Tee Times

Spain’s Tourism Surge in Q1 2025

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Spain’s tourism industry has kicked off 2025 with a record-setting first quarter, and Golf holidays in the Costa del Sol are poised to reap the rewards. According to the National Statistics Institute (INE), over 17.1 million international tourists visited Spain between January and March 2025, a 5.7% year-on-year increase. Total tourism spend for Q1 soared to €23.5 billion, with March alone contributing over €9.1 billion.

Crucially for the golf travel market, average spending per visitor hit €1,382, while daily expenditure climbed to €188, signalling the rise of a more affluent, experience-driven tourist base. The UK remains Spain’s top source market, with over 3.1 million visitors, followed by France, Germany, and a notable 11% increase from the United States.

Explore our Costa del Sol Golf Holidays as well as our Car Hire and Transfer services for a seamless Costa del Sol golf experience.

Costa del Sol: Luxury, Leisure, and Golf Combine

Already famed for its 70+ golf courses, sunny climate, and coastal glamour, the Costa del Sol has emerged as one of the main beneficiaries of Spain’s Q1 tourism boom. Regions like Marbella, Estepona, and Benahavís are welcoming waves of high-spending visitors, many combining rounds of golf with luxury stays, fine dining, and beachfront leisure.

Golf resorts such as Los Flamingos, La Quinta, and Finca Cortesin are seeing increased interest, not just from players, but also from international travellers exploring golf-and-stay experiences and second-home opportunities. The sharp rise in short-term rentals, especially near golf courses, further reflects the segment’s growing appeal.

From Tee Time to Property Investment

Spain’s shift toward year-round quality tourism is creating a unique window for both holidaymakers and real estate investors. Many golf resorts now cater to dual-purpose travellers, those who arrive for sport and leave considering a long-term foothold.

Luxury communities such as Cabo Bermejo, Torre Bermeja, and areas along the New Golden Mile are seeing upticks in rental demand and property viewings, thanks to the region’s reputation for wellness, security, and recreational lifestyle.

Golf Holidays and Off-Season Travel

Spain’s government continues to promote seasonal diversification and regional tourism, which bodes well for golf-centric destinations. Unlike sun-and-beach travel, golf tourism thrives outside the peak summer months, offering visitors mild temperatures, quieter greens, and lower rates during spring and autumn.

This aligns perfectly with the preferences of UK-based golf travellers, many of whom seek flexible tee time bookings, scenic coastal courses, and an escape from northern Europe’s colder months.

Outlook for 2025 and Beyond

With Spain maintaining strong momentum in infrastructure, visa policy, and destination marketing, the Costa del Sol golf holiday sector is set for further growth. As premium beachfront and golf-side inventory tightens, those booking early, or investing now, are well positioned to capitalise on rising demand.

For golfers seeking a mix of lifestyle, sport, and sun-drenched scenery, Spain’s 2025 tourism boom isn’t just a headline, it’s a golden opportunity.

Portugal’s First Fairmont Golf Resort

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A new chapter is about to begin for one of Vilamoura’s crown jewels. The Victoria Golf Resort & Spa, known for its proximity to the iconic Vilamoura Victoria Golf Course, soon to be renamed Els Club Vilamoura and home of the Portugal Masters, is set to undergo a significant transformation. Following a comprehensive property improvement plan, the resort will be rebranded as a Fairmont, becoming the first hotel in Portugal under the prestigious Fairmont Hotels & Resorts banner.

This marks a powerful upgrade in the Algarve’s luxury golf holiday offering, and a clear signal of Vilamoura’s rising status as one of Europe’s premier destinations for discerning golf travellers.

As the Victoria Golf Resort prepares for its transition into the Fairmont portfolio, it stands as a beacon of what Vilamoura has to offer: refined accommodation, world-class golf, and unmatched convenience. Discover more through our Vilamoura Golf Holidays and ensure smooth travel with our Car Hire and Transfer Services.

