PGA Aroeira No. 1

Overview: PGA Aroeira No. 1, also identified as Aroeira Pines Classic, is a Frank Pennink design in the pine forest of Herdade da Aroeira south of Lisbon. The par-72 routing uses woodland as its principal architectural material: fairways narrow between mature trees, lakes alter the safest line, and the pine canopy makes position important from the opening tee. The course is often called the Wentworth of Lisbon, but its real identity comes from the firm, tree-lined rhythm and the way small changes in angle affect the approach.

History: Aroeira No. 1 opened in 1973 and became the first of the resort’s two 18-hole championship courses. It hosted the Portuguese Open in 1996 and 1997 and the European Men’s Club Trophy in 2013. The operator has also documented a recent improvement project involving bunkers, irrigation, and landscape work. The current course is therefore Pennink’s original routing with carefully managed modern updates.

Did You Know? The Aroeira estate covers a large area of pine woodland close to the Atlantic beaches, yet the course does not rely on exposed seaside terrain for its character. The forest creates framed tee shots and shaded approaches, while five lakes provide contrasting open sightlines. That mix explains why the course can feel natural and exacting within the same round.