The San Roque Club is a prominent golf club located in San Roque, Andalucía, Spain. It is renowned in the golfing community, particularly for its Old Course, which has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments and continues to attract a global audience of golf enthusiasts.
The Old Course at The San Roque Club is especially notable for its challenging layout, which is designed to test the skills of experienced golfers. This course is steeped in history and has seen many high-level tournaments take place on its fairways. Golfers are advised to prioritize accuracy over distance, especially on the front nine, as narrow fairways and strategically placed hazards can significantly impact their score if not navigated precisely.
Precision and Prestige at The San Roque Club
One of the standout features of the Old Course is its signature hole, known for combining natural scenery with a demanding design. This hole often includes water hazards or unique elevation changes, requiring precise and strategic shot-making. It presents a significant challenge even for the most skilled golfers, while also offering a memorable and picturesque experience that is often highlighted by the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
The San Roque Club also offers a variety of member benefits, including discounts and access to training classes. These training opportunities range from one-on-one lessons with PGA Professionals to group clinics and junior golf programs, catering to golfers of different skill levels and helping them to improve their game. This commitment to providing quality training and development opportunities further enhances the club’s reputation among golfing communities worldwide.
In summary, The San Roque Club in San Roque, Andalucía, is a distinguished golfing destination, best known for its challenging Old Course. The course’s demanding layout and rich history make it a favorite among experienced golfers. Additionally, the club’s commitment to providing extensive training options and member benefits solidify its standing as a premier golf club. The signature hole of the Old Course stands out for its combination of strategic design and natural beauty, offering golfers both a challenge and a visually striking experience.
Holmsland Klit Golfklub is located in Ringkøbing, Denmark. Positioned along the west coast, the club offers access to unique natural surroundings and the sound of the ocean. Golf Post interviewed to the club.
Seaside Golf in Denmark
The club has highlighted the distinctive nature of the course’s location. Being close to the sea, players can enjoy the sounds of waves and the environment. Additionally, the course’s vicinity to the dunes adds to the overall experience. These features provide a setting that merges golf with the local coastal landscape.
From the feedback received, there is mention of playing four days for a total of 120 euros. This access offers an accessible opportunity for golfers to experience what the course has to offer. A note about the specific hole, Hole 10, emphasizes its proximity to the water, suggesting a memorable golfing spot.
Summarizing, Holmsland Klit Golfklub presents a golf experience intertwined with nature. Located in a coastal area, it offers a unique blend of sea and dunes, making it a noteworthy destination for golfers. The pricing for extended play further adds to its attractiveness.
Trump International Golf Links and Hotel Ireland is located in Doonbeg, County Clare, Ireland. This golf course is known for its links style, presenting a challenging experience for players of all skill levels. The course offers a unique opportunity to play against natural elements, enhancing the competitive aspect for experienced golfers. The facility is committed to providing comprehensive guidance from their golf professionals to accommodate both beginners and those looking to improve their game further.
Where the Links Meet the Bay: A Golfer’s Scenic Challenge
The camaraderie and friendliness between members and staff is a notable feature of the club, creating a welcoming environment. Golfers visiting the course can enjoy playing with a caddy, enhancing their experience. The signature hole, Hole 14, offers a view of Doughmore Bay and is considered the most picturesque spot on the course. This hole stands out for its spectacular setting where the links meet the bay, providing a memorable visual treat for players.
Private and group lessons are available year-round, reflecting the club’s dedication to skill development. Trump International Golf Links and Hotel Ireland offers golfing instruction tailored to individual needs, whether players are at the beginning level or seeking advanced improvement. This ensures that all golfers have the opportunity to enhance their skills through personalized coaching.
The greenskeepers at Trump International Golf Links and Hotel Ireland put significant effort into maintaining the course in optimal condition. The team works diligently to keep the greens pristine, ensuring that golfers can enjoy their time on a well-kept course. The commitment to maintenance supports a top-quality golfing experience, making the course attractive to both new and returning visitors.
In summary, Trump International Golf Links and Hotel Ireland in Doonbeg, County Clare, is noted for its challenging links course, friendly environment, comprehensive player support, and exceptional course maintenance. Hole 14 stands out for its remarkable view over Doughmore Bay, adding a unique value to the golfing experience.
Älmhults Golfklubb (GK) is located in Älmhult, Sweden, within the Småland region. The course offers a robust golfing experience and is available for play year-round, closing only under snow conditions.
Golfing in the Heart of Småland
Access to the course is inclusive, allowing entry to everyone, and even dogs are permitted. Players are encouraged to read the course map before starting their round to familiarize themselves with the layout. One of the notable features is the green of hole 11, which presents a significant challenge regardless of the flag’s position.
