The history of golf in Spain and Murcia’s role
Golf in Spain has undergone a fascinating evolution. What once began as a sport limited to a few select circles has grown into an open, dynamic activity with strong international appeal. In this article, we explore how golf has developed in Spain and highlight three standout courses in the Region of Murcia: Hacienda del Álamo Golf, Mar Menor Golf, and Saurines de la Torre.
The origins of golf in Spain
Golf first arrived in Spain in the late 19th century, brought by the British community living along the coast. The San Sebastián Golf Club (1891) and the Barcelona Golf Club (1911) were among the first to introduce the sport in the country. Over time, golf gradually took root, gaining popularity among Spanish players.
From niche sport to international attraction
In the 1970s and 1980s, Spain began to emerge as a must-visit golf destination. Its exceptional climate, varied landscapes and growing number of golf courses attracted thousands of players from across Europe. The Region of Murcia joined this boom, positioning itself as one of southern Europe’s rising golf hubs.
Today, Murcia is home to internationally renowned courses, known for their design, maintenance and outstanding playing experience. Among them, three stand out as essential for understanding the development of modern golf in the region: Hacienda del Álamo, Mar Menor, and Saurines de la Torre.
Hacienda del Álamo Golf
Regarded as one of the finest golf courses in Murcia, Hacienda del Álamo is a Championship 18-hole layout perfectly integrated into the natural surroundings. Designed to deliver a high-level experience for both amateurs and professionals, this course rewards strategic thinking and technical skill.
The facilities are top-tier: 6 short holes, a large putting green, chipping area, bunkers, and a driving range with both mats and natural grass.
Mar Menor Golf
Located near Torre-Pacheco, Mar Menor Golf is the result of two golf legends: Dave Thomas and Jack Nicklaus. The first nine holes feature narrow fairways and well-defended greens, while the back nine reflect Nicklaus’ hallmark style—wider fairways, larger lakes, and a more open feel to the game.
A standout feature is the impressive lake surrounding holes 13, 14 and 15—nicknamed by locals as the “Amen Corner of Mar Menor”.
Saurines de la Torre
Inspired by the desert courses of Arizona and Las Vegas, Saurines de la Torre offers a unique experience that breaks away from the traditional Spanish golf course. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, it features a breathtaking layout of rolling fairways, sandy dunes and a central lake that sets the rhythm of play.
It’s a technical, demanding and visually striking course. The layout seamlessly connects each hole, and the greens—considered among the best in the region—offer a real challenge. Since opening in 2011, Saurines has become one of Europe’s most distinctive courses, currently ranked among the top 100 courses on the continent.
The future of golf in Spain: innovation, sustainability and community
The evolution of golf in Spain shows no signs of slowing down. Today, the focus extends far beyond course design—sustainability, digitalisation and player experience are at the heart of the sport’s future. In this context, UGOLF, one of Europe’s leading operators, plays a key role in developing, managing and promoting golf with a forward-thinking and responsible vision.
Hacienda del Álamo, Mar Menor and Saurines de la Torre are more than exceptional golf courses—they are driving forces behind Spain’s golf industry. Their innovation, natural settings and professional standards make Murcia one of Europe’s top golfing destinations.
Ready to experience this story for yourself? Book your tee time at UGOLF Spain and discover why Murcia offers so much more than sun and sea. It’s great golf—365 days a year.