Bilbao represents everything most golfers don't expect from Spanish golf. Forget the resort courses and palm trees of the Costa del Sol - this is where Spanish golfing legends like Jon Rahm, Seve Ballesteros, and José María Olazábal learned their craft. The Basque region produces world-class players for good reason: dramatic coastal courses, challenging parkland layouts, and a golfing culture that prizes skill over spectacle.
What makes Bilbao special for travelling golfers:
The region combines serious golf with one of Europe's finest culinary scenes, all within an hour's drive of each course. This isn't tourist golf - it's where locals play, creating an authentically Spanish golfing experience.
The Basque region's premier courses offer variety that challenges every aspect of your game, from coastal conditions to inland precision.
Neguri Golf Club - The crown jewel of Bilbao golf features two completely different nines that feel like separate courses. The front nine plays links-style along the coast with wind and firm conditions, while the back nine transforms into parkland golf through mature trees. This unique design tests every club in your bag. Green fees approximately £210 (€250/$275) Monday through Thursday, with weekend play restricted to members and guests.
Lerma Golf Club - Jon Rahm's home course in nearby Vitoria showcases pure parkland golf at its finest. The layout demands precision over power, with strategic bunkering and mature trees framing every fairway. Local knowledge suggests the course plays longer than the scorecard indicates due to elevation changes. Green fees approximately £75 (€90/$100).
Real Golf de Zarauz - The oldest golf course in Spain still played on its original property, this historic nine-hole layout near San Sebastián offers pure golfing heritage. The course maintains its early 1900s character, and locals recommend playing with persimmon woods to fully appreciate the authentic experience. The links-style layout provides excellent preparation for Scottish golf. Green fees approximately £65 (€75/$85).
Basozabal Golf - Designed by José María Olazábal near San Sebastián, this 25-year-old course represents modern Spanish course architecture. The layout flows naturally through rolling countryside with strategic water features and elevated tees offering mountain views. Each hole presents clear strategic choices that reward course management over raw distance. Green fees approximately £85 (€100/$110).
Real Golf de la Heredad de Reinas - Located just outside the Basque region near Logroño, this Severiano Ballesteros design sits an hour from Bilbao and merits inclusion in any serious golf itinerary. The course challenges players with strategic design that emphasises shot-making over distance. Weekend play requires member invitation, with green fees approximately £170 (€200/$220).
Beyond the championship venues, several courses offer excellent golf at remarkable value while showcasing local character.
Matxitxako Golf - This Seve Ballesteros design currently hosts the PGA of Spain's Basque Open, attracting local tour professionals. The course offers solid championship golf with dramatic coastal views and challenging wind conditions. Currently undergoing major renovations that will transform it into a premier destination, but in its present form provides excellent golf at approximately £65 (€75/$85).
Artxanda Golf - Perched above Bilbao city, this shorter course offers spectacular views and tests short game skills. The elevated position means wind is always a factor, and the compact layout rewards precision over power. Popular with locals for quick rounds and evening golf, with green fees approximately £45 (€50/$60).
Meaztegi Golf - An inland course that showcases parkland golf with water hazards and mature trees. The layout provides good variety without excessive length, making it ideal for higher handicap golfers or those seeking a relaxed round. Green fees approximately £55 (€65/$70).
Uraburu Golf - This newer addition to the Basque golf scene offers modern amenities with traditional golfing values. The course design emphasises strategy over length, with multiple tee options accommodating all skill levels. Green fees approximately £60 (€70/$80).
Day 1 - Arrival & Neguri Arrive in Bilbao, collect rental car, and settle into city centre accommodation. Afternoon round at Neguri Golf Club (noon tee time recommended to avoid morning fog). Evening exploration of Casco Viejo (Seven Streets) old town with traditional pintxos dinner.
Day 2 - Zarauz & San Sebastián Early departure for Zarauz to play Spain's oldest course, still played on its original property. Afternoon drive to San Sebastián for city exploration and dinner at a local asador. Overnight in San Sebastián or return to Bilbao base.
Day 3 - Basozabal & Cultural Day Morning round at Olazábal's Basozabal course. Afternoon visit to Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, followed by an evening in Getxo beach area where Jon Rahm grew up. Try the local Kalimotxo cocktail at a beachside bar.
Day 4 - Lerma Excursion Full day trip to Vitoria for Jon Rahm's home course at Lerma. The inland drive showcases different Basque countryside, and the parkland course provides contrast to coastal golf. Return to Bilbao for farewell dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Day 5 - Departure Buffer Flexible day for additional golf at Matxitxako or Artxanda if flights allow, or full cultural day visiting San Mamés Cathedral (Athletic Bilbao's stadium) and final shopping in Bilbao centre.
Transportation
Bilbao Airport connects directly to major European cities with budget and traditional carriers. The airport sits conveniently for accessing all golf courses and city attractions. Rental cars are essential for golf-focused trips, with major companies represented at the airport. Public transport from airport to city centre takes 20 minutes by bus, but taxis cost approximately £25 (€30/$35).
Weather & Packing
The Basque climate resembles southern England but is slightly warmer - expect changeable conditions year-round. Morning fog commonly delays early tee times until 10 am, so noon start times prove optimal. Pack layers including waterproofs, as conditions can shift rapidly from sunshine to drizzle.
October, November, and May offer ideal playing conditions with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures.
Equipment Considerations
All courses provide trolley hire, and walking remains the preferred method. Buggies are available but may require medical necessity proof at some venues.
Limited caddie services exist - book well in advance if required.
Most golfers hire clubs locally rather than travelling with equipment, with quality sets available at approximately £35 (€40/$45) per round.
Local Golf Customs
Dress codes are refreshingly relaxed - only Neguri's upper dining room requires long trousers, but their casual bar welcomes golf attire. The culture emphasises walking golf and social rounds rather than rushed play. Pace expectations are leisurely by British standards but efficient compared to some American clubs.
City Centre Hotels
Bilbao's compact centre offers numerous boutique hotels within walking distance of cultural attractions. The Casco Viejo area provides an authentic local atmosphere with easy access to traditional bars and restaurants.
Golf Resort Options
Unlike southern Spain, the Basque region lacks dedicated golf resorts. This creates a more authentic experience staying among locals rather than tourist enclaves. Several hotels near courses offer golf packages, but city centre bases provide better cultural immersion.
Strategic Location Planning
Any Bilbao location works for golf access - no area creates significant travel challenges to courses. The city centre provides optimal access to dining, culture, and nightlife, while coastal Getxo offers beach proximity and slightly shorter drives to Neguri and Zarauz.
Alternative Accommodation
San Sebastián makes an excellent base for playing eastern courses like Zarauz and Basozabal while offering world-renowned dining scenes. Many golfers split their stay between Bilbao and San Sebastián to fully experience both cities.
Premium Dining Experiences
The Basque region boasts several three-Michelin-starred restaurants offering world-class dining at approximately £170 (€200/$220) per person - remarkable value for this calibre. Reservations require planning, but the experience rivals any global dining destination.
Local Specialities & Asador Culture
Asador Etxebarri (20 minutes from Bilbao) consistently ranks among the world's best restaurants for txuleta (T-bone steak).
Reservations require six months advance booking, but Sunday pintxos service (11am-1pm) offers the same exceptional cooking in small plates for £4-9 (€5-10/$6-12) each, providing three-star dining without the formality.
Traditional Pintxos Culture
Bilbao's Casco Viejo offers authentic pintxos bars where locals gather after work. Unlike tourist tapas, pintxos represent serious regional cuisine in small portions. Budget £15-25 (€20-30/$25-35) per person for a proper pintxos crawl with drinks.
Signature Drinks
Kalimotxo remains the local festive drink - equal parts red wine and Coca-Cola served cold with ice. While initially off-putting to visitors, many discover they enjoy this refreshing combination. Traditional gin tonics and "Dish" (regional screwdriver with fresh local orange juice) provide familiar alternatives.
Advance Planning Requirements
Championship courses like Neguri and Reinas require member invitations for weekend play, but welcome paying guests Monday through Friday. Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead during peak season (May-October). Most other courses accept bookings 1-2 weeks in advance.
Optimal Timing Strategy
Request tee times around noon to avoid morning fog delays. Even with 8 am bookings, fog often delays play until 10 am anyway. The local recommendation of noon maximises playing time and eliminates weather frustrations.
Pricing Transparency
Most courses maintain transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Green fees include trolley hire at most venues. Buggy rentals add approximately £25-35 (€30-40/$35-45) where available.
Seasonal Booking Patterns
October-November and May offer optimal conditions with easier booking. January remains the only truly quiet month, though even winter days often provide pleasant playing conditions. August-September represents peak season, requiring the earliest booking.
Cultural Must-Sees The Guggenheim Museum showcases world-class contemporary art in Frank Gehry's architectural masterpiece. The Casco Viejo (Seven Streets) represents Bilbao's medieval heart with traditional architecture and authentic local life.
Football Heritage San Mamés Stadium (nicknamed "The Cathedral") offers tours showcasing Athletic Bilbao's unique Basque-only player policy. This cultural institution represents regional identity as much as sporting achievement.
Game of Thrones Filming Locations San Juan de Gaztelugatxe provides dramatic coastal scenery where Daenerys landed at Dragonstone. The hermitage on this rocky island connects to mainland via scenic footpath, offering spectacular photo opportunities.
Beach & Coastal Areas Getxo Beach provides relaxed coastal atmosphere and represents Jon Rahm's hometown. The area offers excellent seafood restaurants and beach walks between golf rounds.
Fog Management
Never book tee times before 10 am - morning fog causes regular delays regardless of the forecast. Local golfers automatically request noon starts to avoid waiting around clubhouses.
Cultural Integration
Learn basic Basque greetings like "Kaixo" (hello) - locals appreciate effort to engage with regional culture rather than assuming Spanish everywhere. The Basque language appears on all signage alongside Spanish.
Equipment Reality Check
Bring or hire quality waterproofs regardless of the forecast - coastal conditions change rapidly. Even sunny mornings can turn wet by afternoon, especially near courses like Neguri and Zarauz.
Dining Reservations
Book premium restaurants immediately upon confirming travel plans. Top establishments like Asador Etxebarri require 6-month reservations, but this planning creates anticipation and ensures access to world-class dining.
Transportation Wisdom
Rental cars unlock the region's full potential - public transport works for city exploration, but limits golf course access. Most courses offer limited parking, so arriving by car never creates problems.
Value Opportunities
Combining good golf with three-Michelin-star dining at Basque prices offers exceptional value compared to similar experiences elsewhere in Europe. Quality local wines cost £15-25 (€20-30/$25-35) per bottle in restaurants - remarkable value for this standard.
Money-Saving Strategies
The Basque region delivers serious golf with authentic Spanish culture and world-renowned cuisine at prices that surprise visitors accustomed to resort golf pricing. This combination of championship courses, culinary excellence, and genuine local hospitality creates exceptional value for discerning travelling golfers seeking experiences beyond typical tourist destinations.
This time last year we published an article about golf in Madrid, when we visited several courses affiliated to the city’s golf association. We’ve now just returned from a similar European Golf and Travel Media Association trip to Barcelona, where six of the local golf clubs are members of Barcelona Golf Destination, an organisation that promotes these venues located around the Catalan capital. The best – and most cost effective – way to organize your golf trip is to purchase a “Golf Pass BCN” for three, four or five of the seven courses available (Real El Prat has two designated 18-hole layouts). This works out at a very reasonable 71 euros per course which is great value for the quality of golf that’s on offer. No two courses are the same and this rich variety is what makes Barcelona such an attractive place to play the game. You might be surprised to know there are actually more than a dozen golf clubs positioned in and about a city renowned for its vibrant culture, world-class restaurants, and historic landmarks, as well as its beautiful beaches and scenic surroundings. You might also be unaware of Barcelona’s growing reputation as a centre of excellence for wine tourism so there’s lots to see and do apart from golf if you visit here with your clubs. We certainly combined golf and wine on this trip, along with a little sight-seeing, but – to be honest – you really need at least a week to do proper justice to the region. Nonetheless, here’s an account of what we got up to during our short stay in Barcelona and hopefully this will provide food for thought if you’re maybe thinking of an alternative golf break in Spain, away from the crowded costas and busy islands. Following lunch and a BCN Golf Destination presentation at Real Club de Golf El Prat on Day 1 of the visit, journalists were taken to the nearby town of Terrassa, an hour’s drive north of Barcelona, to enjoy an early-evening cultural tour of the city then dinner at Hotel Don Cándido, courtesy of Consell Comarcal Del Vallès Occidental. We then returned to our overnight accommodation in the grounds of the Real El Prat Golf Club at Campus La Mola, a very modern hotel equipped with 185 guest rooms – and a free, self-service bar in the reception area! Needless to say, with such generous hospitality on offer, there weren’t many early retirals among the journalists that night, even after a long day travelling… Remember to click on any of the seven golf course links below for course reviews. El Prat Located in the heart of the Sant Llorenç del Munt natural park in the Bonvilar Country estate, Real Club de Golf El Prat