Special green fee arrangements are available for married couples, adding to the course’s accessibility. Additionally, Älmhults GK collaborates with the IKEA Hotell to provide accommodation packages. This partnership aims to offer a comprehensive and convenient experience for visiting golfers.
The course also accommodates visitors traveling in motorhomes, with designated space for up to eight vehicles. This service enhances the course’s appeal, catering to a broad spectrum of golfing tourists.
Located in the picturesque region of Piedmont, Italy, the Golf Club Cherasco lies within the heart of the Langhe area. Known for its strategic position, the golf club serves as a prime destination for golfers seeking to experience the unique terrain and challenges presented by this historic region.
The Golf Club Cherasco caters to every type of golfer, providing an all-encompassing experience. The course is designed to ensure that the first stroke lands on the fairway, setting an early tone for the entire round. A notable feature is the second shot at the 13th hole, where a lake is positioned in front of the green, adding a layer of complexity and requiring precise execution from the players.
Accessible Greenfees and Memberships at GC Cherasco
Promotions related to memberships and the initiation of new players into golf are available at the Golf Club Cherasco. These offers are designed to make the sport more accessible and encourage participation among newcomers. However, specifics of these promotions were not provided in the information submitted.
In summary, the Golf Club Cherasco is strategically positioned in the Langhe area of Piedmont, Italy. The course layout is crafted to challenge golfers right from the opening shot, with particular emphasis on the memorable 13th hole featuring a lake before the green. Various promotions aim to attract new golfers and foster a broader interest in the sport.
Located in the Veneto region of Italy, the Golf Club Rovigo is situated in the city of Rovigo. The club is uniquely integrated into the local school system, providing a distinct opportunity for youth to engage with the sport from an early age. This integration aims to promote golf within the educational environment, encouraging students to try the sport through accessible practice facilities and incentives.
Nurturing the Next Generation of Golfers in Rovigo
The practice field at Golf Club Rovigo offers a green fee of €5, which includes free balls. This affordability is aimed at making golf accessible to a wider audience. The club provides free courses for students, fostering early interest and skill development in the sport. For adults, there is an option to take a five-lesson course for a fee of €100. This structured approach allows individuals to gain foundational skills under professional guidance.
In addition to its educational initiatives, the Golf Club Rovigo strives to maintain a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. The club’s motto, “try golf and you won’t regret it,” highlights its commitment to providing a positive and encouraging environment for all participants. This is evident in its affordable pricing and its wide range of programs designed to cater to different age groups and skill levels.
Summary: Golf Club Rovigo, located in the Veneto region of Italy, emphasizes accessibility and education in promoting the sport. The practice field offers an economical green fee with complimentary balls, alongside free courses for students and reasonably priced lessons for adults. The club’s integration into local schools underscores its mission to nurture a lifelong interest in golf among young individuals.
Cornwall's rugged north coast and St Enodoc Golf Club. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Love is in the air
The county of Cornwall in the far south-west of England is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the United Kingdom among the German-speaking population. More than 50 per cent of foreign visitors come from the D-A-CH region. The British bestselling author Rosamunde Pilcher, who has been captivating television audiences with her love stories for many years, plays a major part in this. German television Channel ZDF alone has filmed more than 170 episodes of her novels and short stories in the Herzkino series since 1993.
We want to see for ourselves what it’s like in the region surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the English Channel and the Celtic Sea, whether love really is in the air there and what makes its top golf course so special.
Keep your eyes open in left-hand traffic
We decide not to take the plane to Newquay, but instead make our way to the island in our own car. After a two-hour crossing on the ferry from Calais to Dover, we immediately have to be very careful, because from here onwards we have to drive on the left. We get used to this just as quickly as we do to the unusual roundabouts, which are no rocket science. In contrast to driving, however, walking is a real challenge, because at the beginning I always look in the wrong direction when crossing the road.
On the journey to England’s most westernmost tip, we first spend a night in Salisbury and then the next day in Torquay, which is further south in Devon on the English Riviera.
From there, we travel right across Cornwall to the northern coast of the county. A first highlight is the village of Tintagel, where we enjoy the marvellous view from the steep cliffs to the green-blue sea in beautiful weather. Here are the remains of Tintagel Castle, where King Arthur is said to have been conceived. We reach it after crossing an impressive bridge and come across a 2.40 metre high Gallos sculpture. Deep down in the rock we come across Merlin’s Cave, the cave in which the infant Arthur was brought to safety by the wizard Merlin.
