Playing golf since 1971, and in golf course design projects since 1991, Sir Nick Faldo has probably seen everything about courses but not cave on a course!

Sir Nick Faldo shared a video on his social media on Dec 23, discovering hidden caves while exploring land for a new golf course project at Ponta do Pargo on the westernmost point of Madeira Island, Portugal.

“We found some hidden caves while building our new golf course,” he said in the video.

A person walking alongside Faldo in the video explained that the caves were uncovered during early land shaping, when the site was being cut as part of the initial work.

As the group discussed the discovery, someone off-camera told a Fisherman's tale, saying they were where “the smugglers used to bring their rum in before they played a quick nine.”

The project marks Madeira’s first new golf course in more than 20 years. Located at Ponta do Pargo on the western edge of the island, the par-72 course is being developed with coastal terrain and views of the Farol do Ponta do Pargo.

Sir Nick Faldo honored as Golf Course Designer of the Year 2025

Sir Nick Faldo has been named Golf Course Designer of the Year 2025 by the World Awards. The recognition aligns with the 25-year mark since the establishment of Faldo Design.

Speaking on the occasion, Faldo said the award held significance as it coincided with the firm’s quarter-century. He stated that the recognition reflected the collective effort behind the company’s work.

Sir Faldo credited his partners, architects, engineers, and project managers, noting their role in executing design plans across projects. 

Sir Faldo believes “Golf is as much a mental game as it is physical, and so we aim to create courses that encourage players to think and then decide on the best angle of approach.”

Written by

Aditi Singh

Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu