Golf holidays in Spain are popular for good reason. You’ll find top courses in beautiful settings, from coastal links to mountain layouts. The Canary Islands and southern Spain are ideal for winter golf, with warm temps even in January. Places like Andalusia, Murcia, and Catalonia offer lots of golf options.
Spain’s golf scene has something for everyone. You can play on famous courses like Valderrama or try newer designs. Many Spanish golf resorts have nice hotels and spas too. With great food, culture, and beaches nearby, golf trips to Spain can be fun on and off the course.
The Appeal of Spanish Golf
Spanish golf offers a perfect blend of sunlight, scenery, and sport. You’ll find over 300 days of sunshine yearly in regions like Murcia. This warm Mediterranean climate lets you play almost any time.
Spain’s golf courses are set in stunning landscapes. You’ll see mountains, coastlines, and lush greenery as you play. Many courses have been designed by famous golfers and architects. This adds to their quality and challenge.
The atmosphere at Spanish golf resorts is relaxed and welcoming. You can enjoy your game without feeling rushed. After your round, you can relax at the clubhouse or nearby beaches.
Spain hosts many exciting golf tournaments. You might catch a European Tour event or even the Spanish Open. These bring top players and create a buzz around the courses.
Golf in Spain isn’t just about the game. It’s part of a broader holiday. You can mix your rounds with sightseeing, beach time, and trying local food. This variety makes Spanish golf trips fun for players and non-players alike.
Some popular golf areas in Spain include:
- Costa del Sol
- Murcia
- Balearic Islands
- Costa Brava
Each region offers its own unique take on the Spanish golf adventure.
Top Golf Destinations in Spain
Spain offers many great places to play golf. The country has beautiful courses, sunny weather, and stunning scenery. You can find excellent golfing spots all across Spain.
Costa del Sol Excellence
Costa del Sol is a golfer’s paradise. This sunny stretch of coastline in southern Spain has over 70 golf courses. You’ll find options for every skill level.
Some standout courses include:
- Valderrama Golf Club: Hosts major tournaments
- Finca Cortesin: Ranked among Europe’s best
- La Reserva Club: Offers amazing views of the Mediterranean
The area enjoys 320+ days of sunshine per year. This lets you play golf almost any time. After your round, you can relax on beautiful beaches or explore charming towns like Marbella.
Valencia’s Vibrant Venues
Valencia’s golf scene is growing fast. The region blends great courses with rich culture and tasty food.
Top golf spots in Valencia include:
- El Saler: Links-style course next to a nature reserve
- La Galiana: Set in a beautiful valley with olive groves
- Font del Llop: Challenging desert-style layout
Valencia City is worth visiting too. You can see modern architecture at the City of Arts and Sciences. Don’t miss trying the local paella – it’s where the dish was born!
Catalonia’s Celebrated Courses
Catalonia, home to Barcelona, has some of Spain’s best golf. The region mixes seaside and mountain courses.
Must-play Catalonian courses:
- PGA Catalunya: Two top-rated courses near Girona
- Real Club de Golf El Prat: 45 holes designed by Greg Norman
- Club de Golf Terramar: Seaside course with views of the Mediterranean
Take time to explore Barcelona’s sights like Sagrada Familia. The Costa Brava’s beaches are perfect for post-golf relaxation.
Andalusia’s Attractive Amenities
Andalusia offers more than just Costa del Sol golf. The whole region is filled with great courses and cultural sites.
Standout Andalusian golf areas:
- Sotogrande: Home to Valderrama and other high-end courses
- Cadiz province: Includes Montecastillo and Novo Sancti Petri
- Costa de la Luz: Features Islantilla and El Rompido
Visit the Alhambra in Granada or Seville’s historic center between rounds. The region’s famous sherry wineries make for a nice tour too.
The Balearic and Canary Islands
Spain’s islands are perfect for golf getaways. You’ll find year-round good weather and scenic courses.
Top island golf spots:
Balearic Islands:
- Son Gual (Mallorca): Ranked among Spain’s best
- Golf Son Vida (Mallorca): Oldest course on the island
Canary Islands:
- Abama (Tenerife): Cliff-top course with ocean views
- Anfi Tauro (Gran Canaria): Designed by von Hagge
Island hopping lets you play varied courses and see different landscapes. Each island has its own charm and local culture to explore.
The Rising Stars of Murcia
Murcia is becoming a hot spot for golf in Spain. The region has over 300 sunny days yearly, making it great for golf trips.
Murcia’s top golf resorts:
- La Manga Club: Three 18-hole courses and lots of amenities
- Mar Menor Golf Resort: Nicklaus-designed course near the sea
- Hacienda del Álamo: Long course with wide fairways
The nearby Mar Menor lagoon offers unique beaches and water sports. Murcia City’s old town is worth a visit for its history and tapas bars.
