A transformative revitalization project, valued at $92 million, is currently underway at Saddlebrook Resort, the renowned 480-acre destination located near Tampa, Florida.
This extensive redevelopment aims to restore the property’s legacy as a premier destination for leisure travelers, golf and tennis enthusiasts, and group events.
Acquired in 2022 by Mast Capital, in collaboration with Amzak Capital Management, the initiative encompasses a comprehensive overhaul of the resort and its golf facilities.
Mast Capital is a Miami-based real estate investment, development, and management firm specializing in luxury condominiums and mixed-use projects in South Florida.
The firm’s noteworthy projects—Cipriani Residences in Brickell and The Perigon in Miami Beach—exemplify its expertise in executing substantial developments with international appeal, positioning it as a key player in the region’s real estate market.
What changes can we expect at Saddlebrook Resort?
Rees Jones is leading an inspiring redesign of Saddlebrook’s historic golf grounds. The vision is to elevate the two existing 18-hole layouts—designed initially by the legendary Arnold Palmer—into an extraordinary 27-hole championship experience.
These 3 newly conceived nine-hole courses can be rotated in different combinations to create 3 unique 18-hole challenges, each delivering an exceptional playing experience.
The renovation, which began in late 2024, honors the past by incorporating six holes from the former Palmer Course while enhancing accessibility by relocating the driving range closer to the main resort lobby.
The state-of-the-art practice facilities now encompass 13 acres and feature
- a double-sided driving range exceeding 360 yards,
- 2 TifEagle™ bermudagrass putting greens, and
- 3 meticulously designed short-game areas complete with precision greenside bunkers.
All green complexes are currently undergoing reconstruction in accordance with USGA specifications. This involves reshaping, repositioning, and replenishing bunkers with new sand.
Additionally, tee boxes are being constructed, renovated, and laser leveled to ensure precision.
An advanced irrigation and drainage system is being installed to enhance turf conditions and promote long-term sustainability.
Upon completion, the 3 nine-hole layouts will converge near the resort’s redesigned 500,000-gallon Super Pool, thereby creating a cohesive and convenient golfing experience.
The configurations will rotate daily, with course distances ranging from 6,600 to 7,005 yards and playing to pars of either 71 or 72.
One course is scheduled to debut in late 2025, with another following in early 2026.
The third course is currently available for limited play and is slated for full renovation in the spring and summer of 2026.
Beyond golf transformation…
The golf transformation is part of a broader masterplan reimagining the entire resort.
Led by acclaimed architecture and design firm EoA Group, renovations span the full guest experience—from refreshed arrival and lobby areas to redesigned guestrooms, vibrant new dining concepts, and fully upgraded event spaces.
Outdoor areas, multiple pools, and Saddlebrook Resort’s more than 40,000 square feet of meeting space are all being modernized to meet today’s standards of luxury and functionality.
Beyond golf, Saddlebrook Resort embodies a legacy of excellence as a premier sports training facility with
- 43 tennis courts,
- 8 pickleball courts,
- a cutting-edge fitness center,
- a tranquil spa, and
- an upcoming multi-court padel complex inspires athletes to reach their fullest potential.
Troon Golf, the resort and daily fee division of Troon, oversees golf operations and membership sales and marketing at Saddlebrook Resort.