The 12th Hole at Son Gual Golf. (Source: Son Gual Golf)
Son Gual Golf is located in Palma de Mallorca, in the Balearic Islands of Spain. This golf course is recognized for its layout and maintenance, making it one of the top golfing destinations on the island. Designed as a modern championship course, Son Gual caters to all types of players, providing a comprehensive golfing experience.
Play One of the Best Holes in Spain
One of the notable features of Son Gual Golf is its 18th hole, which is widely regarded as one of the best par 5s in Spain. This final hole presents a challenging 532-yard finish, requiring players to navigate water hazards twice before reaching the green. The course also encourages players to enjoy a round late in the afternoon, followed by a relaxing time at the clubhouse terrace, where stunning sunsets can be appreciated.
Son Gual Golf offers promotional specials on notable days of the year. For instance, on Valentine’s Day, February 14th, and Santa Claus Day, December 6th, the course provides a 2-for-1 golf special. This promotion makes it an attractive option for golfers looking to celebrate these occasions with a round of golf.
In summary, Son Gual Golf stands out for its strategic layout, well-maintained grounds, and unique features such as the dramatic 18th hole. Its location in Palma de Mallorca and special offers on Valentine’s Day and Santa Claus Day provide added attractions for golf enthusiasts.
Campo de Golf Parador El Saler on the coast of Valencia. (Source: Campo de Golf Parador El Saler)
Campo de Golf Parador El Saler is located in El Saler, Valencia, Spain. This golf course is situated within a natural park beside the sea, providing a unique setting for both amateur and professional golfers to enjoy. The location takes advantage of the natural dune system, integrating the terrain into the design of its holes.
Campo de Golf Parador El Saler combines Links Golf and Mediterranean Flair
The golf course features a combination of links-type holes near the sea and those surrounded by Mediterranean pine forest. This diverse layout has made Campo de Golf Parador El Saler a popular location for numerous international tournaments. It is essential for players to navigate the fairway effectively, as navigating the rough is known to be challenging.
Guests staying at the Hotel Parador El Saler benefit from a 50% discount on green fees, making it an attractive option for those looking to combine accommodations with golfing activities. This incentive, alongside the course’s integration with the natural landscape, adds to the appeal for visiting golfers.
Cihelny Golf & Wellness Resort: Designed by a legend. (Source: Cihelny Golf & Wellness Resort)
The Cihelny Golf & Wellness Resort, located in Bečov nad Teplou in the Carlsbad Region of the Czech Republic, is an attractive destination for golf enthusiasts. This golf resort is situated just 7 kilometers away from Karlovy Vary, a well-known spa town. The resort offers a golf course designed by the Gary Player Design Company, showcasing unique features that set it apart as an exceptional course in western Bohemia.
Golf and Relax at the Cihelny Golf & Wellness Resort
At the Cihelny Golf & Wellness Resort, visitors can look forward to more than just a round of golf. The resort is home to a four-star wellness hotel, providing comfortable accommodation and a variety of amenities. These include a restaurant that serves a diverse menu, a swimming pool for relaxation, a saunaland for rejuvenation, and various massage treatments. These facilities aim to enhance the overall experience of guests, ensuring they can relax and enjoy their stay both on and off the course.
Another significant feature of the Cihelny Golf & Wellness Resort is its commitment to customer loyalty. The resort offers a 50% discount for tee times after 1 PM, as well as a loyalty program for its members. This initiative reflects the resort’s dedication to providing value and fostering a community of returning guests who appreciate the serene environment and high-quality facilities.
Situated amidst the beauty of nature and forests, the Cihelny Golf & Wellness Resort presents an inviting escape for those seeking a blend of recreation and relaxation. The proximity to Karlovy Vary allows guests to easily explore the nearby spa town, adding another layer of appeal to their visit. The thoughtful design of the golf course and the range of wellness services make the resort a comprehensive destination that caters to the needs of all who love golf and relaxation.