moved to its current location in the late 1990s, when the expansion of the airport at Barcelona forced the club to relinquish its Javier Arana-designed layout and decamp 30 kilometres north, to a beautiful property that sits between Terrassa and Sabadell. The Greg Norman Golf Course Design firm set out a new 45-hole complex for the club, resulting in the creation of two 18-hole layouts (Yellow pictured above, Pink pictured below) and another 9-hole course which is laid out on the other side of the railway line that cuts through the southern part of the property. The Yellow course is the longer and flatter of the two main 18-hole courses at Real El Prat and it underwent a significant bunker renovation during covid when more than forty sand hazards were removed. Comparing scorecards, the Pink course isn’t quite as tough as the Yellow but there’s a lot more movement in the land, making it a more attractive layout for the ordinary golfer. When golf and lunch was over at the clubhouse on Day 2, our group was transported closer to the coast, to the Bouquet D’Allela winery which is situated within one of five designations of origin for wine in the Barcelona region. This small winery is operated by the 14th generation of the Bouquet family, maintaining an estate from a 15th century farmhouse, with vineyards cultivated using ecological techniques across 14 hectares in four local municipalities. Following a short tour and tasting session at the winery in Allela, it was on to dinner at the Nuus Restaurant in the Hotel Atenea Port in Mataró, on the Costa del Maresme, courtesy of El Maresme County Council. Llavaneras The course at Club de Golf Llavaneras is reckoned to be the 4th oldest private Catalonian golf club, dating back to 1945. Peter Gannon set out a 9-hole course originally and this was later extended by Fred Hawtree then Ramón Espinosa when more land became available. Still, with only around 85 acres in play, it’s a short track that’s fun to play, featuring tight, tree-lined fairways and small greens. As soon as lunch was finished at the Llavaneras clubhouse, there was a half-hour transfer arranged to take us to La Roca Village – one of eleven global shopping destinations under the Village brand – which is a pedestrianised, open-air collection of more than 150 boutiques, set amongst spacious tree-shaded squares and walkways. We then headed to our final port of call at the 150-bedroom Hotel Barcelona Golf Resort next to Club de Golf Barcelona, where our group enjoyed dinner in the clubhouse. Barcelona Founded as Masia Bach Golf Club in 1990, Club de Golf Barcelona operates a 9-hole executive course and a full 18-hole layout named Masia Bach. Designed by José María Olazábal, the course occupies a hilly property that must have required quite a bit of effort to construct over thirty years ago – it’s thought more than two million cubic metres of soil was shifted to fashion the fairways back then. Immediately after the morning round on Day 4 of the visit, the EGTMA group was whisked off to another nearby winery at Finca ca n’Estella which is owned and managed by the Rabetllat and Vidal family. In 1992, Mercè Rabetllat and her husband, Jaume Vidal, resumed wine making on the estate and their family still runs the business, along with a team of external professionals. After a tour of the production facilities, a leisurely tapas and wine tasting lunch rounded off the trip nicely before delegates were scheduled to be taken back to the airport. That wasn’t the end for us, however, as there were still a few other places to be checked out in the area, not least of which were the other three members of the Barcelona Golf Destination group. The next couple of days were then spent exploring these other golfing options. Montanyà The course at Golf Montanyà lies 60 kilometres north of Barcelona so it’s the furthest of the six clubs in the consortium from the city centre – however, it’s worth every minute of the 1-hour drive it takes to reach this golf club situated in the hills of the El Brull municipality. Set within the Montseny Natural Park, a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve extending to more than 30,000 hectares, the 18-hole layout is a late-1980s Dave Thomas design that packs a punch, attracting a slope index of 136 from back tees which can stretch to almost 6,200 metres in overall length. Vallromanes Situated halfway between Real Club de Golf El Prat and Club de Golf Llavaneras to the northeast of Barcelona, the course at Club de Golf Vallromanes is a Fred Hawtree design from the early 1970s which has holes laid out in two distinct compartments, with the 11th to 16th routed up and down a narrow valley. The club hosted the Spanish Open in 1985, when Seve Ballesteros won by four shots from Gordon Brand Jr. Terramar Club de Golf Terramar lies 40 kilometres southwest of Barcelona, outside the coastal town of Sitges. The golf course is actually a hundred years old, dating back to when Tom Simpson (no less) set out the original holes. Jim Fazio redesigned the layout in the 1990s and