70 m long Tintangel Bridge und Gallos sculpture. (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Getting out and running away is not an alternative
So far, the traffic has been relaxed. This changes abruptly when we leave the main road and have to take a small side road along the coast to our accommodation. We assume that we have overlooked the one-way street sign, as it is no more than three metres wide and is bordered by dense, tall bushes. But we are way off the mark.
When an SUV comes towards us and I see another one in my rear-view mirror, almost glued to my bumper, my adrenalin level rises dramatically. I back up slowly and manoeuvre until I find a small niche at the side of the road. This way of travelling will become the norm over the next few days. Fortunately, we are quickly recognised as guests with our German number plates and meet with a lot of understanding from the Cornish people. We come to terms and make progress even in the narrowest lanes.
Where golf meets the Atlantic
The next morning we are greeted by typical British weather. Looking out of the window, we consider postponing our round of golf, but we don’t want to be hot showers, so we put on our rain gear and drive to St Enodoc Golf Club in Rock.
The championship plinks course is situated on high dunes, directly above the huge bay of the Camel Estuary with breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic.
Camel Estuary in fine weather. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Its Church Course (a second is the shorter, less challenging Holywell Course) is considered one of the most beautiful in England. It was officially founded in the mighty dunes of the village of Rock in 1890, whilst famours golf architect James Braid designed the first full 18 holes that excist today in 1907. Adaptations have been made time and again to this day, although the original layout has essentially been retained. In 1987, the club acquired additional land from the Duchy of Cornwall.
It is situated in one of the driest parishes in Cornwall whilst its location on sand guarantees excellent golfing conditions all year round. Thanks to the warm Gulf Stream climate, frost is a rarity.
‚A warm summer breeze‘
That’s how the marshal describes the current weather conditions. Well, it feel like 18 degrees and luckily there is little wind at the start. We are lucky because the humidity means that the greens, which are otherwise as fast as an arrow and as hard as concrete, are supposed to be ‘playable’.
As our weather app predicts heavy rain for later in the afternoon, we are happy to be able to start well before our booked tee time. There is a light drizzle and the wind is limited.
There are four different tee boxes, but on the marshal’s recommendation, I tee off from the yellow ones. From here, the par 69 course has a length of 6,108 yards. As usual, women start from red and have 5,657 yards to cover. The course only has two par 5s, but five par 3s, the longest of which measures 200 yards for me.
The undulating, wide fairway of the hole #1, one of the two par 5s, stretches out in front of us. There is a pole on it that serves as a direction for the drive as the tee shot is completely blind. In the background we can see the sea, which has receded considerably at the start of our round due to the low tide.
Rolling fairways with a fantastic view. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The course is much hillier than expected; it is constantly up and downhill, on occasions with considerable differences in altitude. We lose our bearings as a result of some blind tees and don’t really know which way to hit the drive at first. The main thing is to get over the rough of the dune in front of us though we don’t always succeed.
Where do we have to go from here? (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Numerous walkers often cross the fairways on paths that are located at the edge, but also in the midst of the course. They have priority over golfers and must be allowed to pass until they are no longer in danger.
In quite a few cases, they are accompanied by their four-legged friends. One of the dogs really helps me, at least on one hole, by picking up my poorly placed tee shot and putting it down in the middle of the fairway. Well trained indeed! But golfers can also take their pets onto the course as . is common practice in England even on a top course like this one in England. At special bins labelled ‘Dog Waste’, masters and mistresses can then dispose of their droppings.
Dogs are welcome. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Cave-like bunker
On the 6th fairway, we come across a huge bunker called The Himalaya. It is said to be the highest of its kind in England, and perhaps in Europe. Fortunately, I don’t go in it, but I do hit the dune on the left in front of it. After an unusual recovery shot, I continue on.
Challenges on hole #6. (Photos: St Enodoc-Images and Juergen Linnenbuerger (right))
Background to the course name
The most difficult and at the same time most impressive hole is the 10th, which competes with the 6th for the course’s signature hole. From the elevated tee, we play the ball over a frontal wall and a path into the not very generous landing zone. From there, you need to keep the ball to the right, as there is a risk of water on the left. Next to the green on the right-hand side, it becomes clear where the course gets its name from.
Hole #10, the signature hole. (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Where else would you find a church and a cemetery between individual holes on a golf course? We pay a brief visit to the exposed 12th century Normannic church and once again pass it again from the elevated tee of the 14th behind. Sir John Betjeman, a renowned poet and poetess, has been buried here since 1984.
Great view from the steeply rising hole #14. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The following 15th is directly facing the Atlantic. As the marshal tells us, the choice of club on the sloping 152-yard par 3 varies greatly depending on the wind direction. It can vary between an eight iron and a driver. I take my seven iron and luckily hit the green.
