Girona, Spain

Golf Course Rankings & Reviews: Girona, Catalonia

Top 7 Public/Semi-Private Courses

Girona, nestled in the heart of Catalonia, offers a diverse golfing landscape, blending stunning natural beauty with well-maintained courses steeped in local tradition. Here's a curated selection of the region's finest, highlighting their unique characteristics:

1. Golf Club Girona (GC Girona): The Regional Champion

• Signature Holes: The 17th hole (par 4, 355m) is a memorable risk-reward challenge, requiring a precise carry over a ravine. The 12th (par 3, 155m) features a dramatic approach with views of the surrounding forest.
• Design Notes: Designed by Dave Thomas, GC Girona is known for its undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and challenging greens. It’s a classic links-style layout adapted to the Catalan landscape.
• Local Culture: GC Girona is a popular venue for local tournaments and events, fostering a strong sense of community. It’s a course where you’ll see a mix of seasoned players and families enjoying a round together.
• Terrain Adaptations: The course cleverly utilizes the natural terrain of the surrounding pine forests and rolling hills, creating a visually appealing and strategically demanding layout.
• Green Fee: €45-€65 (approx. $48-$70 USD)
• Website: https://gcgirona.com/

2. Golf Club Santa Eulàlia: A Coastal Gem

• Signature Holes: The 4th hole (par 4, 310m) plays along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The 18th (par 5, 410m) is a long, challenging finish.
• Design Notes: This course boasts a more traditional, parkland design with well-defined fairways and challenging bunkers.
• Local Culture: Santa Eulàlia is a favorite among local golfers seeking a scenic and challenging round. It’s a popular spot for weekend outings and club competitions.
• Terrain Adaptations: The course incorporates natural dunes and coastal vegetation, adding to its unique character.
• Green Fee: €55-€75 (approx. $58-$79 USD)
• Website: https://www.golfsantaeulalia.com/

3. Club de Golf Les Costa: A Hidden Treasure

• Signature Holes: The 15th hole (par 3, 130m) is a picturesque hole nestled amongst pine trees, demanding accuracy. The 16th (par 4, 320m) offers a strategic approach with a challenging green.
• Design Notes: A more intimate course, Les Costa is characterized by its tree-lined fairways and undulating greens.
• Local Culture: Les Costa is a well-regarded club with a strong local following. It’s known for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming members.
• Terrain Adaptations: The course is beautifully integrated into the surrounding forest, creating a secluded and tranquil golfing experience.
• Green Fee: €40-€60 (approx. $43-$64 USD)
• Website: https://www.golflescosta.com/

4. Golf Club Empordà: A Coastal Challenge

• Signature Holes: The 12th hole (par 4, 300m) is a demanding hole with a blind tee shot over a ravine. The 18th (par 4, 340m) offers a thrilling finish with a challenging approach.
• Design Notes: A challenging coastal course with strategic bunkering and undulating fairways.
• Local Culture: Empordà is a popular choice for both locals and tourists seeking a challenging coastal round.
• Terrain Adaptations: The course takes full advantage of its coastal location, with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
• Green Fee: €50-€70 (approx. $54-$74 USD)
• Website: https://www.golfclubemporda.com/

5. Golf de Pals: A Historic Setting

• Signature Holes: The 9th hole (par 4, 280m) plays alongside the medieval village of Pals, offering a unique backdrop. The 18th (par 5, 420m) is a long, scenic finish.
• Design Notes: A classic parkland course with strategically placed bunkers and challenging greens.
• Local Culture: Golf de Pals is a popular destination for tourists seeking a golfing experience with a historical flavor.
• Terrain Adaptations: The course is beautifully integrated into the surrounding landscape, with views of the Pyrenees Mountains in the distance.
• Green Fee: €60-€80 (approx. $64-$84 USD)
• Website: https://www.golfdepals.com/