Martin Ebert has spent time upgrading the layout recently, resulting in quite a few modifications on the back nine. Postscript We found the quality of the golf product in Barcelona (both on and off the course) to be very good and very affordable so for anybody looking to combine golf with local culture on a future Spanish golf trip then serious consideration should be given to flying into the Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport for an exceptional Catalonian golfing adventure. The Barcelona Golf Destination website offers a number of attractive stay and play packages. Sincere thanks to everybody who made this such an enjoyable short trip but particular thanks to: Veronika Schöbel (Sales Manager at Club de Golf Llavaneras) Enrique Gómez (Director of Golf at Club de Golf Barcelona) Quim Vizcaino (Gerència de Serveis de Turisme with the local tourist office) Marcello della Vechia (Int. Director of Sales & Marketing at Real Club de Golf El Prat) all of whom were heavily involved in organizing the programme of events whilst the EGTMA group was in the Barcelona region – apologies if we’ve missed anybody who should be mentioned. Transportation and accommodation during the press trip was provided by Diputació de Barcelona, the Barcelona Provincial Council. Jim McCann Editor Top 100 Golf Courses
Madrid offers Europe's most accessible year-round golf destination, combining championship courses designed by legendary architects with the vibrant culture of Spain's capital city. With courses playable 365 days a year and convenient access from one of Europe's major hubs, Madrid delivers exceptional golf experiences just minutes from world-class dining, museums, and nightlife. Madrid Golf: Why It Should Be on Your List Madrid's golf scene surprises visitors with its depth and quality, offering serious golfers a compelling alternative to traditional European golf destinations. The city's elevated plateau provides excellent playing conditions year-round, whilst its compact geography means championship courses lie within 30 minutes of the city centre. Championship pedigree: Multiple courses host professional tournaments including the Spanish Open Design legends: Courses by Robert Trent Jones, Jack Nicklaus, and Harry Colt within easy reach Year-round playability: Mediterranean climate with over 300 playing days annually Accessibility: Direct flights from major European cities, 20 minutes from airport to city centre Cultural immersion: Experience authentic Spanish golf culture with proper dress codes and traditions Madrid's Best Golf Courses Real Sociedad Hípica Española Club de Campo - Home to Madrid's golf elite, this prestigious club features two Robert Trent Jones designs. The North Course hosts professional tournaments, whilst the South Course offers a more forgiving but equally scenic challenge. Green fees are approximately £85 (€100/$110) with member introduction. Real Club de Golf La Moraleja - Features two courses, where the original "Arriba" course showcases Harry Colt's classic design philosophy. The redesigned "Abajo" course now rivals its famous sibling for quality and challenge. This exclusive venue regularly appears on Spain's top course rankings. Green fees are approximately £95 (€110/$125) with member introduction. Villa de Madrid - Current host of the Spanish Open, this municipal course surprises with its championship conditioning despite having 30,000 members. The layout tests every aspect of your game whilst remaining accessible to visiting golfers. Green fees approximately £45 (€50/$60) as a public facility. La Dehesa Golf Club - Jack Nicklaus designed four courses here, with Course 3 hosting most tournaments and Course 4 featuring the signature design element of tees positioned within fairways rather than traditional tee boxes. Both offer distinct challenges showcasing Nicklaus's strategic design principles. Green fees approximately £75 (€85/$95). Santander Golf - This Robert Trent Jones Jr. creation serves as the home course for Banco Santander, featuring mature parkland design with strategic water features and elevated greens. The conditioning rivals any private club in Europe. Green fees approximately £80 (€95/$105) with advance booking essential. Madrid's Best Kept Golf Secrets RACE (Real Automóvil Club de España) - This hidden gem showcases work by Javier Arana, Spain's most celebrated golf architect. The course weaves through mature parkland with subtle elevation changes and greens that reward precision over power. Green fees approximately £60 (€70/$80). La Herrería Golf Club - Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama, this course offers spectacular views of the historic El Escorial monastery. The mountain setting creates unique playing conditions with dramatic elevation changes. Green fees approximately £50 (€60/$65), 45 minutes from Madrid centre. Lomas-Bosque Golf Club - A parkland design that emphasises strategic thinking over length, featuring mature oak trees and well-positioned water hazards. The course rewards local knowledge and