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Nestled in the sun-soaked hills of Murcia, Spain, the championship golf courses at La Manga Club offer a world-class experience for golfers seeking both challenge and charm. This prestigious resort is home to three distinctive 18-hole layouts — South, North, and West — each delivering a unique flavour of play against the backdrop of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re an experienced player or a keen enthusiast, these courses promise an unforgettable blend of technical precision, natural beauty, and sporting excellence.
South Course: The Crown Jewel
The South Course is La Manga Club’s flagship layout, originally designed by Robert Dean Putman and later refined by none other than Arnold Palmer. Stretching over 6,499 metres (7,107 yards) and playing to a par of 73, it’s famed for its expansive, palm-lined fairways, cunningly positioned bunkers, and tricky water hazards.
The front nine are particularly demanding, with two par-3 holes clocking in at over 215 yards and several par-4s that call for both distance and precision. It’s little wonder this course has hosted top-tier events like the Spanish Opens and PGA Championships. It’s not just a round of golf—it’s a piece of golfing history.
North Course: Strategy Over Strength
Also designed by Robert Dean Putman, the North Course offers something completely different. Slightly shorter at 5,755 metres (6,293 yards) with a par of 71, this course trades brute strength for finesse. Tight fairways, generous greens, and a gently rolling landscape make accuracy the name of the game.
The presence of natural elements like palm trees, lakes, and barrancas (those rugged natural gullies) adds complexity without sacrificing charm. With greens built to USGA standards, it’s a clever, characterful course perfect for players who favour a more tactical approach.
West Course: A Hidden Gem in the Pines
The West Course, designed by Dave Thomas and opened in 1992, is perhaps the most scenic and technically demanding of the trio. Set among dense pine forests and undulating terrain, it spans 5,714 metres (6,248 yards) with a par of 72. The views alone — rolling hills meeting the sparkling Mediterranean — make this course unforgettable.
But it’s not just a pretty face. With narrow fairways, frequent elevation changes, and well-placed gullies, the West Course demands careful club selection and pinpoint shot-making. For seasoned golfers, it’s an invigorating challenge that rewards thoughtful play.
More Than Just Golf: A Full Sporting Resort
La Manga Club isn’t just about the courses, it’s about the complete experience. The resort boasts a cutting-edge Golf Practice Centre and the renowned Leadbetter Golf Academy, where players can hone their skills with expert coaching and top-notch facilities.
Accommodation options range from the elegant Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa to spacious private villas and townhouses, giving guests a tailor-made stay. And if you’re travelling with family or fancy branching out, there’s plenty to do: 28 tennis courts, eight football pitches, a luxurious spa, and a tempting mix of bars and restaurants.
Where to Eat and Drink: Post-Round Pleasures
Golfing at La Manga Club is as much about relaxing off the green as it is about performance on it. The dining options here are diverse, each with its own style and flavour:
- 37 Spikes & Sports Bar: Located in the Golf Clubhouse, this offers a lively spot for post-golfing refreshment. Whether it’s salads, sandwiches, snacks, a gourmet burger inspired by the courses, or a cold beer after 18 holes, 37 Spikes & Sports Bar hits the spot.
- La Cascada: Perfect for a peaceful post-round pause, La Cascada sits next to the adults-only pool at the Grand Hyatt. Sip champagne or a cocktail while enjoying a light, refined menu in a tranquil setting.
- Sol y Sombra: Located by the main swimming pool, this laid-back venue is ideal for families and casual diners. It’s the go-to for Mediterranean lunches, light bites, and cool drinks during the warmer months.
A Mediterranean Golfing Legacy
Whether you’re drawn by the prestige of championship-level play, the allure of breathtaking Mediterranean vistas, or the complete luxury resort experience, the championship golf courses at La Manga Club deliver on every front. With three expertly designed courses, state-of-the-art training facilities, and an exceptional array of leisure amenities, La Manga Club stands out as a top-tier golfing destination in Europe.
It’s more than just a place to play; it’s where passion for the game meets lifestyle, elegance, and unforgettable moments. For those seeking the ultimate golfing escape, La Manga Club is nothing short of iconic.
Location: 30389 Cartagena, Murcia, Spain