Hole #15 – a challenging par 3. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
When we arrive here, we are already completely soaked. We have long since stowed our dripping gloves in the bag. Unfortunately, the weather forecast has come true and it is pouring cats and dogs and the wind is now blowing strongly. We give it our all on the 16th, the second par 5, as well as on the following par 3 and on the final par 4.
We won’t forget a single moment of our round on this great golf course, which was ranked 74th in the world, 10th in England and 1st in Cornwall by top100GolfCourses.com in 2022.
Padstow has a lot to offer
On the other side of the bay is the harbour of the small town of Padstow, which has all the clichés of a Cornish fishing village. Although the great fishing days are over, fresh lobsters and crabs are still delivered to the port every day.
Freshly caught crustaceans on the plate. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The cheeky, giant seagulls seem to be afraid of nothing and characterise the acoustic image of this charming village. Pubs with flags, beautifully decorated little shops and a number of seafood restaurants line the streets here.
The picturesque fishing village of Padstow. (Photos: St Enodoc-Images)
The price level in Cornwall corresponds to that of a popular tourist destination. Both the costs for the selected overnight stays and for food and drink in restaurants are in the higher segment.
One of the town’s flagship attractions is Prideaux Place Castle with its impressive 18-hectare deer park and 81 rooms. It is the only one of its kind that is both privately owned and inhabited but nevertheless, it is open to the public. The Prideaux family is an ancient Cornish family with roots dating back to 1066 and have lived here for 14 generations. The current owners moved here in 1988 and have extensively renovated the manor house.
A castle to fall in love with. (Photos: St. Enodoc-Images and Juergen Linnenbuerger (right))
The magnificent building is known for its Elizabethan and Gothic architecture and its well-preserved interior, which have attracted various film producers. German television channel ZDF, for example, filmed the Pilcher episodes ‘The End of a Summer’, ‘Homecoming’ and ‘Woman on the Cliff’ here.
The extremely informative and humorous tour by German Hilde Mansfield, who naturally moved here for love and has lived in the region for 32 years, could not have been better. She is living proof that love is in the air here. A visit to this impressive estate is not only recommended for Pilcher fans but anyone who loves history.
We leave the region around Tintagel and Padstow and explore other highlights of beautiful Cornwall. These include among others the enchanting village of St Ives and St Mawes Castle in Falmouth, which towers high above the sea. Dew Genes Kernow (good bye Cornwall).
Two must-sees on a Cornwall round trip. (Photos: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Arzaga Golf and QC Termegarda (Photos: AZALEA (left) and Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Style and class in an oasis of tranquillity
From the nearest airport in Verona, it takes three quarters of an hour by car to reach the QC Termegarda Spa & Golf Resort, which is surrounded by 144 hectares of parkland in a completely tranquil setting. The 78 rooms and suites are spread over three buildings with direct access to an exceptional Spa world.
It is part of the QC Terme group, which was founded by the brothers Saverio and Andrea Quadrio Curzio in Bormio in 1988. Today, 12 wellness centres and hotels belong to the largest Italian wellness group. The newest members are located on Grovenors Island near New York and the resort here in Calvagese de la Riviera, which opened in 2022.
As soon as I drive up the narrow avenue to the 15th century Renaissance building, I feel a sense of well-being that intensifies as I pass through the huge entrance door. My inner clock is immediately set to calm and serenity.
Driveway and entrance to the resort (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The open-plan reception of the five-star resort appears rather inconspicuous in the imposing entrance area supported by tall pillars.
Feel good from the very first moment (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The extraordinary aesthetics of this stylish, classic ambiance continue up the marble staircases into the rooms.
Moving in through a bygone era (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The historically frescoed walls of the five different room categories, the heavy curtains and the floors covered in fine woods or natural stone are further characteristics of this impressive retreat.
Plenty of space in a dignified atmosphere (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Contrasts increase the appeal
I take the lift from the hotel reception to the area of the Arzaga Golf Club, two floors below. This is characterised by a huge, open-plan golf floor with round arches and stone cladding that echoes the architecture of the main building, but is otherwise a complete contrast to the rest of the hotel.
Bright and inviting (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Here I come across modern changing rooms with a straightforward design, a transparent glass golf reception area, an inviting Pro shop, two cosy lounge areas with colourful, modern seating elements and huge TV screens.
The restaurant ‚Bistro’ with bar and adjoining terrace is on the same level. Everything is stylish and flooded with light.