careful club selection. Green fees approximately £45 (€50/$60). El Olivar de la Hinojosa - Madrid's best public golf facility offers links-style golf unusual for inland Spain. Severe greens and minimal tree coverage create wind-challenged conditions reminiscent of Scottish golf. Despite modest conditioning, the design provides excellent value. Green fees approximately £35 (€40/$45). La Dehesa de Montecarmelo - Another municipal option that punches above its weight, offering solid design and reliable conditioning at accessible prices. The layout suits players seeking strategic challenges without premium pricing. Green fees approximately £40 (€45/$50). La Finca Golf Club - A newer addition to Madrid's golf scene offering modern design and excellent conditioning. The layout combines traditional parkland elements with contemporary strategic challenges. Sample Itinerary: 5-Day Madrid Golf Adventure Day 1: Arrive Madrid-Barajas Airport, transfer to city centre hotel (20 minutes), afternoon round at Villa de Madrid to experience Spanish Open venue, evening tapas tour in La Latina district. Day 2: Morning round at Real Sociedad Hípica Española Club de Campo North Course, afternoon exploring Prado Museum, dinner at Michelin-starred restaurant in Salamanca district. Day 3: Day trip to La Herrería Golf Club with monastery visit, return to Madrid for an evening in the Malasaña neighbourhood, discovering local wine bars. Day 4: Morning round at Club de Golf La Moraleja, afternoon at Royal Palace and Retiro Park, farewell dinner featuring Madrid's signature cocido madrileño (off-day only - too heavy before golf). Day 5: Final round at La Dehesa Course 3, afternoon departure or extend stay for Madrid's legendary nightlife. Seasonal Variations: Summer rounds are best scheduled before 9 AM or after 5 PM during July-August. Winter may require frost delays until midday on some mornings. Madrid Travel Logistics Transportation: Rental cars are recommended for golf course access, though Uber and taxis serve all venues within 30 minutes of the city centre. Madrid's excellent public transport covers city attractions, but golf courses require private transport. Most courses offer shuttle services from select hotels with advance arrangements. Weather & Packing: Madrid's continental climate suits golf year-round. March-June and September-November provide optimal conditions with temperatures 15-25°C (59-77°F). Summer reaches 35-38°C (95-100°F), but low humidity keeps the weather comfortable. Winter rarely drops below freezing, though morning frost delays occur. Pack layers, including light rain gear and sun protection. Equipment: All courses offer club rental with quality sets available. Electric trolleys and golf carts are available but not mandatory except at hillier courses. Communication: English is widely spoken at upmarket courses, though basic Spanish is helpful at municipal venues. Golf terminology translates easily, and most pro shop staff speak multiple languages. Documentation: Handicap certificates required at private clubs, with a maximum 28 for men and 36 for women. Some exclusive venues may require lower handicaps or member introduction. Where to Stay for Madrid Golf Luxury Hotels: The Palace Madrid and Hotel Villa Magna anchor the premium category, offering concierge services for golf bookings and prime locations for exploring Madrid between rounds. Expect rates from £200-400 (€235-470/$260-520) per night. Boutique Options: Hotel Único Madrid and Hotel Orfila provide intimate luxury with personalised service, often including golf booking assistance and equipment storage. These properties blend local character with modern amenities. Business Hotels: Major international chains like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt offer reliable quality with golf-friendly policies, including early breakfast and equipment storage. Locations near the Castellana business district provide easy course access. City Centre Character: Traditional Spanish hotels in Salamanca and Chamberí districts offer an authentic Madrid atmosphere whilst maintaining convenient access to both courses and cultural attractions. Strategic location planning considers that most championship courses lie north and west of the city centre, making hotels in these areas slightly more convenient for golf, whilst sacrificing some nightlife access. Madrid's Culinary Scene Madrid's dining scene rivals any European capital, offering everything from neighbourhood tapas bars to three-Michelin-starred establishments. The city's late dining culture means restaurants rarely serve dinner before 9 PM, perfect for post-round meals. Premium Dining: DiverXO, Madrid's only three-Michelin-starred restaurant, showcases innovative Spanish-Asian fusion. Book months ahead and expect approximately £200-300 (€235-350/$260-390) per person. Numerous one and two-star venues offer exceptional experiences from £80-150 (€95-175/$105-195). Regional Specialities: Madrid concentrates Spain's best regional cuisine, particularly excellent Basque restaurants. The