West Palm Beach, Florida, United States: Greg Norman Golf Course Design has confirmed the official start to construction of Mar de Indias Golf Club, the firm’s first design in Colombia.
Located just outside Cartagena, the 18-hole, par-72, 6,800-yard course will feature panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea on over half the course and a diverse eco-system, home to thousands of species of plants and trees.
The trade winds will play an important role in the dune-like design and overall playability of the course, adding an extra challenge to the layout’s undulating and hilly terrain.
An eco-sensitive design, Mar de Indias Golf Club will be grassed with Sea Dwarf Paspalum and will maintain the integrity of the land in keeping native vegetation and natural surrounds as a hallmark of the course.
Not just a haven for golfers, the course is also a sanctuary for Colombia’s wildlife, including monkeys, birds and native fauna keeping habitat throughout.
“With its stunning landscape and rich culture, Cartagena is one of the most incredible destinations on the continent,” said Greg Norman, whose design company is a Full Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to build a diverse and ecologically sound golf course here that will be the centrepiece of one of the premier destinations in all of Cartagena.”
Six holes (1, 2, 15, 16, 17 and 18) and the driving range will be grassed by the end of growing season 2017 with plans for a full nine-hole opening next year. Bulk earth works, excavation and the irrigation lake are well underway.
“Greg Norman Golf Course Design will be integral to our recognition as a world-leading golf destination and we are excited to have them as partners as we develop the next great residential community in South America,” said Santiago Ordonez, Mar de Indias Project Manager.
Mar de Indias Golf & Beach Resort is a master planned real estate development located a short distance from the historic centre of Cartagena. Home to nearly 750 acres of unspoiled natural beauty, the diverse landscape features a natural forest preserve, white sand beaches, mangroves and lakes.
Norman also brings his global portfolio of luxury branded real estate to Mar de Indias with Del Mar Residences & Golf by Greg Norman. The 57 spacious, custom villas are situated on the Norman-designed golf course and feature architecture and interior design by the Norman Design Group.
Owners will have access to an array of amenities including the Beach Club, Norman-designed clubhouse, spa, dining, tennis, pools, state-of-the-art fitness centre, watersports and more.