Pinheiros Altos at the Algarve. (Source: instagram @alanshearer)
Pinheiros Altos lies in Almancil, in the Algarve region of Portugal. This prestigious golf course offers a unique and challenging experience set against the backdrop of one of Europe’s most renowned golfing destinations.
Special Challenge: The Island Green at Pinheiros Altos
The course design is notable, integrating the natural landscape to create diverse playing conditions that cater to all player types. Keeping the ball on the fairway is essential here, given the course’s strategic layout. One key feature of Pinheiros Altos is its par 3 island green, which presents a particular challenge and sets this course apart from others.
Pinheiros Altos extends several attractive offerings during the summer, making it accessible to a wider range of golfers. These include specials with a buggy, early bird discounts, twilight rounds, and special packs in collaboration with the nearby San Lorenzo golf course. Such packages provide added value and opportunities for extended play under different conditions.
The club atmosphere at Pinheiros Altos is appreciated by both members and visitors alike. The environment is conducive to enjoyment and relaxation, creating a welcoming space for all who visit. Although tailored for its members, the atmosphere makes it a popular choice for visiting golfers seeking a memorable playing experience.
In summary, Pinheiros Altos combines a well-thought-out course design with a hospitable club atmosphere, making it a favored destination in the Algarve. The strategic demands of the course, along with its unique features and seasonal offers, cater to a broad audience of golf enthusiasts.
San Lorenzo Golf Course. (Source: instagram @clarkcaseygolfs)
San Lorenzo Golf Course is located in Almancil, Portugal, within the region of Algarve. The golf course is uniquely situated in the Ria Formosa Reserve, offering scenic views over the ocean. San Lorenzo is noted for its design and is recognized as one of the best courses in Portugal and even Europe. It caters to all types of players, making it a versatile destination for golf enthusiasts.
Scenic Ocean Views at San Lorenzo Golf Course
San Lorenzo Golf Course offers various holes with signature characteristics. Notably, the 6th and 7th holes provide scenic views over the ocean, enhancing the play experience. The 18th hole is designed around two natural lakes, making it both challenging and engaging. The course’s design leverages its location within a protected natural reserve, contributing to the abundant natural life surrounding the course. This aspect enhances the overall atmosphere and provides a unique playing environment.
The course is mainly accessible through the Dona Filipa Hotel, offering several packages and summer deals where a buggy may be included. This provides convenient options for players looking to experience San Lorenzo. The hotel’s association with the golf course ensures that visitors have access to well-curated golf experiences tailored to different preferences.
In summary, San Lorenzo Golf Course in Almancil, Algarve is recognized for its exceptional design and unique location within the Ria Formosa Reserve. The course offers signature holes with ocean views and challenging designs around natural features. Accessibility through the Dona Filipa Hotel with various package options makes it an attractive destination for a range of golfers. The natural reserve setting contributes to the course’s distinct environment, making it a notable location for golf enthusiasts.
The Club de Golf Alcanada in Spain. (Image: Club de Golf Alcanada)
Club de Golf Alcanada, nestled in Alcudia, Islas Baleares, Spain, is a prestigious golf destination with a reputation for hosting significant tournaments. The course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., opened its doors in 2003 and has since become a notable venue for golf enthusiasts.
Club de Golf Alcanada: Challenging Course for Pros and Amateurs
The course is renowned for hosting the Rolex Challenge Tour Grand Final in multiple years, including 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2024. This highlights its status within the professional golf circuit. The course is tailored for experienced golfers, requiring a high level of skill.
Hole 7 on the course, a par 5, is noted for its strategic tee shot and is celebrated for offering a picturesque view over the lighthouse of Alcanada and the bay of Alcudia. Such scenic elements not only enhance the playing experience but also emphasize the course’s unique location and design features.
Club de Golf Alcanada offers a variety of package deals throughout the year. These include early bird specials, twilight deals, combination offers like greenfee and lunch, greenfee and BBQ during the summer months, and even Black Friday specials. Such offerings make it a flexible destination catering to different schedules and preferences, providing value beyond the standard play fees.