6. Golf Club Cambrils: A Coastal Retreat

• Signature Holes: The 16th hole (par 4, 260m) offers stunning views of the Cambrils coastline. The 18th (par 4, 330m) is a challenging finish with a strategic approach.
• Design Notes: A coastal course with undulating fairways and challenging greens.
• Local Culture: Cambrils is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a relaxed and enjoyable golfing experience.
• Terrain Adaptations: The course is beautifully integrated into the coastal landscape, with views of the Mediterranean Sea.
• Green Fee: €55-€75 (approx. $58-$79 USD)
• Website: https://www.golfcambrils.com/

7. Golf Club L'Ametlla de Mar: A Coastal Escape

• Signature Holes: The 10th hole (par 3, 120m) is a picturesque hole with views of the Mediterranean Sea. The 18th (par 4, 310m) offers a challenging finish.
• Design Notes: A coastal course with undulating fairways and challenging greens.
• Local Culture: L'Ametlla de Mar is a charming coastal town, and the golf club offers a relaxed and enjoyable golfing experience.
• Terrain Adaptations: The course is beautifully integrated into the coastal landscape, with views of the Mediterranean Sea.
• Green Fee: €45-€65 (approx. $48-$70 USD)
• Website: https://www.golflametlla.com/

Hidden Gems

• Can Roig Golf: A 9-hole course with a charming, traditional feel. It's a great option for a shorter round and offers excellent value. (Green Fee: €25-€40)
• Golf Club Castell de l'Ametlla: A scenic 9-hole course with stunning views of the coastline. It's a popular choice among locals seeking a relaxed and affordable round. (Green Fee: €30-€50)

Premium Options

• Hotel Golf Sa Riera: A luxurious resort with a championship 18-hole course. (Green Fee: €90-€120)
• Golf Club Empordà: Known for its excellent facilities and challenging layout. (Green Fee: €70-€90)

Value Champions

• Golf Club Girona: Offers excellent value for money, especially for groups.
• Can Roig Golf: The most budget-friendly option in the region.

International Golfer Essentials

Difficulty & Standards

• Local vs. International Handicap Ratings: Spain uses the same handicap system as the USGA and R&A. Handicaps are generally well-maintained and readily available. You can find handicap information on the official websites of the courses or through the Spanish Golf Federation (Real Federación Española de Golf - RFEG).
• USGA/R&A Slope Comparisons: Slope ratings are generally comparable to those in the US and UK, reflecting the similar design philosophies.

Language Considerations

• English Proficiency: English is spoken by many staff members at the more popular courses, especially those catering to international tourists. However, learning a few basic Spanish phrases is always appreciated.
• Key Golf Terms in Spanish:
• Tee: Tee (same as English)
• Fairway: Campo de juego
• Rough: Bajo
• Green: Verde
• Putter: Putter
• Divot: Divé
• Bogey: Bogey
• Birdie: Birdie
• Eagle: Águila
• Communication Tips: Don't be afraid to ask for help! A friendly "Perdone, ¿habla inglés?" (Excuse me, do you speak English?) goes a long way.

Cultural Golf Etiquette

• Local Customs: Punctuality is appreciated. It's customary to greet fellow golfers with a handshake.
• Dress Codes: Smart casual attire is generally acceptable. Avoid overly casual clothing like t-shirts and shorts (except at more casual courses). Golf shoes are required.
• Pace of Play: Maintaining a reasonable pace of play is expected. Be ready to play when it's your turn.
• Tipping Practices: Tipping is not customary in Spain. However, it's appreciated to leave a small tip (around 5-10%) for caddies if you use one.
• Cultural Context: Golf is often seen as a social activity in Spain. Enjoy the camaraderie and conversation with your playing partners.

Booking Requirements

• Advance Reservation Systems: Most courses recommend booking tee times in advance, especially during peak season. Online booking systems are readily available on the courses' websites.
• Documentation Needs: A valid passport is required for international visitors. Some courses may require proof of insurance.
• Guest Policies: Most courses allow guests to play, but it's always best to check with the course in advance.

Seasonal & Climate Intelligence

Monthly Playing Guide

Terrain Adaptations:

The terrain is generally undulating, with rolling hills and some coastal areas. The fairways are well-maintained, but the greens can be challenging.

This information should provide a good starting point for planning a golf trip to Catalonia. Enjoy your round!