Renowned golf course architects
The view from the restaurant and the terrace of the four golf holes (#1, #9, #10 and #18) stretching out below is magnificent. They are part of the course designed by Jack Nicklaus II, who is responsible for two 9-hole loops of the 27-hole Arzaga Golf.
Jack’s son has created an American-style layout characterised by wide, open fairways. Strategically placed bunkers and numerous lakes and ponds, which come into play on seven holes, require special care.
The holes are generously designed and lead through mostly flat terrain. The five different tees offer something suitable for every HCP class. It is a typical par 72 resort course with a length of 5,960 metres from the yellow tees. It has a length of 5,180 metres from the red tees. It is a pleasure to play and allows a good score, provided you avoid the abundance of water. Again and again, the course offers marvellous views of the mountains in the background.
Green of hole #6 and hole #7 carry over the water (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The front nine of the Jack Nicklaus Course ends with a beautiful view of the elevated resort buildings.
Numerous bunkers and water also at hole #9 (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
At the tenth hole you need to cross a bridge after the Tee.
Nice bridge on #10 (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The 18th fairway, the signature hole, is a worthy finale. The drive is best placed on the right-hand side of the fairway, as the hole to the green is flanked by twp ponds on the left-hand side.
The remaining nine holes are thanks to South African golf legend Gary Player. The round bunkers, some of which are crater-deep, are one of his famous challenges. The par 36 course begins steeply uphill behind the hotel building. It has a length of 2,860 metres from the yellow tees and 2,495 metres from the red tees.
From the highest point of the course, you play the tee shot of the first hole deep into the fairway, which is laid out as a dogleg to the right. If you leave the bunkers on the right out of play, the green is reachable with the second shot.
A smart start to the round (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
After the third hole, the course opens up. The beautiful flowering plants that surround the fairways and give them natural contours are striking. This is also the case on 4th fairway, which has it all. At 538 metres from the yellow tees, it is the longest and most difficult hole of the round, which requires a precise shot past a pond into the green.
Natural boundary of the fairways (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The best example of the designer’s preference for deep bunkers is the 7th fairway. There are five of them in the drive’s landing zone.
Danger on all sides at hole #7 (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The 8th is a beautifully laid out par 5 dogleg left. After the tee shot, the course leads deep down the hill and ends in a green surrounded by dense trees.
Best to stay left with the second shot (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The round ends with a par 3 that runs above the car park with a beautiful view of the hotel and the local church. Its laterally sloping green is well defended on the left-hand side by numerous bunkers. If you don’t hit it in the right place, the ball rolls down.
Unusual – a par 3 at the end (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The two courses are in very good condition. Despite some inclines, they are walkable as most of the holes are flat. Electric trolleys and buggies are available in large numbers. However, the latter are only permitted on the paths.
Perfect training conditions
The spacious practice facilities at the Arzaga Golf Academy include a huge practice bunker as well as large chipping and putting greens. The panoramic view of the mountains towering in the background from the sloping driving range is spectacular. No other practice facility in Italy offers such a view.
Downhill Driving Range (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The academy is technically state-of-the-art. It is equipped with Trackman, BodiTrack Golf System and SAM PuttLab. There is also a golf simulator in the hotel building.
In addition to two Italian PGA pros, the coaching team includes Texan PGA Pro Lukas McNair, who has worked with renowned teaching pros in the USA in recent years. He was part of the recognised Hank Haney Construction Team for more than 10 years. All Pros are available for individual and group training sessions for both beginners and advanced players.
SPA OF WONDERS
The idea of the Quadrio Curzio brothers was to revolutionise the tradition of the classic Roman thermal bath therapy ‘salus per aquam’. This means ‘health through water’. The aim is to create places of extreme beauty with a remarkable aesthetic effect, where body and mind can regenerate.
It is difficult to make the right choice from the extensive range offered by the resort’s huge wellness centre. Thirty different options are available to external guests day or overnight guests. These include various panoramic pools, whirlpools, steam baths, saunas, fragrant relaxation rooms, massage and beauty treatments. All of this is spread over a multi-storey indoor area and enchanting gardens surrounded by hedges and featuring impressive statues.
Numerous outdoor and indoor pools (Photo: AZALEA)
I was particularly impressed by the Atmospheric Pool. While extreme weather situations are projected onto the walls of the room and run past, incredible masses of rain pour down on the bathers from the ceiling. You can no longer see your hands in front of your eyes and experience water in a new dimension.
A great experience in the atmospheric pool (Photo: AZALEA)
A special resort offer is the Aperiterme Aperitif with sparkling wine and finger food served daily between 5.00-8.00 pm. This is available to both hotel guests and day guests at the Spa. It is taken in a bathrobe in the café and in the resort’s inner courtyard. Feasting in fluffy white has its own special flavour.
