PALO ALTO, Calif. (Oct. 21, 2026) – Robert Trent Jones II Golf Course Architects (RTJ II) is completing a series of enhancements at Palmares Ocean Living & Golf, advancing the firm’s original design vision for the acclaimed 27-hole resort in Portugal’s Algarve region.
Working with Palmares and its management company, Details – Hospitality, Sports, Leisure, RTJ II has guided improvements across the Alvor, Lagos and Praia nine-hole loops to increase enjoyment and strategic interest for golfers of all abilities while improving course conditioning, infrastructure and environmental performance.
The work includes wider fairways, expanded short-grass areas around greens, updated tee surfaces, renovated and repositioned bunkers, a new short-game area and a larger putting green. Revised irrigation and maintenance practices aim to reduce the total irrigated area by 20 percent, improve water efficiency and lower operating costs.
Bruce Charlton, president of RTJ II, said: “Palmares occupies an extraordinary coastal landscape, and our approach has been to strengthen the qualities that make the course memorable while creating more options and enjoyment for a wider range of players.
“We’ve increased the ‘fun factor’ for golfers of all skill levels by widening fairways and incorporating short grass as a defense instead of sand bunkers on many green complexes. We’ve also updated tee surfaces and bunkers, always respecting the character and strategic intent of the original design.”
Set within the natural amphitheater of the Bay of Lagos, Palmares was redesigned in 2011 by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and the team at RTJ II. Its three distinct nine-hole loops combine parkland and links-style golf as they descend toward the Atlantic Ocean.
The enhancements build on that heritage: wider landing areas and closely mown surrounds provide more options into the greens, while selected bunkers are refined in keeping with RTJ II’s strategy. The goal is to improve playability without diminishing the course’s challenge, identity or dramatic setting.
Nuno Sepulveda, co-CEO at Details – Hospitality, Sports, Leisure, said: “This work reflects a much bigger vision for Palmares. RTJ II’s expertise has helped us enhance the playing experience and modernize the course while preserving what makes the property so distinctive.
“With improved playability, upgraded facilities and more efficient infrastructure, Palmares is better positioned to realize its potential as one of Europe’s leading golf and lifestyle destinations.”
Originally launched as an 18-hole course in 1975, Palmares has developed into an integrated 200-hectare resort overlooking Meia Praia and the Alvor estuary. RTJ II’s 2011 redesign created the current 27-hole configuration.
The resort also features an award-winning clubhouse, the signature restaurant Preceito, Signature Residences and the Palmares Beach House Hotel. Palmares is a member of the European Tour Destinations network, and a JW Marriott hotel is scheduled to open at the resort in 2028.
Palmares Ocean Living & Golf is managed by Details – Hospitality, Sports, Leisure, part of Arrow Global’s portfolio in Portugal. It is one of 13 golf venues in the Details portfolio, alongside Vilamoura Golf, PGA Aroeira Lisboa, Tróia Golf, Monte Rei, San Lorenzo, Vale Pisão and Costa Ragusa Golf in Sicily.
For more information about RTJ II courses, award-winning sustainable designs, visionary water conservation, and world-class tournament venues, visit the company’s website at www.rtj2.com.
About Robert Trent Jones II Golf Course Architects
With headquarters in Palo Alto, Calif., Robert Trent Jones II Golf Course Architects (RTJ II) is the preeminent golf design firm worldwide, having created 300 courses in 50 countries on six continents. Trustees of a great tradition of golf course architecture, RTJ II is committed to working in harmony with nature to craft the best golf course on each unique site. The RTJ II design team has experience in every aspect of golf course development and the ability to provide support and expertise from conception through completion of any project. For additional information, visit the RTJ II website at www.rtj2.com or contact the firm at +1 650-475-0329 or info@rtj2.com.
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