city's signature dish, cocido madrileño, provides hearty winter sustenance, but avoid it before golf rounds due to its substantial nature. Post-Round Dining: Traditional taverns around Plaza Mayor and La Latina offer authentic tapas experiences. Menu del día lunch options provide excellent value at £15-20 (€18-25/$20-25) including wine. Golf Club Dining: Most private clubs maintain excellent restaurants serving traditional Spanish cuisine. Member guests often enjoy reciprocal dining privileges between clubs. Wine enthusiasts should explore Spain's renowned "Four Rs" - the premium denominations of origin that define Spanish viticulture. Rioja remains the most internationally recognised for elegant reds, whilst Ribera del Duero produces powerful, structured reds from higher altitudes. For whites, Rueda delivers crisp, mineral-driven wines, and Ribeiro from Galicia showcases Atlantic-influenced styles, including the celebrated Albariño. Madrid's restaurants offer extensive selections from all four regions, with many venues featuring comprehensive Spanish wine lists that showcase these distinctive regional characters. Booking Golf in Madrid Advance Requirements: Championship courses require 1-2 weeks' advance booking during peak seasons (spring and autumn). Private clubs often need member introductions or handicap certificates, arranged through hotel concierges or golf travel specialists. Seasonal Patterns: March-June and September-November see the highest demand. July-August offer easier bookings despite the heat, whilst winter provides excellent availability with occasional frost delays. Weekend Challenges: Private clubs restrict weekend access for non-members, with green fees often tripling. Weekday play offers better access, pricing, and course conditions. Package Options: Many hotels offer golf packages, including guaranteed tee times, transfers, and preferential rates. Golf tour operators specialising in Spain provide access to exclusive venues otherwise difficult to book independently. Local Booking: Pro shops typically speak English and handle international visitors regularly. Direct booking is often possible at municipal courses, whilst private venues may require an introduction. Explore Beyond Golf Madrid ranks among Europe's cultural capitals, offering world-class museums, architecture, and entertainment within walking distance of most hotels. Cultural Highlights: The Golden Triangle of Art (Prado, Reina Sofía, Thyssen-Bornemisza museums) showcases masterpieces from Velázquez to Picasso. Royal Palace tours reveal Spanish imperial grandeur, whilst Retiro Park provides peaceful respite from urban energy. Local Experiences: Sunday flea market at El Rastro, flamenco performances in authentic tablaos, and neighbourhood food markets like Mercado de San Miguel offer authentic Madrid culture. Day Trips: Toledo's medieval architecture lies 30 minutes by train, whilst Segovia's Roman aqueduct and fairy-tale castle provide another UNESCO World Heritage experience within easy reach. Family Activities: Madrid Zoo, Warner Bros Theme Park, and numerous parks cater to non-golfing family members, whilst the city's pedestrian-friendly centre suits all ages. Madrid's legendary nightlife scene operates later than most European cities, with peak activity between midnight and 4 am... Insider Local Knowledge Common Mistakes: Don't underestimate Madrid's summer heat - be careful whrn booking afternoon tee times. Local Advantages: Driving ranges require payment even at private clubs, typically £5-10 (€6-12/$7-13) for 50 balls. Cultural Protocols: Spanish golf maintains formal etiquette similar to British traditions. Collared shirts are mandatory everywhere, with most clubs requiring proper golf shoes and prohibiting denim. Equipment Reality: Quality rental clubs are available, but book ahead during busy periods. Electric trolleys are more popular than golf carts except at hilly venues. Caddies are virtually non-existent - modern Spanish golfers prefer self-carried or trolley golf. Strategic Planning: Morning rounds offer the best conditions and faster play. Afternoon siestas still influence some club operations between 2-4 PM. Budget Planning & Travel Value Madrid golf delivers exceptional value compared to other European golf capitals, combining championship course access with reasonable pricing and comprehensive amenities. Value Opportunities: Municipal courses offer championship-quality golf at accessible prices. Menu del día lunch menus provide excellent value. Off-season winter golf combines great weather with reduced rates. Money-Saving Tips Weekday golf dramatically reduces costs at private clubs. Hotel golf packages often include guaranteed tee times worth premium value. Public transport covers city attractions efficiently, reserving taxis/Uber for golf course access only. Madrid's combination of golf excellence, cultural richness, and accessible pricing creates one of Europe's best value golf destinations for discerning players seeking authentic Spanish experiences alongside championship golf.
