By Kasturi Datta |
The North course at Monte Rei Golf & Country Club in the Algarve region of Portugal has reopened following a six-month renovation by Nicklaus Design.
The project came after Portuguese firm Details, backed by Arrow Global, acquired the club in January 2025. Recent investment at Monte Rei has also included a 100-room Nobu hotel, a new restaurant and residences.
“Monte Rei is one of Portugal and European golf’s most iconic venues and is a must-play course for anyone who loves golf,” said Nuno Sepúlveda, co-CEO of Details. “It was already a great design, so it was important that the work undertaken focused on renewing rather than reinventing it to restore the course to its former glory and put it back where it belongs.”
Work has included greens reconstruction, bunker upgrades, irrigation and pump station improvements, cart path refurbishment and enhancements to practice facilities.
Dirk Bouts of Nicklaus Design has overseen the renovation of Monte Rei’s North course, which has included work on greens (Photo: James Hogg)
“Jack Nicklaus and all of us at Nicklaus Design are extremely pleased with the renovation and restoration of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course at Monte Rei,” said Dirk Bouts, senior designer at the Nicklaus Design. “It is a golf course that Jack has always been immensely proud of, and nearly 20 years after its creation, it remains a very special place, reflecting Jack’s design philosophy and legacy.
“Closing the golf course for the past season provided the opportunity to undertake a comprehensive renovation and carefully restore many of the elements that have made Monte Rei such a special golf experience. The enlargement of numerous tees, the renovation and restoration of the greens and bunkers, together with the extensive clearing work throughout the property, have made a tremendous difference while ensuring that the integrity and character of Jack’s original design have been preserved.
“The result has brought the golf course back to the exceptional standard and presentation that were originally envisioned. We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved and very much look forward to seeing golfers return to Monte Rei and once again experience this remarkable golf course as Jack originally intended it to be played and enjoyed.”
Read more:
Monte Rei renovation planned to make course ‘more resilient’ (February 2026)