Developments
GEO Certified Development 11/2022
65ha of juniperus spp (Zimbral) habitat preserved and enhanced.
Over 400,000 native plant species have been planted around the golf course.
Sand found on-site was used for 100% of the tees and fairways.
A sustainability fund was established which puts money directly into the local community, benefiting those in need.
This project has resulted in a world-class golf course being created which sits perfectly on the land. The project has and continues to contribute to the local area in a number of ways and it is evident this part of the world is better off for the creation of this club. The key achievement for me is the focus on naturalising the out of play areas with indigenous and sometimes endangered species, creating some valuable habitat for local birds and animals.
David Bily - Independent Verifier - CostaTerra Golf & Ocean Club
Situated on the Portuguese coastline CostaTerra Golf and Ocean Club perfectly combines memorable golf, with breathtaking scenery and a deep routed respect for the environment it is part of. Throughout its design and construction the project team has displayed their commitment to all aspects of sustainability and have worked to create a truly wonderful golf course.
CostaTerra has prioritised environmental protection and enhancement leaving large areas of the site to nature. The ‘Zimbral’ area is of particular significance where this unique and special habitat is being proactively managed to reduce invasive species and promote the native juniper plant. The club are working with local universities to help better understand this habitat and how the species can be more successfully propagated.
CostaTerra has found a way to provide an exclusive golfer experience while still contributing in numerous ways to the local community and leaving a positive legacy.
Having visited the site a number of times over the years, it is hard to imagine a more natural site for golf than this in Portugal. The natural rolling high dune terrain, once smothered by plantation pines is now revealed. What we have seen is one of the biggest habitat restoration efforts on any golf development using the Portuguese native plant assemblage with hundreds of thousands of Juniperetum, Ameria and Erica spp. In time, we expect the course will mature and further embedded itself into this native coastal habitat.
Sam Thomas, Director of Golf Developments for GEO Foundation
Costa Terra Golf is certain to be one of the finest golf enclaves in the world! It is located in an absolutely amazing environment for golf with the rolling sand hills, native trees, and stunning views. We have been extremely focused on protecting the natural environment on this project and letting the existing terrain and natural features of the property guide the golf course through the property. This golf course is a masterpiece of design and environmental management that fits the land seamlessly. Discovery Land always approaches their projects with a total commitment to the highest standards of quality and service and CostaTerra will be no exception.
Fazio Design, Course Architect Team