Hidden Gems in Galicia
Galicia in northwest Spain has some hidden golf treasures. The green landscape and cooler climate make for pleasant summer golf.
Galicia’s best golf courses:
- La Toja: Island course with views of the Atlantic
- Real Aero Club de Vigo: Oldest course in Galicia
- Mondariz Golf: Set in a historic spa town
Try Galicia’s famous seafood and Albariño wine after your round. The region’s rugged coastline and ancient towns add to its appeal for a golf trip.
Iconic Spanish Golf Courses
Spain boasts some of the world’s finest golf courses. These legendary venues have hosted major tournaments and attracted players from across the globe.
Valderrama Golf Club Legacy
Valderrama Golf Club is a jewel of Spanish golf. It’s located in Sotogrande, Andalusia. The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1974. It’s known for its tight fairways and small greens.
Valderrama hosted the 1997 Ryder Cup. This was the first time the event was held in continental Europe. The course has also been home to many European Tour events.
Players face a tough challenge at Valderrama. The 17th hole is famous for its difficult green. Many pros have struggled here over the years.
Finca Cortesin’s Finest
Finca Cortesin is a newer course that’s quickly gained fame. It’s in Casares, near Marbella. The course opened in 2006 and was designed by Cabell Robinson.
The course is known for its length and wide fairways. It measures over 7,400 yards from the back tees. Finca Cortesin has hosted the Volvo World Match Play Championship three times.
One unique feature is the course’s grass. It uses a special Bermuda grass that stays green year-round. This helps keep the course in great shape for players.
PGA Catalunya’s Rich History
PGA Catalunya is near Girona in northeast Spain. It has two courses: the Stadium Course and the Tour Course. The Stadium Course is the more famous of the two.
The Stadium Course opened in 1999. It was designed by Angel Gallardo and Neil Coles. It’s hosted the Spanish Open multiple times.
The course is known for its beautiful setting. It sits among pine forests and lakes. Players face many elevation changes throughout their round.
La Reserva Golf Club: A New Era
La Reserva is part of the Sotogrande resort area. It opened in 2003 and was designed by Cabell Robinson. The course offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
La Reserva is known for its wide fairways and large greens. This makes it more forgiving than some other top Spanish courses. It’s still a challenge for skilled players.
The course has hosted several pro events. These include the European Tour’s NH Collection Open in 2014.
Aloha Golf Club’s Unique Charm
Aloha Golf Club is in Marbella on the Costa del Sol. It was designed by Javier Arana and opened in 1975. The course is known for its lush, tropical feel.
Aloha has hosted the Open de Andalucia multiple times. It’s a favorite among European Tour pros. The course is challenging but fair for all skill levels.
One standout feature is the par-5 18th hole. It has a green guarded by water on three sides. This makes for an exciting finish to any round.
Planning Your Golf Trip to Spain
Spain offers amazing golf opportunities year-round. Your trip can include top courses, fun events, comfy stays, and tasty food.
Selecting the Ideal Time of Year
Spain’s golf season runs from mid-February to early July and September to late November. These months have nice weather for playing. The summer months of July and August can be very hot, so many golfers avoid them. Winter brings cooler temps but still allows for play in many areas. The Canary Islands stay warm all year with average temps over 20°C. Southern spots like Andalusia get lots of sun, about 3,000 hours yearly. Places near the Mediterranean, such as Catalonia, Valencia, and Murcia, have mild winters too.
Golf-Related Events and Tournaments
Spain hosts many golf events throughout the year. The Spanish Open, part of the European Tour, is a big draw. It takes place in different spots each year. Local clubs often hold their own contests that welcome visitors. Some resorts put on smaller tourneys for guests. These can be fun ways to meet other players and test your skills. Check event dates when planning your trip. You might catch a pro match or join an amateur game.
Accommodation and Resort Options
Spain has many places to stay near golf courses. You can pick from fancy resorts with their own links or smaller hotels close to public courses. Some top spots include:
- Marbella: Known for luxury golf resorts
- Costa del Sol: Has many courses and hotels
- La Manga Club: A big resort with three 18-hole courses
- PGA Catalunya: A high-end golf resort near Barcelona
Many resorts offer golf packages that include your room and tee times. This can save money and make planning easier. Some places also have spas, pools, and other fun stuff to do when you’re not golfing.
Culture and Gastronomy Beyond the Greens
After golf, Spain has lots more to offer. You can visit old towns, see famous art, or relax on beaches. Each area has its own foods to try:
- Andalusia: Try gazpacho and fresh seafood
- Catalonia: Sample paella and local wines
- Basque Country: Enjoy pintxos (tasty snacks) in San Sebastian
Many golf areas are near cool cities like Barcelona, Madrid, or Seville. You can mix city trips with your golf days. Don’t miss out on trying tapas, Spain’s famous small plates. They’re perfect for a light meal after a round of golf.
