Gran Canaria, an estremely popular destination island in Spain’s Canary archipelago, offers a compelling destination for golfers seeking a blend of challenging courses and scenic beauty. With its mild climate, allowing year-round play, the island has become a favoured spot for those looking to enjoy a round or two amidst stunning landscapes.
The island boasts eight golf courses, each designed by professionals to cater to players of all abilities, from beginners to seasoned golfers. The combination of well-maintained facilities, diverse layouts, and the island’s natural charm makes Gran Canaria a standout choice for golf tourism.
Championship courses
- Among the island’s championship courses, Anfi Tauro Golf stands out for its Arizona-style design, crafted by architects von Hagge, Smelek, and Baril. Spanning over 650,000 square metres, this 18-hole, par-71 course features lush greenery, lakes, and waterfalls, set against a backdrop of volcanic mountains. Its challenging terrain and carefully placed bunkers appeal to players seeking a test of skill.
- Another prominent course, Meloneras Golf, designed by Ron Kirby, offers an 18-hole, par-71 layout with palm-lined fairways and sea views. Its strategic water hazards and bunkers demand precision, making it a favourite for those who enjoy a thoughtful game.
- The Real Club de Golf de Las Palmas, Spain’s oldest golf club, founded in 1891, provides a unique experience with its location near the edge of the Bandama volcanic crater. This 18-hole, par-71 course combines a traditional layout with panoramic views of the sea and ravines, offering a rewarding challenge for players of all levels.
- Salobre Golf & Resort, with its 27 holes now configured as three distinct 9-hole courses, delivers flexibility and variety. Designed by Ron Kirby, the courses feature narrow fairways and scenic desert-like surroundings, providing an engaging experience for golfers.
Mid-range and regional options
- For visitors seeking popular courses, Maspalomas Golf is a top choice. Designed by Mackenzie Ross, this 18-hole, par-73 course lies adjacent to the Maspalomas Dunes Nature Reserve, where mild sea breezes enhance the playing experience. Its forgiving fairways and open layout make it accessible for higher handicappers, while still offering enough challenge to keep experienced players interested.
- Las Palmeras Golf Club, a municipal course, is another well-liked option, featuring an 18-hole, par-3 pitch-and-putt layout. With fairways ranging from 40 to 120 metres, it’s ideal for a quick round or for those honing their short game.
Gran Canaria’s golf facilities extend beyond the courses themselves. Many offer modern clubhouses, practice areas with driving ranges, and professional instruction through academies tailored to improving skills. The island’s hotels cater to golfers with tailored packages, combining accommodation with easy access to courses. Off the fairways, visitors can explore the island’s beaches, cultural sites in Las Palmas, or natural wonders like the Maspalomas Dunes and Caldera de Bandama, ensuring a well-rounded holiday.
The island’s courses are complemented by its infrastructure, with most resorts and courses within a 45-minute drive from the airport. This accessibility, paired with the consistent weather, makes Gran Canaria a practical choice for golf travellers.
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 –