Great Golf in Girona Spain is a very popular European golfing destination. Whether it’s mainland hot spots like the Costa Blanca, Costa Almeria or Costa Del Sol, or any of the Canary or Balearic Islands, most golfers are happy to tee it up where the sun is virtually guaranteed all year round. Recently, this website has moved away from the mainstream to explore some city-orientated golfing options. In 2022, eyes were opened to golf in and around the capital city of Madrid and last year it was the turn of Barcelona to demonstrate how good the game was in Catalunya. Last month, we returned to the northeast of the country around Girona, where the Costa Brava Girona Tourist Board laid on a wonderful 4-day trip for a select number of invited golf media journalists to experience some great golf and participate in a few local activities. Located between Barcelona and the border with France, the province of Girona is a welcoming, tourist-friendly area with good road and rail links to transport tourists to and from its many attractions. Food plays an important part in the social fabric of the province. Currently, there are a dozen Michelen-starred restaurants (with 17 stars in total) open around the Girona region, ably supported by 51 wineries, more than half of which offer wine tourist tours. There’s a wide variety of leisure activities available here – ranging from road cycling and mountain biking to water sports such as swimming and canoeing – and in the winter there are five ski resorts in operation with thrilling runs down more than 200 kilometres of slopes. Of course, we were here primarily for the golf, starting at Peralada and ending at Camiral, but along the way we also enjoyed a late evening stroll around the small medieval town of Pals, a late afternoon excursion to the Palamós Fish Auction & Museum, and a wine tasting tour of the spectacular Peralada Winery. Remember to click on any of the five-course links below to read a review for the layout. Peralada Things got underway at the Peralada Hotel, located less than an hour’s drive north of Girona airport, close to the small town of Figueres, where Salvador Dali was born. The accommodation comprises 64 comfortable and elegant rooms and suites, with some of these overlooking the Golf Club Peralada golf course. The 18-hole layout entered the Spanish Top 100 for the first time last year at a lofty #62, making it one of the highest entries from an intake of twenty five. It’s a mid-1990s design from local architects Jordi Soler Peix and Eugenio Arguado which is nicely routed over a rolling landscape within a large estate. After golf, there was the opportunity to visit the Peralada Winery, a very modern state-of-the art facility that was once nothing other than a collection of old farm buildings. Refurbished at a reputed cost of €40 million over a 4-year period, this winery is an absolute must-see for visiting golfers. Pals The course at Golf de Pals was next on the itinerary the following day. Situated less than a couple of kilometres from the coast, this 18-hole layout is a Fred Hawtree design from the mid-1960s, with tight, umbrella pine-lined fairways that often lead to small, raised greens. If an intimate golf experience is what you’re looking for then look no further. The atmospheric clubhouse is jam-packed with old photos of golfers who’ve played here in the past during various events – in fact, the 1972 edition of the Open de España at Pals (won by Antonio Garrido) was the first ever official event ever staged on the European Tour. When golf was over for the day, an early evening tour of the nearby medieval town of Pals was arranged. This small settlement sits on a hill overlooking the surrounding plains, with narrow cobbled streets rising gently up to a 15-metre-tall Romanesque tower called Torre de les Hores. Costa Brava The morning of Day Three was spent at Club de Golf Costa Brava outside Santa Cristina D’Aro, where John Hamilton Stutt set out the original eighteen holes in the mid-1960s. The layout has since been altered following the introduction of an additional 9-hole track 20 years ago. It may be short – at just 5600 metres from the back tees – but it’s also very sweet. In the afternoon, a short 20-minute drive took the group to the coastal town of Palamós, where a guided tour of the fish market was organized, along with a visit to the Museu de la Pesca next door. Now the only commercial harbour remaining in the Province of Girona, Palamós retains one of the last remaining fishing fleets in the northeast of the country. Camiral The final day of the trip was hosted by Camiral Golf & Wellness near Girona airport, with a round on the fabulous Stadium course. First opened for play 25 years ago, it’s one of the finest 18-hole layouts in all of Europe. Specifically intended to host European Tour events, this Neil Coles & Angel Gallardo design certainly tests elite players, whilst at the same time allowing the ordinary golfer to relish their round from more forward tee positions. After lunch in The Club Café restaurant, EGTMA members embarked on a short tour of the newly upgraded Golf Hub (now featuring advanced swing technology infrastructure) before having a look round the Camiral Hotel, which has 138 on-site rooms and suites – and the wellness centre offers whole-body cryotherapy and oxygen chamber therapy! D’Aro The official visit came to an end but we had one final place to see before flying home. The course at Club Golf D’Aro sits atop a high plateau some four kilometres inland from the coast and it’s an early 1990s design from Ramon Espinosa, who also worked at Fontanals and Llavaneras in Catalunya. There’s lots to like about D'Aro with big elevation changes, occasional water hazards, gullies and big bunkers to contend with along the way – for sure, this isn’t a course you’ll get bored playing. And if you’re game is not quite up to the mark on the day, there’s always the surrounding vistas to marvel at. Thanks The Girona event was arranged through the European Golf and Travel Media Association and expertly organized by Miriam Moya from the Marketing Department at Costa Brava Girona Tourist Board. Participants were lucky enough to stay in three excellent accommodations: the 5-star Hotel Perelada, the 4-star Hotel La Costa Beach & Golf Resort in Pals and the 4-star Hotel Aromar in Playa D’Aro. Journalists had breakfast in all three hotels, ate lunch in the clubhouse at Golf de Pals, Golf Costa Brava and Camiral then enjoyed dinner at Restaurant Mas Lazuli in Pau, Mooma near Fontclara and Bufet Mestra in Hotel Aromar. Sincere thanks to everybody involved in creating such a memorable golf outing to this intriguing northeast corner of Spain. Jim McCann Member European Golf and Travel Media Association