The ASD Golf Crema Resort. (Image: Golf Crema Resort)
Located in the picturesque region of Lombardia, Italy, ASD Golf Crema Resort offers a captivating golfing experience. Nestled in Crema, within the province of Cremona, this golf course is notable for its challenging design and beautiful surroundings. The course, known as “Daddy,” is recognized as one of the longest in Italy, catering to both experienced and novice players.
Technical Layout and Long Holes – ASD Golf Crema Resort
The ASD Golf Crema Resort features a technical layout that includes numerous ponds and canals. This requires players to come prepared with extra balls. The course is designed to challenge golfers with its intricate holes, making it a suitable test for seasoned players, while also providing opportunities for beginners through advanced tee-off options. The surrounding Moso Park adds to the unique character of this golf destination, making each round a memorable experience.
Players can take advantage of daily green fee agreements, with rates set at €35 from Monday to Friday on non-holiday days. For those looking to play on holidays, the agreed 18-hole green fee is €60. These pricing options make ASD Golf Crema Resort accessible to a wide range of golf enthusiasts. This structure ensures that golf is available to locals and visitors alike, supporting both recreational and competitive play.
In summary, ASD Golf Crema Resort stands out not only for its length and technicality but also for its setting within the Moso Park. The combination of challenging water hazards and strategic hole layouts provides a comprehensive test for golfers. With accessible green fee pricing, it remains a popular choice for both casual and serious golfers in the region.
The Aroeira Challenge Golf Course. (Image: Aroeira Challenge )
The Aroeira Challenge is a golf course located in Charneca da Caparica, Portugal. Situated within a vast pine forest, this course is recognized for its diverse terrain and the variety it offers compared to its older sibling, the Aroeira Pines Classic.
Aroeira Challange – The Greens are not to mess with
The course design accommodates players of all levels and ages, featuring a range of tee options and five lakes that impact play on ten different holes. A distinctive element of the Aroeira Challenge is its large, undulating greens, which feature several levels. Among its holes, the 17th stands out as one of the most challenging. Measuring 430 meters with a par of four, this hole demands two quality shots to reach the green in regulation. The green itself is protected by a steep slope on the left and two bunkers on the right, emphasizing the need for precision. This makes the 17th hole the signature hole on the course, which was designed by Donald Steel.
Looking ahead, the Aroeira Challenge is slated for significant upgrades in 2025. Planned renovations include extensive work on the bunkers, tees, greens, course landscaping, and the irrigation system. These improvements aim to enhance the playing experience, ensuring that the course remains attractive and challenging for future players.
The combination of challenging holes, diverse terrain, and upcoming upgrades solidifies the Aroeira Challenge’s reputation as a noteworthy destination for golfers. The proactive approach to course maintenance and the commitment to improving player experience underscore its status in the golfing community.
The Aroeira Pines Classic Golf Course in Portugal. (Image: Azalea)
The Aroeira Pines Classic is located in Charneca da Caparica, Portugal, approximately 30 minutes from Lisbon. Situated in a vast pine forest, this golf course is renowned for its picturesque setting. The landscape and layout have often drawn comparisons to the prestigious Wentworth Club in England, earning it the nickname ‘the Wentworth of Lisbon’ among golf specialists.
Updates in Aroeira Pines – New Bunkers, Tees and More are Waiting
The course caters to golfers of all abilities and ages through a variety of tee options. It is known for being relatively flat, which provides an easy and pleasant walking experience for players. One of its standout features is the 14th hole, a par-three spanning 120 meters. This particular hole was not part of the original course but was added during a 1982 renovation. It requires players to execute a precise tee shot over a lake onto a small putting surface, adding a challenging yet rewarding element to the game.
Aroeira Pines Classic is also undergoing significant upgrades from June to October 2024. These renovations include comprehensive improvements to the bunkers, tees, greens, and course landscaping. Additionally, the irrigation system will be enhanced. These changes aim to elevate the playing experience further, ensuring that the course remains one of Lisbon’s premier golfing destinations.
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.
