50 Years of Excellence or A Legacy Forged: From Sugar Plantation to World-Class Resort

History

Casa de Campo has been setting the standard for Caribbean luxury since the ‘70s – and we’ve made some unforgettable memories along the way. Explore the key moments, milestones, and celebrations events that have shaped our legacy – where timeless luxury, legendary guests, and world-class experiences come together in one extraordinary timeline.

50th Anniversary Collection

Discover our exclusive 50th Anniversary Collection, available in our Golf Pro Shops and La Boutique. From limited-edition wines, rums, and glasses to apparel, golf accessories, cigars, and souvenirs, these items are designed to bring the spirit of Casa de Campo home.

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Win a Limited Edition Tommy Bahama Golf Cart

To mark our 50th anniversary, we’ve partnered with Club Car to raffle off a limited edition Tommy Bahama golf cart. It’s your chance to win big while supporting a meaningful cause. This special raffle supports the life-changing work of Fundación MIR and Patronato Benéfico Oriental, two incredible organizations based right here in La Romana, Dominican Republic. By participating you can help them continue making a real difference in our community.

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1960 The Birth of a Visionary Idea

In the 1960s, a pivotal moment in Casa de Campo’s history unfolded as Alvaro Carta arrived in La Romana, Dominican Republic, to oversee the sugar mill. In fact, the conception of Casa de Campo grew from the glamour of Hollywood as the property was first a 7,000-acre sugar plantation owned by Gulf + Western, which also had Paramount Pictures listed among its assets.
Inspired by the region’s natural beauty, Carta and Gulf + Western’s chairman and CEO, Charles Bluhdorn, envisioned a new chapter in the island’s development. He became a driving force behind the birth of the tourism industry in the area, laying the foundation for Casa de Campo Resort & Villas.
Legendary golf course designer Pete Dye was brought on board to create what would become the iconic Teeth of the Dog. Dye’s master craftsmanship and vision shaped the course into a challenging and breathtaking masterpiece.
1971 The Birth of a Golfing Legend

Throughout 1970, more than 300 Dominican workers hand-carved a stunning golf course from the rugged coral landscape to bring Pete Dye’s vision to life. Upon hearing the workers refer to the sharp coral rock as “diente de perro” (meaning “teeth of the dog” in Spanish), the name Teeth of the Dog® was born.
In 1971, the Teeth of the Dog® golf course opened its doors, quickly gaining recognition as the premier golf course in the Caribbean. With its dramatic cliffside setting and challenging layout, the course attracted golfers from all over the world, solidifying Casa de Campo’s reputation as a golfing paradise.
1974 A Private Executive Oasis

Casa de Campo’s journey continued in 1974 when it began as an exclusive executive retreat for Gulf + Western, a prominent corporation. Catering to high-profile guests, the resort offered a tranquil sanctuary for business leaders and dignitaries to relax and network.
In 1974, Indian Prince Maharajah Jabar Singh, renowned for his expertise in polo, received a prestigious invitation to introduce the sport at the newly constructed Casa de Campo Resort in the Dominican Republic. His presence marked a significant moment for Casa de Campo, elevating its status as a world-class destination for both sport and leisure.
1976 The Rise of Tennis at Casa de Campo

In 1976, La Terraza Tennis Club was constructed, marking the emergence of tennis as a prominent sport at Casa de Campo. With its state-of-the-art facilities and picturesque setting, the club became a haven for tennis enthusiasts, hosting tournaments and attracting world-renowned players.
1980 Golf’s Golden Era and a New Vision

The 1980s ushered in a golden era for golf at Casa de Campo. Gilles Gagnon, a visionary golf operations director, joined the team and played a pivotal role in the growth of golf in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean. His dedication and expertise contributed significantly to the resort’s reputation as a world-class golfing destination.
1982 1982

On August 20, 1982, the amphitheater hosted HBO’s “Concert for the Americas” special, headlined by Frank Sinatra. Two days later, the amphitheater welcomed Carlos Santana and the band Heart, and three years later, Wilfrido Vargas became the first Dominican artist to perform at the Amphitheater to a sold-out concert on April 26, 1985. In the years that followed, the amphitheater hosted star-studded performances from the likes of Elton John, Gloria Estefan, Sting, Andrea Bocelli, Michael Buble, Jennifer Lopez, and many more.
1983 1983

The Altos de Chavon School of Design opened in 1983 in affiliation with New York’s famed Parsons School of Design.
1984 A Shift in Ownership and a New Chapter

