A Golfer’s Guide to Costa Brava: The Best Golf Courses and Resorts

A Golfer’s Guide to Costa Brava: The Best Golf Courses and Resorts

Costa Brava, located in the northeastern region of Spain, is renowned for its stunning coastline, picturesque towns, and vibrant culture. However, it is also a haven for golf enthusiasts, offering some of the best golf courses in Europe. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner looking for a new challenge, Costa Brava boasts a wide array of golfing experiences set against beautiful Mediterranean backdrops.

  1. PGA Catalunya Resort

Undoubtedly one of Europe’s most prestigious golf resorts, PGA Catalunya Resort is a must-visit for any golfer heading to Costa Brava. Located just outside the town of Girona, the resort is home to two world-class golf courses: the Stadium Course and the Tour Course.

The Stadium Course is often regarded as one of the best golf courses in Spain. It has hosted the Spanish Open several times. It is known for its challenging layout, with narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards that test even the most experienced players. The Tour Course offers a more relaxed but equally beautiful alternative for those looking for a less demanding round.

Both courses are set in a stunning landscape of rolling hills, pine forests, and tranquil lakes, making them perfect for golfers seeking both a challenge and an escape into nature.

  1. Empordà Golf

Located near the medieval town of Pals, Empordà Golf offers a unique golfing experience with two 18-hole courses: the Links Course and the Forest Course. Both courses are set in the heart of the Empordà region, an area famed for its natural beauty and proximity to the Mediterranean coast.

The Links Course is inspired by traditional British links courses, with wide fairways and strategically placed bunkers. It is a challenging course, with the coastal winds adding an extra layer of difficulty. On the other hand, the Forest Course offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with lush greenery and scenic views of the surrounding hills. Both courses are impeccably maintained and offer various tee options for all skill levels.

The Empordà Golf Resort also has a modern clubhouse, a driving range, and excellent facilities for beginners and experienced golfers.

  1. Golf Platja de Pals

As one of the oldest golf courses in Costa Brava, Golf Platja de Pals holds a special place in the hearts of golfers. Located in the charming town of Pals, this 18-hole course is renowned for its traditional design, combining challenging and accessible holes that appeal to players of all abilities.

What sets Golf Platja de Pals apart is its unique location, right next to the golden sands of Pals Beach. Golfers can enjoy a round with stunning sea views and a refreshing sea breeze that adds an extra dimension to the game. Pine trees border the course and offer a great mix of long, open fairways and narrow, tricky holes that require precision and strategy.

In addition to the fantastic course, the resort features a lovely clubhouse, a pro shop, and an excellent restaurant, making it the ideal spot for a post-round meal and relaxation.

  1. Golf d’Aro – Mas Nou 

Golf d’Aro – Mas Nou is a striking 18-hole golf course set in the hills above the picturesque town of Platja d’Aro. The course offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, making it one of the most scenic golf courses in the region.

Designed by renowned architect Ramon Espinosa, the course features challenging fairways and strategically placed water hazards, ensuring a memorable and rewarding golfing experience. The signature hole is the 7th, where golfers must navigate a water hazard in front of a spectacular backdrop of the surrounding mountains.

Golf d’Aro is part of a larger resort with a spa, restaurant, and tennis courts, offering golfers a full luxury experience. The course is also known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with an excellent staff team to ensure a smooth and enjoyable round.

  1. La Sella Golf

Although located slightly inland, La Sella Golf is well worth a visit for golfers staying in Costa Brava. Located in the town of Denia, about an hour’s drive from the coast, the 27-hole course is set in a beautiful natural environment with views of the Montgó mountain range.

The course is divided into three nine-hole circuits, each offering a unique challenge. The Almadrava Course is known for its technical demands, tight fairways and strategically placed hazards. The Los Lagos Course is set amongst lakes and streams, while the La Sella Course offers a more traditional layout with tree-lined fairways.

In addition to the golf course, La Sella Golf boasts excellent practice facilities, a driving range, and a well-appointed clubhouse with a Mediterranean cuisine restaurant.

  1. Golf de Begur

Located on the Costa Brava’s rugged coastline, Golf de Begur is a smaller, more intimate golf course that offers an enjoyable round with stunning views. This 9-hole course is ideal for golfers looking for a more relaxed and leisurely game, but it still presents challenges with its undulating fairways, tricky greens, and scenic hazards.

The course is situated on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, the village of Begur, and the Mediterranean Sea in the distance. It’s the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy a more intimate golfing experience while still enjoying the breathtaking scenery.