In recent decades, Mallorca has developed into a true paradise for golf enthusiasts. The island not only offers a pleasant Mediterranean climate and breathtaking views of picturesque landscapes and the sea but also an impressive selection of golf courses. Currently, there are a total of 24 golf courses in Mallorca, 21 of which are accessible to green fee players. This diversity creates ideal conditions for players of all levels, making Mallorca an essential destination for every golfer. Additionally, the island attracts international real estate buyers who appreciate the proximity to top-tier golf facilities. The following article covers everything you need to know about golfing in Mallorca.
The Climate: A Paradise for Golfers
One of the main reasons for Mallorca’s popularity among golfers is its year-round mild climate. Summers are warm but often accompanied by a refreshing breeze from the Mediterranean, while winters are mild and pleasant. This allows golfers to swing their clubs at any time of the year. Particularly, the months from March to June and September to November are considered ideal for golf, as temperatures are comfortable and the island is less crowded. A personal tip: Early mornings or late afternoons not only offer pleasant temperatures but also special lighting and views. Watching the sunrise or sunset from a golf course is a true natural spectacle.
The Variety of Golf Courses: Something for Everyone
Mallorca offers a total of 24 golf courses, 21 of which are accessible to green fee players. These courses are spread across the island and provide varied challenges for both beginners and experienced players. The course designs, created by renowned golf architects, often incorporate the island’s beautiful landscapes into their layouts.
One example is the Club de Golf Alcanada in the north of the island. This 18-hole course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., not only offers sporting challenges but also a breathtaking view of the Bay of Alcúdia and the nearby island of Alcanada with its lighthouse. The mix of pine forests, olive groves, and sea breeze creates an unparalleled golfing experience.
For those traveling in the southwest of the island, the Golf de Andratx is a preferred choice, known for its challenging fairways and Spain’s longest par-5 hole. The 609-meter-long hole, also known as “The Green Monster,” poses a challenge even for experienced golfers. The surrounding landscape, with terraced hills and traditional Mallorcan stone walls, adds a special charm to the course.
Also in the southwest is the Real Golf de Bendinat. This course stands out for its location amidst a lush pine forest. The narrow fairways and elevated greens require precise play and strategic thinking. From various points on the course, players can enjoy impressive views of the nearby Bendinat Castle and the Mediterranean Sea.
For golfers seeking a special challenge, Golf Son Gual is a must. This private, family-run 18-hole course spans 156 hectares of Mediterranean landscape and is renowned for its top-notch maintenance and challenging design. Although it is a members’ club, guests are warmly welcomed but should book in advance.
As Mallorca’s oldest golf course, opened in 1964, the Son Vida course is distinguished by its rich history and demanding layout. The 18-hole course is located in the exclusive Son Vida residential area and offers stunning views of the surroundings.
Another highlight is the Golf Son Muntaner, which is also part of the Arabella Golf Mallorca Resort. This course stands out for its exceptional maintenance and innovative design. Particularly noteworthy is Mallorca’s oldest olive tree, “Sa Capitana,” which stands on the course and is over 1,000 years old.
In the northeast of Mallorca, golf enthusiasts will also find a beautiful selection of courses. The Canyamel Golf Club is known for its strategically placed bunkers and immaculate condition. Its proximity to the charming town of Artà ensures a combined experience of sport and culture.
The T Golf Palma Puntiró course, like other courses near Palma, offers optimal access to both golfing opportunities and Mallorca’s cultural highlights. Its strategic location and well-maintained facilities make it a popular choice for visitors.
Planning Your Golf Vacation: Tips for a Successful Trip
Due to the popularity of golf courses in Mallorca, it is advisable to book tee times well in advance. Some of the best courses can be fully booked up to six months in advance. Therefore, careful planning is essential to secure your desired playing times. Another advantage of early booking is the opportunity to benefit from early bird discounts offered by many clubs.
Many resorts and hotels on the island offer special golf packages that combine accommodations and green fees. An outstanding example is the Castillo Hotel Son Vida, a luxurious adults-only hotel located in close proximity to the renowned Golf Son Vida. This historic estate not only offers top-notch accommodations but also direct access to one of the island’s most traditional golf courses. The combination of exquisite lodging, premier golfing opportunities, and proximity to the capital Palma makes the Castillo Hotel Son Vida a particularly attractive choice for golfers.
Another example is the Carrossa Hotel & Spa in the northeast of Mallorca, which is located near several top-tier golf courses and offers attractive golf packages. The combination of luxurious accommodations, wellness offerings, and proximity to premier golf courses makes such resorts particularly appealing to golfers.
The Right Equipment: Traveling Light
Many golfers face the question of whether to bring their own equipment or rent it on-site. Most golf clubs in Mallorca offer high-quality rental clubs and equipment, making it easy to travel light. This is especially practical for short trips or when combining multiple destinations. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to try out different club models and perhaps even discover new favorites.