A Seamless Blend of Luxury and Local Culture

While Accor will continue to manage the property under a white label during renovations, the completed resort will fully integrate Fairmont’s global luxury standards, elevating its spa, conference, and leisure offerings while preserving a strong connection to the region’s heritage. The goal? To place the hotel at the heart of Vilamoura’s refined lifestyle and natural surroundings.

The property already features four restaurants, four bars, four swimming pools, a spa with six treatment rooms, a gym, and a kids’ club. Each room and suite has a private balcony, and the resort’s large conference centre can host up to 700 guests, making it ideal for high-end events and golf retreats.

Positioned on Portugal’s Golfing Frontline

Vilamoura has long been a cornerstone of Portugal golf holidays, and this rebranding only strengthens its allure. Fairmont’s global reputation, combined with the prestige of the soon-to-be-renamed Els Club Vilamoura, positions the resort as a flagship destination for golfers seeking top-tier service, design, and experience.

According to Fairmont CEO Omer Acar, the brand is “thrilled” to enter the Portuguese market through this project, calling Vilamoura “one of Portugal’s most exciting and sought-after destinations.”

Local Integration Meets Global Standards

The move also reflects the broader strategy of property owner Arrow Global Group, which is actively building a multi-faceted leisure, sports, and hospitality ecosystem in Vilamoura. The aim: to elevate Portugal’s tourism infrastructure while staying deeply rooted in its landscape, gastronomy, and community.

Golfers exploring beyond the fairways can enjoy nearby cultural and natural treasures: from oyster tastings in the Ria Formosa to hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, or browsing the markets of Loulé.

A Future-Forward Vision for Algarve Travel

This partnership between Fairmont, Accor, and Arrow Global is more than a facelift, it’s a strategic repositioning that blends global luxury with authentic local experiences. For travellers planning golf holidays in Portugal in 2025 and beyond, the reimagined Victoria Golf Resort will offer a standout option in a competitive landscape.

Tee Times Present at IAGTO European Convention: Connecting, Growing, Evolving

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The IAGTO European Convention (IEC) is back. From May 19 to 21, the spotlight will shine on Gran Canaria, and the golf travel community will come together again. With more than 30 years delivering top-tier golf experiences in Portugal, Spain, and other destinations, Tee Times Golf Holidays is proud to be part of this essential industry event as an IAGTO member.

This year’s IEC will be held at ExpoMeloneras — a world-class venue in the heart of Gran Canaria’s hospitality district.

For us, the IEC is much more than just a business convention. It’s a place to reconnect with long-time friends, strengthen trusted partnerships, and explore fresh opportunities. Carlos Ferreira, Founder & CEO, said: “IEC isn’t just a schedule full of meetings — it’s a chance to reconnect with partners who’ve been part of our journey for years. In this industry, relationships matter, and meeting face-to-face helps keep that trust strong.”

From Algarve to the World

Over three decades, Tee Times has grown from a local expert in the Algarve into a leading DMC serving golfers across Europe and other destinations. Our secret? A deep love for the game, personalised attention, and a constant drive to innovate, offering the best golf package for unforgettable golf holidays.

“Being at IEC is essential for us,” Ferreira adds. “It’s about reinforcing what we’ve built and staying open to new opportunities as a DMC — finding fresh connections with suppliers and buyers who share our passion for golf and quality service.”

Jorge Diogo, our Director of Sales & Marketing, agrees: “There’s nothing quite like a real conversation. Events like this let you connect with long-time partners and discover new opportunities.” And he continues: “We’re excited to be part of the IAGTO European Convention because it’s the perfect stage to show what we do at Tee Times. Meeting new buyers and suppliers helps us stay ahead and improve the experience we offer golf travellers.”

We look forward to another memorable edition of the IAGTO European Convention and continuing our mission of bringing golfers closer to the best courses, cultures, and connections across Portugal, Spain and some of the best world golf destinations.