I have recently returned from a familiarisation trip to the region of Murcia in Spain, which in my opinion is an undiscovered golfing area for the UK market. They have eight golf courses within 30-40 minutes’ drive of each other. During my trip (13-17 November 2025) the weather was dry, warm and sunny, between 20-25 degrees during the day, with cool evenings.
We stayed a few nights at the DoubleTree by Hilton La Torre Golf Resort, located 20 minutes from Murcia Airport, even though it has a 5-star rating, in my opinion it is a good 4-star hotel and offers value for money. La Torre Golf only 5 minutes’ walk away, so very convenient.
La Torre Golf, designed by Nicklaus Design, is an 18-hole, Par 68, 5403m course. Even though the course is short in distance and from the tees has relatively wide fairways, which narrow the closer you get to the greens, it isn’t as easy as you initially think. The fairways are protected with waste bunkers along the sides and bunkers and lakes protecting the greens, be prepared for the challenging Par-3s! After our round we enjoyed a typical Spanish lunch of tapas and paella, overlooking the driving range.
The following day, we played Roda Golf, a scenic 18-hole, Par 72, 6177m parkland course and considered as one of the best golf courses in Murcia, designed by Dave Thomas. The course is challenging, with water protecting at least five greens, the Par 5, 18th hole is tough, especially into the wind, with a water hazard protecting the green!
After our round at Roda Golf, the following day we checked into the 5-star Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa, which reopened in 2023 after undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment and is now a truly luxurious hotel, with a new Alma Spa and an adult only infinite swimming pool overlooking the 18th green on the South Course. We had a wonderful lunch after golf and the breakfast selection is outstanding.
During our brief stay, we played La Manga Club – South Course, designed by Robert Putman and Arnold Palmer, this 18-hole, Par 72, 6499m championship course, is probably one of the fairest tests of golf one can find, although on the day I played my ‘A’ game deserted me and I found it difficult. Located in the centre of the valley, with wide palm-fringed fairways and water hazards that come into play of 15 of the 18 holes, it offers a challenge to most golfers.
The last course we played was Mar Menor Golf, 18-holes, Par 72, 6153m, designed by two greats; Dave Thomas and Jack Nicklaus, resulting in two different experiences on the same course. A special mention to the large lake that comes into play on 13th, 14th and 15th, known by local players as ‘Amen Corner’. The course is enjoyable for all levels of golfing ability. The clubhouse restaurant and bar have a great relaxed atmosphere and is adjoined to the 5-star Ona Mar Menor Hotel. In my opinion is a good 4-star resort and offers great value for money.
Another hotel we visited was the 4-star Hotel 525 in Los Alcazares, this hotel has a great location within easy walk of bars and restaurants. The hotel pool is on the roof and looks of the town and the Mar Menor lagoon towards the La Manga strip (a thin piece of land, which creates the Mar Menor. The closest golf course is Roda Golf only 6 minutes’ drive and three other courses; Mar Menor Golf, La Torre Golf and Hacienda Riquelme within 20 minutes’ drive.
During our 4 nights visit, we had a cultural tour of Murcia City and experienced a typical tapas dinner in Plaza de las Flores, the city is known for its tapas. The city has a magnificent Cathedral and historical buildings, great shopping, restaurants and bars, it is a great place for a city break. I will definitely be returning for a long weekend.
Another to city we visited was Cartagena, located on the coast, it is a port city and naval base, but what we came to see was the Roman Theatre Museum and city centre. Amazing to see what they have discovered.
On our last night, we walked around Cabo de Palos a picturesque coast town, which is at the start of La Manga del Mar Menor. Originally a small fishing village, it has retained much of its charm while becoming a popular destination for nature lovers and divers. The iconic lighthouse, built in 1865, sits on a rocky promontory and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean. We were with a local resident who took us to a restaurant where we had a wonderful fish dinner.
The region of Murcia, offers great value of money, a variety of accommodation and a choice of golf courses from the ones mentioned above and these below; El Valle, Hacienda Riquelme, Hacienda del Alamo and Saurines.
Please remember if you can’t find what you are looking for or have a particular resort and date in mind, or need inspiration, please contact us, so we can create your bespoke golf escape.