Eat with your eyes
The Italian cuisine at the resort more than lives up to its excellent reputation. The culinary journey of indulgence begins with the varied breakfast, which offers many delicacies that not only tantalise the palate but also impress visually. I could quickly get used to the various chocolates and cakes.
Inviting presentation for breakfast (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
It is as well as this attention to detail that strikes me positively, as in many other areas of the resort. Be it the presentation of sweets and fruit at breakfast, the preparation of lunch dishes by a waiter at the table or the artistic decoration of our magnificent dinner. Everywhere I go, I encounter aesthetic and appealing impressions.
Culinary delights too (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The food on offer leaves nothing to be desired. I particularly enjoyed the daily changing homemade pasta and the tartare made from the best dry-aged beef, which is stored in a special cooling and maturing cabinet.
Bravissimo QC Termegarda! My senses got their money’s worth and the golf rounds on the two varied and different courses were great fun.
Pula Golf Resort and Club de Golf Alcanada. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The Early Bird Catches the Worm
The plane takes off on time from Cologne-Bonn airport just before 5:30 a.m. After a smooth flight and a one-hour car journey across the island, I’m sitting on the inviting terrace of the Pula Golf Resort in the east of Majorca just over three and a half hours later.
I enjoy the pleasant temperatures in the morning sun and the hearty breakfast. Freshly fortified, I pick up my electric cart and hired clubs and play my first relaxed round on the adjacent golf course.
#18 in front of clubhouse and driving range. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Vamos a la Playa
With a German club member, I make a short trip to the nearby Los Pinos Beach in Son Servera, whose Bar Playa is known for its delicious fish dishes. Here, we savor freshly caught grilled sole with a glass of crisp white wine.
The view of the turquoise-colored Mediterranean Sea is just as magnificent as the laid-back ambiance. The aroma of freshly roasted garlic pervades the bar, which is popular with locals and foreigners alike, and whose attentive and friendly staff exude pure joie de vivre.
Perfect lunch on a beautiful beach. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Spanish, English, and German are spoken. A number of our compatriots have purchased property in this charming and peaceful area of the island and opted for membership at Pula Golf.
The resort, owned by the Sala family, is the ideal base for exploring the golf courses in the east and north of the island. Their son, Arnau, runs it with great passion as General Manager. Ten of the 31 rooms are located in the Majorcan-style manor house dating back to 1561, in front of which is the putting green. The stylish building and its small chapel are also used for wedding celebrations.
Stylish manor house and chapel from the 16th century. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
The remaining accommodation units are divided between superior and deluxe apartments, which are located opposite the manor house at ground level and surrounded by magnificent nature, which is where I stay. It is modern and functionally furnished and is situated right next to one of Majorca’s typical windmills. Green fees are free for guests of some room types.
Apartements surrounded by natural vegetation. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
A total of 24 golf courses are spread across the island. With the Golf East Mallorca packages, you can play Pula Golf and the nearby courses at the Club de Golf de Son Servera and Capdepera Golf at discounted rates. A round on the course of Club de Golf Alcanada, which has been recognized as the number one on the island many times over and enjoys an excellent international reputation, is also possible.
Location, Location, Location
Less than an hour from Son Servera, Majorca’s top club is located in the far north of the island with a fantastic view of the bay of Alcudia. On the small offshore island that gave the club its name, there is a lighthouse dating back to 1861, which was manually operated until 1960 when automation took over. As a tribute to this historic lighthouse, the Club de Golf Alcanada incorporated it into their logo.
Always the sea in view. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Opened in 2003, its owner, Hans-Peter Porsche, recruited Robert Trent Jones Jr. to design the course. The par 72 course is 6,559 meters long from the back tees and offers views of the sea from 17 holes; the only course on Majorca that lies directly on the coast.
The layout of the course is varied. Most of the holes lead uphill and downhill, sometimes through valleys and ravines. The course is surrounded by a dense tree population including pine and olive trees as well as holm oaks that flank the fairways.
Old trees surround the fairways. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
I particularly enjoy the tee shots from the elevated tees into the steeply sloping fairways, while the bunkers placed in the center of the fairways, typical of RTJ Jr., are also one of the standout characteristics of the course.
The challenging course requires a strategic game. The first five holes are particularly tough, with mental strength required on the holes where ravines (barrancas) have to be overcome.
Not forgetting the firm and fast greens, which have a stimpmeter of 11.0 on our round, meaning that two putts is a great result! The minimum HCP of 33 for men and 35 for women is fully justified.
