Renowned for its nightlife, party atmosphere and sunny summers, Majorca is perhaps not best known as a great golfing destination. So it was with more than a little trepidation that I flew to Palma to experience Majorca as the up and coming place to take a golf holiday. Arriving in Palma, after just over two and a half hours on a plane from Newcastle, I negotiated the maze that is Palma airport and emerged into glorious sunshine. The advantages of a well developed tourist resort soon became apparent as I easily found my transport, and relaxed on the journey to my hotel, admiring the views along the way. I'd been told that there are now around 20 golf courses on the island and that this meant there was plenty of variety for players of all levels. Keen to put this to the test I'd booked golf on several of the courses and was certainly looking forward to playing in the sunshine. The first advantage soon became clear when I discovered that most of the courses are within an hour's drive. First up was Son Vida, a par 72 course that is characterised by many doglegs, fast greens and strategically placed bunkers. The views over Palma Bay and Sierra Tramuntana were lovely and along with the tree-lined fairways and bright Mediterranean flora, I had a very enjoyable game of golf. Golf at Santa Ponsa, with its three courses (one private) was a little more demanding. It's long, with wide sloping fairways set in beautiful open countryside dotted with almond and olive trees. The par 5 10th, is the longest hole in Europe, at 590m. Well maintained and with plenty of water hazards, it's easy to see why the course attracts many national and international tournaments. Accuracy was vital at Poniente, as it's been cleverly designed and boasts tree-lined fairways, seven lakes and many bunkers. It was certainly an enjoyable, challenging game, though not as scenic as the beautiful Bendinat. This course has been declared a nature reserve, and is certainly picturesque and requires every club in your bag. Finally I played at Son Termens, which is regarded as one of the most peaceful courses on the island as it was built on a former hunting estate and boasts some well-protected bunkers and ravines. Many of the clubhouses are well used, sociable and pleasant places to enjoy a drink or two. Fellow golfers also recommended the two courses at Son Antem for good, varied play and Vall d'Or Golf for its magnificent sea views. Obviously golf was high on my agenda, but I also took time to explore and found that I could be away from the crowds and in beautiful unspoilt countryside or wandering around narrow, cobbled alleyways within ten minutes of the main resorts. Palma itself is a must-see, with its grand, breathtaking 14th Century cathedral, pretty old town and picturesque castle. The tourist resorts are never far away so dining is easy, with everything from fast food to the wonderful traditional Mallorcan favourites, including Sobrasada (minced pork with hot red peppers) and Tumbet (a delicious kind of ratatouille). Accommodation is plentiful and there is something to suit every customer and budget. The Marriott Son Antem provides a peaceful location and offers all the luxuries associated with a worldwide chain and two excellent golf courses on site. Alternatively, the Sol Magaluf Park in Magaluf is close to the beach and all the action, with the golf within easy driving distance. In Calvia, the Best Western Son Caliu is friendly, situated in secluded cove and not far from th elivley resort of Palma Nova. So would I agree with Majorca's latest label as a great golfing holiday destination? Absolutely. It's only a short flight from the UK, the accommodation is quality and plentiful, as is the golf, and there's nightlife and historical splendour in equal measures. What's more, with year-round sunshine and local flights from Newcastsle, Durham Tees Valley and Leeds to chose from, there's no problem deciding when to go.
Travel to Majorca with Bill Goff Holidays. Call 0808156 5938 or email sales@billgoff.com for more information and your own personalised quote. Or log on to the website: www.billgoff.com
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Golfing Destinations
