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What to pack in your golf bag for the perfect round

What to pack in your golf bag for the perfect round

There’s something almost ritualistic about preparing your golf bag before heading out onto the course. That moment when you check your clubs, balls, and accessories doesn’t just get your round organised—it connects you to the game itself. Golf, more than any other sport, is won in the details. A well-prepared bag is the first step to enjoying your round with confidence, free from surprises, and with the calm assurance that you’re ready for whatever the course throws at you.

If you’ve ever stepped onto the first tee only to realise you’ve forgotten your glove, packed just three balls, or left your rangefinder with a dead battery, you’ll know how frustrating it can be. And if you’re at a course like Hacienda del Álamo, where wide fairways encourage you to unleash the driver, but precise approach shots are essential, those small oversights can become costly.

As experienced golfers, we’ve put together a guide to everything that should find a place in your bag, so you can enjoy a seamless, worry-free golf experience.

Your clubs: the heart of your game

Every golfer has their own “arsenal”, but the logic is always the same: choose the right tools for the course and your playing style. A full set typically includes a driver, fairway woods, hybrids, irons, wedges and, of course, a putter.

On the courses of Murcia, where wind and water hazards can come into play, carrying a reliable hybrid or a versatile 3‑wood is almost essential. Saurines de la Torre, with its desert‑inspired design reminiscent of Arizona courses, rewards creativity. Undulating fairways, raised greens and sandy obstacles demand a strategic approach. Distance isn’t always the key—sometimes control is everything.

A personal tip: check your grips and make sure your clubs are clean before every round. Confidence at impact doesn’t come from technique alone; well‑maintained equipment makes a huge difference.

Balls and accessories: the small essentials that matter

Few phrases are as familiar on a golf course as “I’ve run out of balls”. Carrying a generous supply is crucial, especially on courses with water hazards or tough rough. At Mar Menor Golf, for instance, the famous lake wrapping around holes 13, 14 and 15—the course’s very own “Amen Corner”—can test even the most seasoned players. A mis‑hit could find the water, and running out of balls is never an option.

Alongside your balls, tees are another essential, and having a range of heights allows you to adapt to every club in the bag. A simple habit that separates meticulous players from the unprepared is keeping practice balls separate from competition balls. It keeps you focused and ensures that when the critical shot comes, you’re hitting the right ball.

The glove: confidence in your grip

Few items in your kit inspire more confidence than a well‑fitted glove. It’s your direct connection to the club. It prevents slipping, improves grip and provides control in hot or humid conditions.

Carrying a spare glove is a small act of foresight that can save a round. In the heat of a Murcian summer, where temperatures can approach 30 °C, sweat and humidity can wear out a glove in just nine holes. Changing it halfway through keeps your swing consistent and comfortable.

Precision tools: play smarter, not just harder

Modern golf isn’t only about power or style—it’s about information. A laser rangefinder or GPS has become a must for the discerning player. Knowing the exact distance to the flag or a hazard can transform your strategy on every hole.

And golf etiquette reminds us that we’re also custodians of the course. A pitchmark repairer and ball marker are indispensable. Fixing divots, marking your ball correctly and leaving the green pristine are part of the premium golf experience and the mark of a true golfer.

Hydration, snacks, and comfort: fuelling your full 18 holes

Playing 18 holes in Murcia, with over 300 days of sunshine a year, is a true pleasure – as long as you take care of yourself. Hydration is non-negotiable: carry fresh water or isotonic drinks and top up regularly. Pair this with light snacks that keep your energy steady – cereal bars, dried fruit, or a handful of nuts.

In golf, concentration fades when your energy drops. If you want to maintain your best swing from the first tee to the 18th green, proper nutrition and hydration are as crucial as practising your putting.

Sun protection and style-defining details

The Mediterranean gifts us light, but it also demands respect. High-factor sunscreen, polarised sunglasses and a cap are essentials. To these, you can add a small towel to wipe your hands and face, and a lightweight windbreaker if the forecast hints at a breeze.

Golfers who pay attention to these details not only enjoy their round more – they also carry that distinguished look that has always been part of the game.

Smart extras for the discerning player

A truly complete golf bag often includes a few extras that make all the difference:

  • An iron-cleaning brush to keep the grooves clear and ready to generate the spin you need.
  • A compact umbrella – because even in Murcia, the weather can surprise you.
  • A small first-aid kit, which you’ll rarely use, but whose presence is always reassuring.

