Consistently ranked as the #1 course in Continental Europe, Valderrama is a masterclass in precision. Known for its “immaculate” conditioning and tiny, lightning-fast greens, it famously hosted the 1997 Ryder Cup. For a stay that matches the prestige of the course, book into the SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort, a high-end lifestyle hotel that offers a chic, “rebel luxury” take on traditional Andalusian style just a few minutes from the first tee.

Widely regarded as Javier Arana’s masterpiece, El Saler sits within a protected nature reserve and combines links-style holes along the Mediterranean with parkland sections through thick pine forests. The best—and only—way to fully experience it is to stay at the Parador de El Saler, a stunning, glass-fronted modern hotel integrated directly into the course, allowing you to walk from your breakfast table to the practice range.

Host of the 2023 Solheim Cup, Finca Cortesín is the gold standard for modern luxury in Spain. The course is demanding and sprawling, with every hole feeling like a private sanctuary. The definitive stay is the on-site Finca Cortesín Hotel Golf & Spa, an award-winning boutique retreat known for its massive suites, three-Michelin-starred dining, and an exclusive beach club.

This clifftop masterpiece near Bilbao is another Javier Arana gem. It offers dramatic views of the Bay of Biscay and a classic, old-world “members club” atmosphere. To match the northern elegance, stay at the Hotel Carlton in Bilbao, a landmark luxury hotel that has hosted royalty and remains the most prestigious address in the city.

A regular winner of “Spain’s Best Golf Course” at the World Golf Awards, Las Colinas is a Cabell B. Robinson design set in a secluded valley surrounded by lemon and orange groves. For a high-end, independent stay, book one of the Las Colinas Residences, which offer modern, luxury villas and apartments with access to a private beach club on the Mediterranean coast.

This was Robert Trent Jones Sr.’s first European design and remains a purist’s favourite. It features wide, rolling fairways and elevated greens, recently restored to their original 1964 glory. You should stay at the Encinar de Sotogrande, a sophisticated and modern hotel that provides a peaceful retreat overlooking the nearby countryside and easy access to the entire Sotogrande golf hub.

Formerly known as PGA Catalunya, this course was built with the express purpose of hosting the Ryder Cup. It is a gruelling, beautiful test of golf through dense oak and pine forests with several daunting water hazards. You must stay on-site at the Hotel Camiral, a member of “The Leading Hotels of the World,” which offers ultra-modern design, a world-class wellness centre, and high-end Catalan gastronomy.

Designed by Greg Norman, El Prat is a 45-hole complex that has hosted the Spanish Open ten times. The “Pink” layout is the most prestigious, winding through beautiful woodland near Barcelona. For a luxurious city-and-golf split, stay at the Hotel Majestic & Spa on the Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona; it offers a legendary “Golden Age” hotel experience and a dedicated concierge to manage your transfers to the club.

The newest of the great Sotogrande courses, La Reserva is carved into a hillside and offers some of the largest greens in Spain. It features a unique “inland beach” club and a very exclusive feel. For a stylish and trendy base, stay at the MIM Sotogrande (by Lionel Messi), a sleek boutique hotel in the marina that is perfect for enjoying the local nightlife after a day on the fairways.

Located in the heart of Marbella’s “Golf Valley,” Las Brisas is famous for its botanical-garden feel, featuring rare plants from all over the world. It is a highly technical course that rewards strategy over power. For the ultimate Marbella experience, stay at the Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, an iconic beachfront property that defines the “Golden Mile” and offers a legendary, refined atmosphere.

For many travellers, the Costa del Sol is the preferred choice for Spain golf holidays because it’s promoted with over 325 days of sunshine per year and more than 70 golf courses. It’s a great fit for golfers who want reliable weather, plus a good selection of tee-time options on a single Spain golf break.

The golf season usually starts around mid February and runs throughout until early July. Between July and August, the temperatures rise and Spain takes a break from golf and resumes again from September until late November when most golfers start to get ready for the Christmas period. Overall, the weather in Spain is generally good all year round, making it the perfect spot for your golf holiday.

With airports in Malaga and Seville in the South, to Madrid in the Centre, to Murcia, Alicante and Almeria in the East coast, it has never been easier to get to Spain for your golf trip. Most UK airports all fly into mainland Spain.

Spain golf holidays are supported by a large tourism ecosystem where golf spending flows into hotels, restaurants, transport and other services, one published study notes that 7 out of every 8 euros generated by golf benefit other sectors. That multiplier effect is a strong reason Spain performs well for Spain golf breaks.

Yes, Spain ended 2024 with 305,603 golf members, up 2.2% year-on-year, marking the sixth consecutive annual increase in participation. For customers booking Spain golf holidays, that growth is a useful signal that the sport (and the supporting infrastructure) remains active and invested in.

Spain is one of the world’s favourite destinations for a golf holiday. Between the world class resorts of Malaga and Marbella, to the tranquil countryside in Murcia and Andalucia, the perfect golf holiday is waiting for you.