Canary Islands: Small Package Offers Big Things for Golfers

By Erica Stokes,
TravelGolf.com Staff Writer

Spread those wings and fly over to the Canary Islands, a magical land off the coast of Morocco. Tee off in a place that some researchers believe may have once been home to the mystical Atlantis. And enjoy first class hotels and amenities while playing on championship courses throughout the chain of the Canary Islands.

Spain’s exotic island gems are world-renowned for fine-sand beaches, year-round subtropical climate and warm, friendly people. While a few small islands (Alegranza, Graciosa, Montana Clara, Roque del Este, Roque del Oeste and Lobos) are included within this region, the Canary Islands consist of seven larger islands, including La Palma, Hierro, Gomera, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.

Snow-capped mountains like Roque de los Muchachos, towering at almost 8,000 feet, rugged canyons that beckon rappellers, volcanic craters like Canadas del Teide, which is wider than 12 miles across, and dense tropical forests help make the Canary Islands a one-stop shop for vacationers. Name a kind of natural scenery and it can probably be found in this exotic locale.

Golfing in the heart of Atlantis

Ok, everything sounds great so far, but what about golf? Yes, this land of many faces can get even better because it gives players the chance to golf on first-rate courses, many which allow viewing of some of the aforementioned scenic highlights. Clear blue waters of the nearby Atlantic also provide a perfect setting and a welcome breeze during that great golf game.

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On the island of Lanzarote, golfers can experience playing on a striking course that is in a class by itself. The Costa Tequise Golf Club is located about 11 miles away from the island’s capital city, Arrecife de Lanzarote. Designed by John Harris, the 18-hole course is set at the base of an ancient volcano. Volcanic lava, tall, swaying palms and magnificent views of the nearby cool, clear sea will entice even those with discriminating tastes. This course confronts golfers with several challenges like super windy conditions and tight playing grounds. But the smooth greens and lush fairways provide players with a way to make every shot count.

New love of golf on an old island

Fuerteventura is right next to Lanzarote but is the narrowest of the larger Canary Islands. The 18-hole course at Fuerteventura Golf Club definitely makes this a spot worth stopping (and playing) for. Understanding the effects of the strong ocean breeze on golf games, designer Juan Catarimeau created the par-71 course accordingly with vegetation that can act as buffers. Babbling brooks, lakes and other bodies of water intermingle with the layout of the course. Both pros and novices can enjoy playing here as Catarimeau made some of the holes simple and others more difficult.

Grand golfing in Gran Canaria

The island of Gran Canaria is home to an array of golf courses. Designed by Mackenzie Ross, the Maspalomas Golf Club or Campo de Golf de Maspalomas, is situated on the southernmost tip of the island, which is under national protection. The par 73, 18-hole course is set in a lush garden-like environment that adds serenity to this subtropical haven. Naturalists can enjoy the undisturbed sand dunes and nearby nature reserve.

Las Palmas Golf Club or the Real Club de Golf Las Palmas is the oldest golf course in all of Spain. Originally built in 1891 next to an old volcano, Mackenzie Ross designed the more modern version in 1957. The par-71 course offers unforgettable views and 18 holes of golf.

Spain’s most prominent golfing event is undoubtedly the Golf Open, held at the El Corjito Golf Center. Designed by Blake Stirling and Marco Martin, this 18-hole course tests golfers’ swings with some uneven grounds and sophisticated bunkers. The fairways are wide and the greens soft. A golf school is even on-site for those who wish to hone their skills before attempting the course.

The Salobre Golf and Resort is a new addition to Gran Canaria and offers year-round golfing in a pristine setting. More golf courses are under construction including Costa Botija Golf and Anfi Tauro Golf. Such completed wonders will give golfers even more reason to visit the Canary Islands.

Teeing off in Tenerife