Your bag ready, your mind prepared… now all you need is the perfect stage

Packing your golf bag properly is the first step towards a memorable round. The second is choosing a course worthy of your passion for the game. At UGOLF Murcia, three exceptional courses await:

  • Hacienda del Álamo Golf, one of Spain’s longest courses, where wide fairways and superb greens invite you to unleash your best game.
  • Mar Menor Golf, with its spectacular lake and a design that blends Dave Thomas’s strategy with the signature of Nicklaus.
  • Saurines de la Torre, a desert-inspired layout that challenges your precision and creativity on every shot.

Playing any of these courses is not just a round – it’s an encounter with golf at its purest.

Book your tee time at UGOLF Murcia now and take your game – and your experience – to the next level.

How to improve your golf handicap and enjoy every round more

How to improve your golf handicap and enjoy every round more

For any golfer, lowering your handicap is more than a matter of pride—it is the tangible measure of your progress. Reaching that coveted number brings greater confidence in every shot, a deeper enjoyment of the course, and the satisfaction of seeing your hours of practice pay off. But improving your handicap requires more than natural talent; it demands strategy, consistency, and taking full advantage of world-class golf facilities.

Understand your handicap and how it works

Your handicap is the tool that allows your level of play to be measured objectively and fairly against other golfers. Under the current World Handicap System, every score you submit adjusts your handicap according to the course rating and your net result, reflecting your true playing level. Understanding how the system works—and the role of qualifying rounds or supplementary scores—allows you to create a smart, consistent plan to bring that number down.

Play more qualifying rounds

If you want to improve, you need to play. But it’s not just about clocking up rounds; they need to count towards your handicap. Whether through official competitions or supplementary scores, these rounds let you capture your real potential without the pressure of a tournament. The more frequently you play qualifying rounds, the more accurate—and the more responsive—your handicap will be.

At our Murcia courses—Hacienda del Álamo Golf, Mar Menor Golf, and Saurines de la Torre—you will find the perfect environment for this. From wide fairways and strategic water hazards to demanding greens, every layout offers a fresh challenge and the opportunity to post scores that truly reflect your improvement.

Practice with purpose

Playing more is not enough—you need to practise smarter. Elite golfers do not just hit balls; they practise with a clear objective:

  • Prioritise your short game: Approaches and putting account for most of the strokes that bring your handicap down.
  • Simulate pressure: Train as if you were in competition to master the nerves of that first tee shot.
  • Analyse your stats: Identify where you are losing shots—whether in bunkers, the rough, or on the greens—to focus your practice effectively.

At UGOLF Academy by Thomas Johansson, we use advanced swing analysis technology and NXT LVL programmes to pinpoint areas for improvement and design a personalised plan. This is the difference between routine practice and training to win.

Choose the right courses to progress

Playing the same course repeatedly can limit your development. Rotating between different layouts develops a more complete game:

  • Hacienda del Álamo Golf: One of Spain’s longest courses, perfect for honing strategy and distance control.
  • Mar Menor Golf: Combines narrow holes with generous greens and water features that demand precision.
  • Saurines de la Torre Golf: Desert-style design with undulating fairways and challenging greens that sharpen your course-reading skills.

Enjoying premium facilities not only raises your level of play but also transforms every round into a memorable experience, on par with Europe’s most renowned golfing destinations.

Keep the right mindset

Lowering your handicap is a marathon, not a sprint. Consistency, patience, and emotional control are as vital as your swing. Play with ease, avoid obsessing over your score on every hole, and remember: every shot is a chance to learn.

Training with a clear plan, combined with playing on high-quality courses, makes the journey of improving your handicap as exciting as it is rewarding.

Ready to take your golf to the next level? Book your tee time at our UGOLF Murcia courses and discover why we are the destination of choice for golfers who want to elevate their game with style and excellence.

The history of golf in Spain and Murcia’s role

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.

Improve your golf game in Murcia with UGOLF

Improve your golf game in Murcia with UGOLF

Murcia has firmly established itself as one of the most attractive golf destinations in Spain. With its privileged climate, unique landscapes, and top-quality courses, every round here is an unforgettable experience. At UGOLF, we manage three of the finest golf courses in the region: Hacienda del Álamo Golf, Mar Menor Golf, and Saurines de la Torre Golf. Each offers a different kind of challenge in a spectacular setting.

Today, we’re sharing the best tips to help you get the most out of your game at each of these courses. Ready to take your golf to the next level?

