Saddlebrook Resort Launches $92 Million Revitalization Project

Categories: Golf Resorts & TripsResorts & Trips

The revitalized Saddlebrook Resort, featuring enhanced golf facilities and leisure areas.

News Summary

Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel, Florida, is set to embark on a $92 million project to revitalize its facilities and golf operations. The plan includes redesigning two championship golf courses into three 9-hole courses, enhancing practice areas, and upgrading guest accommodations. With a history of sports training and leisure activities, the resort aims to become a top destination for travelers and athletes alike. Other improvements include a town center with housing and retail spaces, further promoting community development around the resort.

Wesley Chapel, Florida – Saddlebrook Resort is embarking on a significant $92 million revitalization project aimed at transforming its golf and leisure operations. This redevelopment endeavors to reestablish the 480-acre resort, situated near Tampa, as a premier destination for leisure travelers, golf and tennis enthusiasts, and group events.

The property was acquired in 2022 by Mast Capital in partnership with Amzak Capital Management, marking the beginning of its ambitious transformation. With a history spanning over 40 years, Saddlebrook has long been a notable leisure spot and training facility.

The revitalization efforts encompass a comprehensive renovation of the resort facilities and the golf course itself. Prominent golf course architect Rees Jones is overseeing the redesign, which will overhaul the existing two 18-hole golf courses originally designed by Arnold Palmer into three 9-hole championship courses. This innovative design allows for a versatile 27-hole layout, offering varying experiences for golfers.

Golf Course Enhancements

Renovations commenced in late 2024, incorporating six holes from the former Palmer Course. Significant changes include relocating the driving range closer to the main lobby to improve accessibility, creating a 360-yard range with expanded practice facilities. The new complex spans 13 acres and features:

A double-sided driving range
Two TifEagle™ bermudagrass putting greens
Three short-game areas equipped with precision-designed greenside bunkers

All transformations are being executed following USGA specifications, with enhancements to green complexes and the reshaping of bunkers. An advanced irrigation and drainage system is also being installed to promote sustainable turf conditions, with course distances planned to range from 6,600 to 7,005 yards, featuring pars of 71 or 72.

The first of the new nine-hole courses is set to debut in late 2025, another is expected in early 2026, and the final course will open for limited play with a full renovation planned for spring/summer 2026.

Broader Master Plan

The revitalization project extends beyond the golf course. EoA Group is spearheading a broader master plan that includes:

Upgraded guest rooms and residential-style suites
New dining concepts
Modernized event spaces
Enhanced outdoor areas and multiple pools
Over 40,000 square feet of meeting space

The resort also maintains its status as a world-class sports training facility, featuring:

43 tennis courts
Eight pickleball courts
A state-of-the-art fitness center
A spa
A planned multi-court padel complex

Historic Sports Training Legacy

Saddlebrook is renowned for its sports training programs, particularly the Saddlebrook Golf Academy and the esteemed Hopman Tennis Program. Notable tennis athletes such as Pete Sampras, Jim Courier, and ATP World No. 3 Alexander Zverev have trained at Saddlebrook, contributing to its reputation as a destination for elite athletic training.

Golf operations and membership sales are managed by Troon Golf, ensuring that guests and members receive top-tier services during their visit. Located only 30 minutes from Tampa International Airport, the resort offers convenient access for both domestic and international travelers.

Community Development Initiatives

In addition to the enhancements in recreational offerings, a new town center is also planned within the property. This development will include 465 rental apartments, 25 townhomes, and 75,000 square feet of retail and office space, aiming to create a vibrant community atmosphere around the resort.

Through this multifaceted $92 million revitalization project, Saddlebrook Resort is poised to emerge as a leading destination in the region, integrating luxury leisure experiences with renowned sporting facilities.