For golfers living on the island or planning to purchase a property, the extensive availability of top-tier golf equipment is a significant advantage. Numerous pro shops in Mallorca offer an exquisite selection of golf apparel and accessories.
The pro shop at Golf Son Vida, for example, is equipped with a wide range of high-quality golf clothing and equipment to ensure players are well-prepared for their round. Should unexpected clothing issues arise, the shop offers a variety of options to quickly resolve them.
The pro shop at Club de Golf Alcanada, housed in a building over a hundred years old with typical Mallorcan stone walls, offers a stylish selection of golf apparel in a beautiful setting.
Another example is the pro shop at Son Antem Golf, which is open daily and offers a wide range of products, including technical clothing, accessories, and golf equipment. Golf clubs, buggies, and manual or electric trolleys can also be rented here.
For those who prefer to rent equipment, specialized providers like Rent2Play offer comprehensive rental services for golf clubs. This allows golfers to try out different club models and enjoy the game without worrying about transporting their own equipment.
In addition to the pro shops at golf clubs, Mallorca has specialized golf stores like Galaxy Golf, the largest independent golf retailer in Spain. They offer a huge selection of golf clubs, equipment, and apparel from leading global golf brands.
These diverse offerings make it easy for both vacationers and locals, as well as property owners who love golf, to assemble or expand their golf equipment according to their individual needs.
Culinary Delights: More Than Just Golf
A golf vacation in Mallorca offers the perfect opportunity to discover the island’s diverse cuisine. Many golf clubs have excellent restaurants serving local specialties. After a round of golf or as an accompaniment, you can enjoy fresh fish, paella, the famous Sobrasada sausages, or a club sandwich. A glass of Mallorcan wine rounds off the culinary experience.
Some of the island’s most renowned golf clubs are known for their exquisite gastronomic offerings. For example, the Son Quint Restaurant offers Italian cuisine. Particularly popular is the restaurant “La Bodega del Green” at the Sheraton Mallorca Arabella Golf Hotel, which combines fresh regional ingredients with an impressive view of the Son Vida golf course. Golf de Andratx offers Italian-Mediterranean cuisine at the “Campino” restaurant, also with a spectacular view of the golf course.
There are also numerous culinary highlights outside the golf clubs. Palma, and especially Santa Catalina (backlink?), are known for their upscale dining scenes. Mallorca is also renowned for its excellent wines. The wine regions of Binissalem and Pla i Llevant produce some of the best wines in the Balearic Islands. Many bodegas offer wine tastings, which can be ideally combined with a golf vacation. Particularly recommended are wineries like Bodega Ribas, one of the oldest on the island, or José L. Ferrer, which combines a long tradition with innovative winemaking techniques.
Special Events and Tournaments in 2025
In 2025, Mallorca will host numerous high-profile golf tournaments that attract both professionals and amateurs. The Mallorca Senior Open 2025, organized by the Senior Golf Tour Europe, will take place from February 12 to 14, 2025, at the Son Muntaner Golf Course in Palma, providing a platform for experienced golfers to showcase their skills. The Challenge Tour has announced the “Road to Mallorca” for 2025, a series of 29 tournaments in 18 countries, culminating in the prestigious Rolex Challenge Tour Grand Final in Mallorca. This final promises to showcase the best up-and-coming talents in golf. For amateurs, the Mallorca Golf Week on March 7, 2025, at the Son Gual Golf Course offers an excellent opportunity to play in a friendly atmosphere. Also at Son Gual, the Inselradio Golf Trophy on June 7, 2025, is another highlight for golf enthusiasts. A special event is the Peter Wackel Golf Trophy on July 19, 2025, which uniquely combines sport and entertainment, appealing to both golfers and partygoers.
Additionally, Arabella Golf Mallorca will host a variety of exciting tournaments. The season begins on February 1 with the 1st Prueba Liga Social, followed by the 2nd Prueba Liga Social on February 15. A highlight in February is the Trofeo LUX on February 22. From March to November, numerous other tournaments will take place, including the 8th Edición Marathon Arabella Golf Mallorca on June 28, the Torneo COPE on September 6 and 7, and the prestigious Torneo Presidente on November 23. Furthermore, the popular Circuito Amigos de Paco series will be held regularly on Fridays, with tournaments in April, May, June, and July. Another special event is the Torneo Follow the Pros on August 30, where amateur players have the chance to compete with experienced golfers. The festive Torneo Navidad will take place on December 20 to conclude the year. These diverse tournaments offer golfers an excellent opportunity to showcase their skills, compete with other enthusiasts, and enjoy the premier golf courses of Arabella Golf Mallorca. Further information and registration options are available on the official website.
Mallorca has established itself as one of Europe’s leading golf destinations, offering an impressive combination of top-tier golf courses, luxurious resorts, and a unique Mediterranean atmosphere. Whether you’re a passionate golfer or a casual player, the island provides perfect conditions for pursuing your hobby. The variety of courses, from historic venues like Golf Son Vida