The condition of the tee boxes, fairways, and greens, including the clubhouse and various practice facilities, is immaculate. This also includes the Toptracer driving range, which was the first of its kind on Majorca. In particular, the perfect conditioning of the bunkers with their precisely cut edges and finely raked sand is also striking, thanks to more than 20 greenkeepers. Too beautiful to play in.
Too beautiful to play in. (Photo: AZALEA)
Host of the Rolex Challenge Tour Finals Supported by The R&A
The club, a founding member of the Leading Courses of Spain, is delighted to be hosting the final tournament of the Road to Mallorca tournament series in 2024 for the fourth time since 2019. At the end of October 2024, the 45 top-ranked players will compete for one of the 20 tour cards that entitle them to participate in the DP World Tour the following season.
German Golf Director Kristoff Both can think of no better way to promote the club than through the repeated live TV broadcasts on the four tournament days.
The club has also attracted attention in the past with the Spanish Senior Championship and one of the most recognized men’s amateur tournaments in the world, the International Spanish Amateur Men’s Championship Copa S.M. El Rey, held here for the second time in 2024.
We pass the attractive halfway house, the Lighthouse Bar, after #9 and a second time after #15, offering refreshing hot and cold drinks and tasty snacks.
The club has been using recycled wastewater from the neighboring hotels in Alcudia to irrigate the course since 1990. Indeed, the club has been regularly awarded the annual Q Calidad Turistica seal for quality, service, and the environment since 2010. Tetra Bricks have been used instead of plastic bottles since 2019, and water stations at various points on the course ensure you can refill your own drinking bottles during your round.
Everything at the Highest Level
After a challenging round of golf, a great lunch awaits us on the clubhouse terrace in a fantastic location. Soaking in the marvelous view over the bay, I particularly enjoy the excellent Pulpo a la Brasa and the spicy Gambas al Ajillo from the numerous excellent tapas on offer.
The aesthetics found throughout the club grounds are unrivaled. Eye-catchers include the starter’s house and the iconic clock from the American watch manufacturer VERDIN. This includes, for me, the colorfully designed pro shop, which is located together with the restaurant in a Majorcan-style building dating back to the 17th century.
Inviting starter house and pro shop. (Photo: Azalea)
More Than a Golf Course
Back at the Pula Golf Resort, I see for myself to what extent the aforementioned slogan is true. The small outdoor pool is just as inviting as the fully equipped Gym & Spa with indoor pool, sauna, and state-of-the-art training equipment, which is complimentary for hotel guests. I don’t make use of the resort’s own physiotherapist or the various beauty treatments on offer.
Completely relaxed, I look forward to dinner in the S’Era de Pula restaurant, as the resort also knows how to impress with its cuisine. After an aperitivo at the bar, it’s not easy to choose from the Mediterranean cuisine with local produce from the 6,000 square meter fruit, vegetable, and herb garden where organic cultivation is a top priority.
Restaurant in typical local style. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Sustainability plays an important role at the resort, where a circular economy is practiced. The resort is the first ‘Competitive Regenerative Hotel’ in the whole of Spain to have its own golf course. Measures include the avoidance and reduction of plastic, including the refilling of drinking bottles with still and sparkling water throughout the property, the use of solar energy, and the use of recycled water on the golf course.
Sustainability on the golf course. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
European Tour Course
Pula Golf has existed since 1995 and owes its original design to Francisco Segalés. The course was redesigned between 2004 and 2006 by two-time Masters champion and 23-time winner on the European Tour José María Olázabal. Oli transformed it into a 6,297 meter long, par 72, championship course from the back tees.
His last Tour victory on this course dates back to 2005, when he won the Mallorca Classic, which took place here between 2003-2007. The current layout has been in place since 2010, when some final adjustments were made. This was followed by the 2013-2017 Olazábal & Nadal Invitational, a Pro-Am tournament in favor of the Rafa Nadal and Sport Mundi Foundation.
Photos of former champions adorn the clubhouse. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
I agree with the owner’s description of the course in the Birdie Book as ‘Challenging but fair’ and ‘Tough Par, Easy Bogey’.
The course is divided into three distinct areas that can be reached through tunnels that pass under roads. Each hole has its own character.
Most of the holes lead uphill and downhill through open terrain. The course is characterized by several elevated tee boxes, greens that can be played blind, numerous bunkers, and two lakes with watercourses. The fairways offer plenty of approach shots, while there is no rough worth mentioning. Fairways, greens, and bunkers are in well-kept condition, with only the tee boxes needing some room for improvement. Overall, the course is fun to play.