Golf Breaks Spain can help you plan a trip that fits your needs.
The Spanish Golf Experience
Spain offers excellent golf opportunities. You can play on world-class courses all year round. The country’s warm climate and beautiful scenery make it perfect for golfing.
Spanish golf courses come in many styles. Some are set along the coast with sea views. Others wind through mountains or olive groves. Many courses were designed by famous golfers and architects.
Golf in Spain isn’t just about the game. It’s also about enjoying the local culture. After your round, you can relax at a resort spa or try delicious Spanish food. Many golf clubs have fancy restaurants right on site.
Spain hosts big golf tournaments too. You might see pro players in action if you time your trip right. Some courses have hosted the Ryder Cup and Spanish Open.
Golf resorts in Spain offer more than just golf. You’ll find swimming pools, tennis courts, and other activities. Many are near beaches or historic towns you can explore.
Spanish golf clubs welcome players of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find a course that suits you. Some clubs offer lessons if you want to improve your game.
Remember to book tee times in advance, especially during busy seasons. Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated – Spanish sun can be strong!
Golf Amenities and Facilities
Spain’s golf resorts offer great amenities and facilities. You’ll find luxurious spas, fancy restaurants, and exclusive services at many locations. These places cater to golfers and non-golfers alike.
Many resorts have multiple golf courses. For example, Villa Padierna has three courses: Flamingos, Alferini, and Tramores. Each course has its own unique features and challenges.
Here’s a quick look at some common amenities:
- Spa treatments
- Fine dining options
- Swimming pools
- Tennis courts
- Fitness centers
Golf courses often have practice areas too. You might see:
- Driving ranges
- Putting greens
- Chipping areas
Some resorts go above and beyond with their offerings. You could find things like:
- Golf academies
- Pro shops
- Club fitting services
The quality of these facilities can vary. Prestigious resorts like Westin La Quinta boast world-class amenities. They aim to give you a fancy stay both on and off the course.
Remember, amenities can change. It’s smart to check with the resort before you book. This way, you know exactly what to expect during your golf trip to Spain.
Conclusion
Spain is a great place to play golf. You can enjoy the sport year-round thanks to the warm climate. The country has many excellent courses to choose from.
The Costa del Sol in southern Spain is a top spot for golfers. It has over 70 courses and beautiful beaches. You’ll find good golfing weather there most of the year.
Other good areas for golf in Spain include:
- Catalonia
- Valencia
- Murcia
- Canary Islands
These regions offer mild temperatures and lots of sunshine. Many courses have stunning views of the Mediterranean or mountains.
Spain’s golf history goes back to 1891. The sport has grown a lot since then. Now you can find over 200 courses in the Andalucía region alone.
When planning your Spanish golf trip, consider going in spring or fall. Summer can be very hot, especially in July and August. The main golf season runs from February to early July and September to November.
With so many courses and great weather, Spain is an ideal place to work on your swing. You can play at world-class courses while enjoying Spanish culture, food, and beaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Spain offers many great golf options. Here are answers to common questions about golfing in Spain.
What are the top-rated golf courses in Spain?
Spain has several excellent golf courses. Real Club Valderrama in Andalusia is often ranked as Spain’s best. PGA Catalunya near Barcelona and Finca Cortesin on the Costa del Sol are also highly rated. These courses have hosted major tournaments and offer amazing views.
How much are the typical green fees for golfing in Spain?
Green fees in Spain vary widely. Public courses may charge 40-80 euros. High-end resort courses can cost 200-300 euros or more. Prices are usually higher in peak season (spring and fall). Some courses offer twilight rates or package deals for better value.
Which are the most recommended public golf courses in Spain?
Spain has good public courses open to all. Golf Santander near Madrid is popular. Costa Ballena in Cadiz and Bonmont in Tarragona get good reviews. La Manga in Murcia has three 18-hole courses you can play. These offer quality golf at more affordable prices.
Where in Spain can you find the best golf living communities?
The Costa del Sol has many golf communities. Sotogrande is famous for its courses and luxury homes. La Cala Resort near Marbella has three courses and nice homes. PGA Catalunya near Girona combines great golf with high-end living. These areas let you live right next to top courses.
Can you list some affordable golf courses in Spain with great reviews?
You can find good-value golf in Spain. Parador de Malaga Golf is well-liked and reasonably priced. Font del Llop in Alicante offers nice golf for less. La Monacilla in Huelva gets good reviews at lower rates. These courses give you quality play without breaking the bank.
What cities in Spain are known for having premier golf courses?
Several Spanish cities are known for great golf. Marbella on the Costa del Sol has many top courses nearby. Barcelona offers PGA Catalunya and other high-end options. Madrid has quality courses like Golf Santander. These cities combine urban amenities with world-class golf.
