GOLF for visitors to Spain’s TENERIFE

Tenerife’s Golfing Gems Attract Enthusiasts Year-RoundTenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, offers a compelling destination for golfers seeking a blend of scenic beauty and well-designed courses. With its mild climate, the island welcomes players throughout the year, providing a range of facilities and layouts that cater to both seasoned golfers and newcomers. The island’s unique volcanic landscape, paired with ocean views and lush greenery, creates an appealing backdrop for a golfing holiday. Tenerife’s courses, many designed by renowned architects, combine challenging play with accessible amenities, making it a prime spot for golf tourism.

Championship courses

Among the championship courses, Abama Golf stands out, crafted by Dave Thomas. This 18-hole par-72 course weaves through over 300 species of subtropical plants, with more than 20,000 palm trees lining the fairways. Its layout, incorporating water hazards and undulating greens, offers a test for skilled players while providing stunning views of the Atlantic and the island of La Gomera.
Golf Costa Adeje, designed by Pepe Gancedo, is another prominent venue, featuring a 27-hole setup that integrates the island’s natural contours, including restored stone walls from former banana plantations. The course’s championship credentials are underscored by its history of hosting professional tournaments, with wide fairways and black volcanic sand bunkers adding character.
Buenavista Golf, a Severiano Ballesteros design, sits on cliffs near Teno Country Park, offering a dramatic 18-hole par-72 layout. The course’s proximity to the ocean, with holes hugging the coastline and a waterfall connecting lakes on the ninth and 18th holes, creates a memorable experience.

Mid-range and regional courses

For visitors seeking popular courses, Golf del Sur is a favourite, known for its 27-hole configuration split into North, South, and Links nines, though it now operates as an 18-hole course following recent changes. Designed by Pepe Gancedo and remodelled by Manuel Piñero, its volcanic black sand bunkers and palm-lined fairways draw players of all levels, with a driving range, putting greens, and a bar enhancing the experience.
Golf Las Américas, located near Playa de las Américas, is another well-visited course, designed by John Jacobs. This 18-hole par-72 course, set in a natural amphitheatre, features lakes and ravines, offering a relaxed yet engaging round close to the island’s lively southern resorts.
Amarilla Golf, designed by Donald Steel, provides a coastal challenge with its par-71 layout, where players face a striking par-3 eighth hole that requires a shot over the ocean to reach the green.

Tenerife’s golfing appeal extends beyond the courses themselves. Many resorts, such as The Ritz-Carlton, Abama, and Melia Hacienda del Conde, offer luxurious accommodation alongside easy access to these greens. These venues provide practice facilities, including driving ranges and chipping areas, as well as dining options and spas for relaxation after a round. The island’s compact size ensures golfers can explore multiple courses during a single trip, with most located in the sunnier southwest, where the weather remains conducive to play even in winter. Additional attractions, such as Mount Teide and nearby beaches, complement the golfing experience, encouraging visitors to combine sport with leisure.

For those planning a golfing getaway, Tenerife’s infrastructure supports seamless travel. Hotels like Hotel Tenerife Golf & Sea View, near Golf del Sur, offer convenient access to courses, with amenities like car hire and tourism desks to explore the island further. Green fees vary, with options like Golf del Sur offering affordable rates, while courses like Abama provide a premium experience. The island’s courses cater to a range of handicaps, ensuring accessibility for all. Tenerife’s blend of championship and popular courses, paired with its welcoming climate and facilities, makes it a standout choice for golf enthusiasts.