Constantly uphill #10 and downhill #16. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Pula Golf was the first course on Majorca and the second in Spain to be equipped with a Trackman driving range. This is double-decked and is located between #1 and #18 right next to the clubhouse.
Two-level tees. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
I enjoyed my golf trip to the Germans’ favorite island and can highly recommend this perfectly run resort with its great service and attentive staff.
On the way to the airport, I pass Manacor, the third largest town in Majorca. It is particularly famous for its industrial pearl production. Another attraction is the impressive training center of tennis’s great Rafael Nadal.
Sports enthusiasts should visit this center and the adjoining Rafa Nadal Museum Xperience. It offers numerous interactive opportunities to practice different sports and provides an overview of the champion’s greatest successes.
Majorca’s most famous sportsman. (Photo: Juergen Linnenbuerger)
Rafa is a passionate golfer with a HCP in the low +range. However, his extraordinary swing is probably not on any golf pro’s training program.
Marcos Alonso at the Pula Golf Resort in Mallorca. (Photo: Pula Golf Resort)
Some of the biggest names in sport and entertainment came together against ALS and multiple sclerosis in the latest edition of the ‘Battle of the Stars’ last week.
‘Battle of Stars’ in Mallorca’s Pula Golf Resort
The three-day event, which was once again staged at Mallorca’s Pula Golf Resort and Son Servera Golf Club, was won by former FC Barcelona football director and RCD Mallorca president Matheu Alemany – but victory was secondary to the money raised for both causes.
Football icons including Gabriel Batistuta, John Arne Riise, Marcos Alonso, Alain Boghossain, Uli Stielike and more teed off across two days of spirited competition, with many contestants returning from years past.
Fittingly for a Spanish event, a strong contingent of LaLiga EA Sports legends was in attendance, including Miguel Ángel Nadal, Bernd Schuster, Albert Riera, Manu Trigueros and former Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina, while prolific ex-striker Julio Salinas came in second place. Former AC Milan stars Mauro Tassotti, Roberto Donadoni and Stefano Nava flew the flag for Italy.
Away from the sporting world, stars including defending champion and musician David Otero, bullfighter Pepín Liria and actress Verónica Mengod stepped up to the tee – as did Danish businessman Flemming
Østergaard, former chairman of the company that owns FC Copenhagen.
While the golf provided endless entertainment, the Battle of Stars’ true purpose was never far from the spotlight. This year, the event was in support of the fight against two conditions that affect millions of
people worldwide: ALS – which stands for Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – and multiple sclerosis.
One special guest was former footballer and manager – and FC Sevilla legend – Juan Carlos Unzué, who announced in June 2020 that he had been diagnosed with ALS. Speaking at the event, Carlos Unzué
highlighted the power of sport and its stars as a voice to raise awareness in the battle against both diseases.
“All public demonstrations can help if they make you think,” said Carlos Unzué. “When we look in the mirror, we cannot deceive ourselves. If we have a clear conscience, we will be happy with ourselves.”
“I have always believed in people, but now I am experiencing it on a very high level. It’s a great capacity that people have to adapt and overcome very complicated situations.”
Raising money and awareness in the fight against ALS and multiple sclerosis
It wasn’t just famous faces enjoying the two championship courses, with a visit from the users of the Sa Riera Occupational Centre, a mental health centre in Palma, on Thursday. The users took part in a clinic by Pula Golf Academy and took photos with the participating stars, also showing their support by delivering products they had built in the centre’s workshops for people with ALS and multiple sclerosis.
On Friday, a number of people with ALS visited Son Servera to watch the action unfold.
Arnau Sala, general manager at Pula Golf Resort, said: “Developing the Battle of Stars is something we are extremely proud of at Pula and hosting the event alongside Son Servera is always one of the
highlights of our year.
“Of course, thanks must go to the stars, but also to the teams at both venues and everyone who supported the event and made it such a success.
“It’s important not to forget that we are doing this to raise money and awareness in the fight against ALS and multiple sclerosis, in the hope that we can help make a difference that will one day change
millions of lives.”
Sponsorship was provided by tournament Mallorca’s Cap Vermell Grand Hotel, Banco Santander, the Fundació Mallorca Turisme and estate agent Inmobiliaria Sa Coma.
Before the Battle of Stars brought global celebrities to Pula Golf Resort, it was a happy hunting ground for some of the world’s finest golfers. The José María Olazábal-designed course is a seven-time host on the DP World Tour and has been graced by the likes of Henrik Stenson, Sergio García and Paul McGinley. The resort also boasts 31 rooms and suites for guests, extensive practice facilities and the rustic S’Era de Pula restaurant.
