Extremadura, a landlocked region in western Spain, is quietly gaining attention among golfers for its quality courses set against a backdrop of lush dehesas and rugged landscapes. With a climate that supports year-round play, featuring warm summers and mild winters, the region blends challenging layouts with the allure of its natural surroundings. From championship courses that test skill to those popular with visitors for their accessibility, Extremadura provides a welcoming golfing experience. The region’s rich history, from Roman ruins in Mérida to medieval Cáceres, adds cultural depth for players seeking more than just a round.
Championship courses
- Among the standout championship courses is Talayuela Golf, located in Cáceres province. Designed by Severiano Ballesteros and opened in 2005, this 18-hole, par-72 public course spans 6,495 metres across a dehesa of oaks and holm oaks. Its large greens, water hazards, and views of the Sierra de Gredos create a challenging yet scenic round for players of all levels.
- Norba Club de Golf, situated in Cáceres city, is another key venue. Designed by Daniel Calero and José María Cañizares in 1993, this 18-hole, par-72 course features a technical layout with rolling fairways and well-placed bunkers, offering a test of strategy amidst urban convenience.
- Golf Isla de Valdecañas, also in Cáceres, is an 18-hole, par-72 course set on a private island in the Valdecañas reservoir. Its undulating greens and natural integration with the surrounding water and forests make it a favourite for those seeking a high-calibre game.
Mid-range and regional
- For visitors seeking more approachable courses, Golf Guadiana in Badajoz is a popular choice. This 18-hole, par-72 course, located just 8km from the city centre, balances accessibility with strategic elements like water hazards and tree-lined fairways, making it ideal for holiday golfers.
- Don Tello Golf Club, near Mérida, offers a 9-hole, par-36 layout set in a dehesa along the Guadiana River. Its open design and wildlife, including ducks, create a relaxed yet engaging experience for players of all abilities.
- Campo Municipal Galisteo Golf, in Cáceres, is a 9-hole, par-36 course that appeals to casual players with its straightforward layout and scenic countryside views.
- Parraluz Golf, also in Cáceres, is a 9-hole, par-35 course known for its forgiving fairways and natural setting, perfect for beginners and families.
Extremadura’s golf facilities extend beyond the fairways, with most clubs offering driving ranges, putting greens, and practice areas. Talayuela Golf boasts a 5.
5-hectare practice zone for 30 players, while Norba Club de Golf provides a pro shop, two putting greens, and additional amenities like tennis courts and a gymnasium. Dining options at clubhouses feature regional dishes such as migas and Ribera del Guadiana wines, adding local flavour. Golf schools at Guadiana and Talayuela cater to all ages, with lessons for skill improvement. The region is accessible via Badajoz and Cáceres, with connections through Madrid’s airport or high-speed trains to Mérida. Hotels like the Hospes Palacio de Arenales in Cáceres or the Hotel ILUNION Mérida Palace offer golf-friendly stays, some with packages including green fees. With championship courses like Talayuela and Norba, alongside visitor-friendly options like Guadiana and Don Tello, Extremadura delivers a golfing experience that combines quality play with natural and cultural appeal.
Spain region by region
Almería – Andalusia – Aragón – Asturias – Basque Country – Cádiz – Cantabria – Catalonia – Córdoba – Extremadura – Fuerteventura – Galicia – Gran Canaria – Granada – Huelva – Ibiza – Jaén – La Mancha – La Rioja – Lanzarote – León – Madrid – Majorca – Málaga – Menorca – Murcia – Navarra – Seville – Tenerife – Valencia –
