Tee Times

Spain Golf Holidays Spotlight: Real Club de Golf El Prat Hosts the Catalunya Championship

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The Estrella Damm Catalunya Championship begins a new chapter at the historic Real Club de Golf El Prat, one of the most respected venues in Spanish golf. With more than a century of history and over 250 tournaments hosted, the Barcelona-area club once again welcomes the DP World Tour, reinforcing its position as a landmark destination in European golf.

Founded in 1912 as the Barcelona Golf Club, the venue originally featured a modest nine-hole course located in the upper area of Barcelona. As the popularity of the sport grew and the city expanded, the club moved to El Prat de Llobregat, adopting the name it still carries today.

In the 1950s, renowned architect Javier Arana designed a new course that opened in 1955. Just one year later, the club hosted the Open de España, marking a turning point in its international recognition.

Over the decades, El Prat became the stage for several memorable tournaments. Champions such as Severiano Ballesteros, Peter Thomson, Thomas Bjørn and Jarmo Sandelin all lifted trophies there. The club also welcomed legendary names including Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Tom Watson during various international events.

A New Era at Bonvilar

Due to the expansion of Barcelona’s airport, the club eventually relocated to the Bonvilar estate, a vast natural area between Terrassa and Sabadell. The current facility was designed by Australian champion Greg Norman and opened in 2003 with 45 holes set within a protected ecological corridor.

Among these layouts, the Pink Course stands out for its strategic challenge and scenic beauty. It will host the Catalunya Championship from 7 to 10 May.

The venue previously welcomed the DP World Tour during the 2011 Open de España, an emotional edition following the passing of Seve Ballesteros. South African golfer Thomas Aiken claimed victory that year, while James Morrison triumphed in the 2015 edition.

A Key Moment for Spanish Golf

With the Catalunya Championship now joining the club’s long list of international tournaments, the event strengthens Spain’s reputation as one of Europe’s leading golf destinations. Major competitions like this continue to attract players and fans from around the world, reinforcing the appeal of the country for travellers seeking unforgettable golf experiences.

For many visitors, tournaments of this level offer a glimpse into the quality and heritage that define golf in the country. It is one of the reasons why Spain golf holidays remain increasingly popular, combining championship courses, historic clubs and world-class playing conditions across regions such as Catalonia, the Costa del Sol and beyond.

The Catalunya Championship, part of the Race to Dubai and the opening event of the European Swing, also marks the start of the journey toward the 2031 Ryder Cup, which will take place at Camiral Golf & Wellness.

Golf For Wish at Monte Rei Highlights the Heart of Portugal Golf

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Portugal golf will take on a deeper meaning on 11 April as Monte Rei Golf & Country Club hosts Golf For Wish, a special charity tournament in partnership with Make-A-Wish Portugal. This year’s edition is proudly sponsored by Tee Times Golf Holidays, reinforcing its commitment to supporting both Portugal golf and meaningful community initiatives.

The event will be played on the renowned North Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, widely regarded as one of the finest championship layouts in the Algarve. The tournament follows a 4 Ball Better Ball pairs format, combining competition with camaraderie on one of Portugal’s most respected stages.

The day begins at 08:00 with registration, followed by access to the practice facilities at 08:30. A shotgun start at 09:30 sets the field in motion. After the round, players will gather for a three course lunch with drinks, where a solidarity auction will take place between courses.

The entry fee for golfers is €245 per person, with the full amount donated to Make-A-Wish Portugal. Participation includes lunch, shared buggy and one hour of practice range access.

Non golfers are also invited to join, with a two hour beginner clinic at 12:00, followed by lunch and the charity auction. The entry fee is €65 per person, entirely donated to the cause.

As Portugal golf continues to grow internationally, events like Golf For Wish show how the sport can extend beyond competition. With the support of Tee Times, Monte Rei once again becomes a place where excellence on the course meets generosity beyond it.

Costa del Sol Golf Party Showcases Spain Golf in Madrid

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Spain was firmly in the spotlight on 2 March as the Costa del Sol Golf Party returned to the Centro Nacional de Golf for its second edition. The event continues to grow as a key meeting point between Madrid’s golf community and the Costa del Sol, one of the most important regions for Spain golf.

The 18 hole tournament offered strong competition and attractive prizes. Every par 3 featured premium golf equipment, including putters, drivers and wedges, along with green fees at leading courses on the Costa del Sol. Well known names such as Bernd Schuster, Raúl, Mista and Melgar joined managers, federation representatives, journalists and influencers, adding visibility and credibility to this Spain golf gathering.

After the tournament, players and guests enjoyed a relaxed cocktail reception and prize ceremony. A large raffle included modern golf equipment and exclusive Costa del Sol experiences. Sabor a Málaga added a regional touch with traditional espetos, bringing a taste of southern Spain to Madrid.

At the same time, the TopTracer simulator area attracted constant participation from 11:00 to 23:00. With a total of 1,700 attendees throughout the day, the numbers reflect the growing interest in Spain golf, not only as a sport but also as a travel and networking opportunity.

Promoted by the Mancomunidad de Municipios de la Costa del Sol Occidental, Turismo y Planificación de la Costa del Sol, the municipalities of Benahavís, Marbella and Málaga, and organised by JGolf.

The Costa del Sol Golf Party strengthens the connection between Madrid and the Costa del Sol, reinforcing Spain golf as a leading European destination.