A significant turning point came in 1984 when the Fanjul brothers and their partners acquired Gulf and Western Industries’ sugar businesses, including Casa de Campo. This acquisition reshaped the corporate landscape and paved the way for the rebirth of the Central Romana Corporation, under which Casa de Campo would continue to flourish.
This year also brought the addition of Casita hotel rooms, complementing its array of private villa homes and providing guests with a versatile choice in accommodations. Nestled within the sprawling resort grounds, the Casitas were designed to blend luxury with comfort, offering a more intimate stay for visitors seeking a different experience from the expansive villas.
Dominican designer Oscar de La Renta lent his talents to create a unique and inviting ambiance for Casa de Campo.
1986 Expanding Offerings

In the 1980’s further facilities were added to the Resort, including expansion of the Equestrian Center, additional polo fields and the creation of the Shooting Center with over 200 stations for Trap, Skeet and Sporting Clays and the iconic shooting tower.
In Altos de Chavon, a variety of restaurants were developed including El Sombrero Mexican, Cafe del Sol Pizzeria, the fabulous Casa del Rio overlooking the Chavon River, and La Piazzetta Italian, which is still open to this day.
1990 Late 1990s

Casa de Campo transformed into an international port of call when Costa Cruise Lines’ Classica arrived, marking a significant milestone in its history.
El Cacique Conference Center was built to enhance the offering for Groups and events.
The La Romana/Casa de Campo Airport was expanded into an international facility with multiple runways and non-stop daily jet service from the US.
2000 2000

The Casa de Campo Healing Spa opens its doors with a Zen garden that included a meditation labyrinth, 8 treatment rooms and a hot & cold plunge Water Sanctuary Suite.
2001 2001

Located at Latitude 18 degrees 23.9 North and Longitude 68 degrees, 54.2 West, is the Casa de Campo Marina, inspired by the old seaside villages of the Mediterranean, yet equipped with all the modern amenities to serve international yachtsmen.
The Casa de Campo Marina extends over more than 90,000 square meters, and it is the most modern marina in the Caribbean, with 350 slips and the IBC Shipyard with a lift that can carry up to 250 tons for repairs. It also offers an array of entertainment and fine dining, including La Casita, SBG, and Causa restaurants, high fashion boutiques, a movie theater, and the Marina Coconut shopping mall.
2004 2004

Dye Fore, the 3rd Pete Dye golf course, opens. A visually stunning course with seven cliff-side holes that drop a staggering 300 feet to the Chavón River below — challenging players with up to 40 mph gusting winds. Par three holes, #12 and #15, are two of the greatest in the world and the entire course offers 360-degree views of the Caribbean Sea, Dominican mountains, Chavón River, Casa de Campo Marina and Altos de Chavón.
2009 2009

The resort embarked on an extensive $40 million renovation project. This comprehensive transformation saw the enhancement of the main lobby and hotel, the creation of an upgraded pool area, and the addition of ultra-luxurious accommodations, the renovation of the beach restaurant, among other notable improvements including the Fitness Center and a $12 million Banquet and Restaurant kitchen.
2017 2017

Minitas Beach Club underwent a remarkable transformation, emerging as a fully modernized restaurant. The addition of a pool deck, ocean-view bar and lounge, and a distinctive dining environment has elevated the establishment to new heights of sophistication.
2019 2019

The resort completely remodeled the 64 rooms previously named Pete Dye Golf Lodge, placing them at the forefront of luxury and comfort. In addition, a family area was built in Minitas, which includes two swimming pools, food trucks and the Coco Mar bar.
2023 2023

The Premier Club is built adding 26 premier junior suites, 27 premier junior suites with king beds, 27 premier junior suites with double beds, a premier presidential suite and a dedicated reception area with exclusive bar and lounge areas.
The Spa at Casa de Campo opens its doors in the Summer of 2023, offering a wide range of prestige spa services, wellness experiences, and cutting-edge technology.
2025 A Thriving Community and World-Class Destination

Today, Casa de Campo Resort & Villas stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders and leaders. It has evolved into a thriving community where thousands of part-time and full-time residents have found their haven. With its stunning collection of close to 2,400 villas, world-class golf courses, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional hospitality, Casa de Campo has become a benchmark for excellence in the hospitality industry.

America’s Best Sinatra Tribute Weekend

To celebrate Casa de Campo’s 50th anniversary, Michael Martocci lit up the stage with a high-energy tribute to Frank Sinatra – joined by a 22-piece Dominican orchestra. The night kicked off with the smooth sounds of Dominican Bossa, setting the vibe for a stylish evening of iconic hits like “Fly Me to the Moon” and “My Way.”

50th Anniversary
Kick-Off Weekend

Casa de Campo’s 50th anniversary weekend (October 24-26, 2024) was packed with unforgettable moments. Highlights included a spectacular golf event, the vibrant Golden Hour Party with Shalim Ortiz, and two days of live music from legends like Robin Wilson, Robin Zander, Richard Marx, Jon Secada, Taylor Dayne, and more.