Hacienda del Álamo Golf

Known as one of the longest golf courses in Spain, Hacienda del Álamo is a true test for ambitious players. Its generous fairways and well-placed hazards demand powerful shots, but also a strategic mindset.

Top tips for playing better at Hacienda del Álamo

  • Sharpen your driver: Distance is key here. Make the most of the practice areas to refine your long game.
  • Manage water hazards wisely: They’re strategically positioned, so plan your shots carefully to steer clear of trouble.
  • Master long putts: The greens are large and fast—reading the break and controlling the pace will be essential.

Mar Menor Golf

Designed by Dave Thomas and Nicklaus Design, Mar Menor Golf blends technical holes with wider, more forgiving ones. To score well, you’ll need sharp short-game skills and a keen sense of how the wind moves near the lake.

Top tips for playing better at Mar Menor Golf

  • Perfect your chips and putts: This course rewards players who excel around the greens. Precision will save you strokes.

  • Think strategically: The compact layout invites smart play. Focus on consistency over risk-taking.

  • Watch out for the coastal breeze: The wind coming from the Mar Menor can influence your long shots more than you think.

Saurines de la Torre

Inspired by the desert-style courses of Arizona and Las Vegas, Saurines de la Torre is one of Spain’s most visually striking and technically demanding layouts. Rolling fairways, natural dunes, and a dramatic central lake define the experience.

Top tips for playing better at Saurines de la Torre

  • Play with precision: With few bunkers but plenty of terrain movement, there’s little room for error.
  • Control your putts on undulating greens: Their complexity requires full focus on speed and direction.
  • Avoid the central lake: It comes into play on several holes and demands thoughtful decision-making.

Discover the best golf of your life in Murcia

Each UGOLF course in Murcia delivers a unique playing experience, but they all share the same commitment to quality, expert design, and unforgettable scenery. If you’re looking to refine your skills, soak up the sun, and tackle exciting new challenges, Murcia is your perfect golf destination.

Book your tee time now at Hacienda del Álamo, Mar Menor, or Saurines de la Torre, and get ready for an outstanding day on the course.

3 golf courses in Murcia to enjoy year-round golf

3 golf courses in Murcia to enjoy year-round golf

When it comes to playing golf in Spain, Murcia shines with its own light. With over 300 days of sunshine each year and mild temperatures throughout the seasons, this region has become a true haven for golf lovers. Few places allow you to play top-level courses in the heart of winter or enjoy a round with breathtaking views in the middle of summer.

At UGOLF, we manage three standout golf courses in the region: Hacienda del Álamo Golf, Mar Menor Golf, and Saurines de la Torre Golf. Each has its own character, but all promise an exceptional experience no matter the time of year.

  1. Hacienda del Álamo Golf

At 6,724 metres, Hacienda del Álamo is one of the longest courses in Spain. Its championship-style layout offers a technical challenge that excites both seasoned players and those looking to improve their game.

In summer, the course’s wide fairways, meticulously maintained greens, and water hazards provide not only a thrilling game, but also a stunning natural setting. The area’s dry, warm climate ensures that even the sunniest days are perfect for a round of golf.

  1. Mar Menor Golf

Designed by Dave Thomas (front nine) and Nicklaus Design (back nine), Mar Menor Golf is a versatile course, ideal for enjoying the game during the cooler months. Murcia’s winter climate delivers mild temperatures and sunny days—perfect for a relaxed, uncrowded round.

With high-quality accommodation, complete practice facilities, and a cutting-edge golf academy, Mar Menor is far more than just a course—it’s a true golf destination. Don’t miss the legendary “Amen Corner”, where the lake surrounding holes 13, 14, and 15 adds equal parts beauty and challenge.

  1. Saurines de la Torre Golf

Inspired by the desert-style layouts of Arizona, Saurines de la Torre offers something truly different in the Spanish golf scene. Its rolling fairways wind between sand dunes, with minimal vegetation and a striking central lake, creating a unique and immersive atmosphere.

With its 18-hole, par-72 layout, Saurines demands strategy, precision, and strong putting skills. The course’s high-quality greens are particularly challenging. Spring and autumn are the best times to play here, with warm, golden light and ideal course conditions.

Murcia: year-round golf at Its finest

Thanks to its favourable climate, modern infrastructure, and world-class course design, Murcia stands out as one of Europe’s premier golf destinations—whatever the season. Be it summer, winter, spring, or autumn, UGOLF offers you tailored experiences to enjoy golf to the fullest, all year long.

