Club de Golf Alcanada

Overview

Club de Golf Alcanada (often shortened to Alcanada) sits on the sheltered northern shore of Mallorca, with golf holes that look out across Alcúdia Bay toward the small island and 19th‑century lighthouse that give the club its name. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and opened in 2003, Alcanada is a par‑72 championship layout that blends coastal, pine‑and‑olive‑groved parkland with true seaside holes — a rare combination in Spain and a must‑play for visitors to Mallorca.

Why play Alcanada

- Unmistakable setting: many holes frame the bay and the island lighthouse, producing some of the most photographed views on Mallorca. The course alternates between quieter inland holes among pines and olives and exposed seaside holes that reward boldness off the tee.

- A test for all levels: wide selection of tee positions on every hole means Alcanada can challenge touring professionals and still be playable for higher handicaps. The routing’s elevation changes — dramatic downhill drives and testing uphill approaches — demand smart club selection and shot management.

- Tournament pedigree: Alcanada has hosted the season finale on the Road to Mallorca / Challenge Tour (Rolex Grand Final) on multiple occasions and is recognised as a championship venue. That tournament history reflects course conditioning and standards expected by professional events.

The course (what to expect)

- Layout and length: The par‑72 layout measures in the region of 6,500–6,600 metres from the championship tees and contains a dense array of strategically placed bunkers (Top100 records 58). Thoughtful green complexes and the bunkering force accurate approaches.

- Signature holes: Players commonly single out the seaside stretch (notably the par‑5 7th), the elevated par‑5 13th with its postcard view to the lighthouse, and the closing sequence that includes a powerful long par‑4 and a testing long par‑3. Several holes reward distance but demand position — fairways are loomed by pine, oak and olive, and bunkers are used cleverly to shape strategy.

- Putting surfaces & renovation: The greens were relaid and reshaped as part of course improvements in winter 2018; contours were softened in places to improve playability while retaining a fast, true roll that rewards good reads.

- Turf and sustainability: To cope with coastal conditions, paspalum varieties were chosen in several areas because of their salt tolerance— a deliberate, environmentally aware choice in the original build and later maintenance work.

Facilities and services

- Practice area: full driving range, short‑game area and practice putting green so you can warm up properly before your round with Toptracer technology.

- On‑course conveniences: GPS‑enabled buggies are available, there are practice bunkers, a halfway house and beverage cart service in season. The pro shop stocks rental clubs and typical accessories.

- Clubhouse & dining: the modernised clubhouse sits atop the site’s old farmhouse and offers a spacious terrace with bay views — a good place to relax after 18. While Alcanada does not operate an on‑site hotel, it works closely with nearby accommodation options in Alcúdia and Port d’Alcúdia.

Practical travel tips for planning your trip

- Getting there: Alcanada lies by Port d’Alcúdia on Mallorca’s northern coast. Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) is the island’s international hub and is roughly 45–60 minutes’ drive to Alcúdia depending on traffic and route (around 60–61 km). Allow extra time in peak summer traffic. Pre‑booked transfers, rental cars or taxis are all common choices.

- When to play: Mallorca’s best months for golf are the shoulder seasons — spring (March–May) and autumn (September–October) — when temperatures are mild, courses are in top condition and crowds are lower than in peak summer. Alcanada is open year‑round, but tee times and course availability can be busier in May and early summer, so book ahead.

- Booking & handicap policy: book tee times in advance, especially for morning slots in peak months. The club publishes minimum playing handicap limits (for example, the official guidance lists minimum handicaps for entry), and rental clubs are available if you prefer to travel light. Check the club’s booking terms before travelling.

- What to bring: sun protection, a light waterproof for occasional coastal gusts or showers, and comfortable walking shoes if you don’t take a cart. If you have a preferred set of clubs, bring them — the pro shop has good rental options, but many regular visitors prefer their own gear.

Playing advice

- Be strategic from the tee: with wide fairways but cleverly placed bunkers and trees, positional tee shots often beat pure distance. Play to the angles the bunkering creates rather than simply aiming for the centre of the fairway.

- Wind matters: coastal holes can be exposed; check prevailing conditions on the day and take the breeze into account on club selection for long approach shots.

- Read the greens: 2018 work smoothed some contours, but subtle breaks remain — allow time to study putts, especially on greens that slope toward the sea.

Who will enjoy Alcanada

- Golf travellers who want seaside views without sacrificing strategic interest.

- Players who appreciate a modern championship test that still feels rooted in the Mallorcan landscape.

- Anyone building a Mallorca itinerary: Alcanada pairs well with rounds at inland and mountain courses for a varied island golf trip.

Final note

Alcanada combines strong architectural intent, outstanding sea views and tournament‑level conditioning. For visitors planning a Mallorca golf trip, it’s one of the island’s signature rounds — photogenic, testy and very much worth reserving a morning to play. Book early for peak months, plan travel time from Palma, and allow time after your round to enjoy the terrace and the view toward the Alcanada lighthouse.