Santo da Serra Golf Club
Two major international events
In addition to welcoming the World Golf Awards for the second consecutive year, Madeira will host the conference as a preamble GCAE, (Golf Course Association Europe) November 10th and 12th. The Portuguese archipelago will have the honor of bringing together European golf facility leaders at the continent’s only event dedicated to those who manage and operate golf facilities.
GCAE Conference Dates and Program
Taking place from 10th and the 12th of November, the GCAE conference offers golf operators from across Europe the opportunity to meet to exchange ideas, build strategic partnerships and invest in the future of their facilities.
In addition to two days of meetings and networking at theSavoy Palace Hotel from Funchal, the capital of Madeira, this year’s event also offers delegates the opportunity to play golf at Santo da Serra Golf Club – one of three outstanding golf venues in Madeira – and to inspect the new 18-hole championship course at Ponta do Pargo, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, a six-time Major winner, scheduled to open in 2026.
“We are absolutely delighted that Madeira has been chosen to host this prestigious golf industry event. With the island’s dramatic clifftop backdrop, lush green landscapes, and world-class golf courses overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is the perfect setting for a world-class event, and we look forward to showcasing everything we have to offer to one of our markets.”
— Sara Marote, Director General of the Madeira Promotion Office
“Golf is growing, but so are the expectations placed on those who manage golf facilities on a daily basis. At GCAE, our role is to listen to golf professionals, connect them, inspire them, and advocate on their behalf. This conference provides an opportunity for frank dialogue and concrete solutions, so that each facility leaves with ideas to grow its business and the game.”
— Renate Roeleveld, CEO of the Golf Course Association Europe
Porto Santo
World Golf Awards 2025 in Funchal
Immediately following the GCAE conference, the World Golf Awards 2025 will be held in Funchal for the second consecutive year. In addition to Madeira, the three renowned golf courses – Palheiro Golf designed by Cabell B. Robinson, Clube de Golf Santo da Serra by Robert Trent Jones Snr and Porto Santo Golfe by Seve Ballesteros – are hoping to win prestigious awards at the event, which will be held on 12 and 13 November.
An ideal climate for golf all year round
Located approximately 1 km from the European continent – and only 000 km from the African continent – Madeira enjoys a surprisingly mild climate, ranging from 500°C in summer to 25°C in winter, with very mild average temperatures and moderate humidity, making it the ideal year-round location for a golf break.
Palheiro Golf (credit James Hogg)
The Madeira Golf Passport
For golfers looking for beautiful courses, the best way to discover these paradise islands is to subscribe to the Madeira Golf Passport, which includes three green fees at both Santo da Serra Golf Club and Palheiro Golf for just €280 per person. This passport, which includes free transfers between the course and the hotel, can be supplemented with additional rounds and a day at Porto Santo Golfe. It is expected to be expanded in 2026 with the addition of Ponta do Pargo to the golf offering.
For more information about Madeira, visit the official website.
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