Ready to find your favourite course? Book your tee time today and discover golf like never before in Murcia.

Golf route in Murcia: a paradise for green lovers

Golf route in Murcia: a paradise for green lovers

Looking to combine your passion for golf with enviable year-round sunshine? Murcia has become one of Europe’s most attractive golf destinations, offering a unique experience that goes far beyond the game itself. Join us as we explore the spectacular trio of courses that make up an unmissable route: Hacienda del Álamo, Mar Menor, and Saurines de la Torre.

The Golden Triangle of golf in Murcia

With over 300 days of sunshine a year and an average temperature of 19°C, the Region of Murcia offers ideal conditions for golfing in any season. This exceptional climate, combined with top-tier and varied golf facilities, has firmly established Murcia as a favourite among both local and international golfers.

1. Hacienda del Álamo Golf Resort: strategy, space and nature

We begin our route at Hacienda del Álamo Golf, one of the longest courses in Spain, stretching over 6,724 metres. This Championship-style course is beautifully integrated into the surrounding landscape, boasting generous fairways, well-placed water hazards and challenging greens. Designed to test both precision and strategic play, it’s ideal for seasoned players looking for a true technical challenge.

What makes Hacienda del Álamo special?

  • Advanced technical design: Every hole offers a different strategic challenge, where accuracy matters just as much as power.
    Wide yet demanding fairways: Visual freedom with consequences for imprecise shots.
  • Impressive greens: Fast, undulating and immaculately maintained all year round.
  • Strategic water features: Adding beauty and difficulty in equal measure.

This course caters to experienced golfers without being overwhelming for those with higher handicaps. Its scenic surroundings, framed by Murcia’s mountain ranges and Mediterranean gardens, create a truly unforgettable golfing experience.

2. Mar Menor Golf: two designs in one

Our next stop is Mar Menor Golf, a unique course that brings together the creativity of Dave Thomas and Nicklaus Design. The front nine holes are technical, with narrow fairways, deep bunkers and lakes that demand focus. In contrast, the back nine offer a more open layout, with wider fairways encouraging a more relaxed game. This duality ensures a complete and rewarding experience for golfers of all abilities.

Why play at Mar Menor?

  • Nicklaus Signature design: Detailed layouts with generous fairways inviting an attacking style.
  • 9-hole par 36 format: Compact yet complete – ideal for those seeking a shorter but intense round.
  • Full resort experience: Golf, luxury accommodation and premium services all in one place.
  • Accessible for all skill levels: From beginners to seasoned pros, everyone can enjoy the course.

The course blends perfectly with the natural surroundings and offers stunning views of the Mar Menor, Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon—creating a picturesque and relaxing environment for every swing.

3. Saurines de la Torre: desert spirit in Murcia

We end our route at one of Spain’s most unique golf courses: Saurines de la Torre Golf, designed by Jack Nicklaus and inspired by the desert courses of Las Vegas and Arizona. With its innovative layout, this course features undulating fairways winding between dunes, elevated greens, sparse bunkering and a large central lake that comes into play on multiple holes.

Not only is its desert style visually stunning, but it also presents a serious challenge for players looking for something different. Saurines is ranked among Spain’s top 40 golf courses, according to the Top 100 Golf Courses list.

What sets Saurines apart?

  • Authentic desert design: Dunes, strategic lakes and minimal vegetation create a dramatic, almost lunar landscape.
  • 18-hole par 72 layout: A full course with a variety of technical tests.
  • Challenging, undulating greens: Precision putting is essential here.

  • Strategically placed bunkers: Adding complexity both visually and in play.

Also overseen by the Nicklaus team, this course offers a completely different look and feel to the others on the route, giving golfers the chance to experience three distinct styles of play within just a few kilometres.

Why choose this golf route in Murcia?

This trio of courses offers a truly complete and varied golfing experience:

  • Technical diversity: From classic European design to bold American desert style.
  • Top-tier infrastructure: Modern facilities with every service a golfer might need.
  • Prime location: Close to beaches, historic towns and renowned Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Exceptional weather: Year-round golf with perfect playing conditions.

Plan your golf getaway to Murcia

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking for new challenges or an enthusiast eager to improve your game in extraordinary surroundings, this Murcia golf route offers one of the most complete experiences in Europe.

Dare to conquer the Region’s most iconic courses? Pack your clubs, book your tee time, and prepare to be amazed by the golfing paradise that awaits you under the Mediterranean sun.

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