirinho course hosts the Portugal Legends Championship, its first official tournament and first opening to the public.

Turismo de Portugal is investing €300,000 in the event, while Turismo do Alentejo is contributing another €35,000. The tournament will run from October 30 to November 1 and is expected to bring together 60 players from 15 nationalities, including former champions such as Paul McGinley, Paul Lawrie, Michael Campbell and Portugal’s Nuno Campino. Entry will be free and the winner will receive €450,000.

Carlos Abade, head of Turismo de Portugal, said the aim is for golf to become “a lever for Alentejo’s overall growth” and part of a broader strategy to position Portugal as a quality tourism destination rather than one focused on volume. José Santos, head of Turismo do Alentejo, said the region is preparing a joint commercial plan for four courses within a 30-kilometre radius in the Comporta area.

The Pinheirinho course, built 15 years ago but never previously opened to the public, is part of Vic Properties’ wider Pinheirinho development in Comporta. It is currently under works and is due to reopen to the public in March 2027. According to the company, access will include memberships, green fees or use by guests staying within the Pinheirinho complex.

Originally published at Eco.pt