A Guide to the Best Golf Courses in the Valencian Community

The Valencian Community in Spain, stretching along the sun-soaked Mediterranean coast, is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural history. But for golf enthusiasts, this region offers a unique combination of scenic beauty and challenging golf courses, making it one of the top golfing destinations in Europe. From championship courses designed by some of the best golf architects in the world to hidden gems tucked away in serene settings, the Valencian Community has something for golfers of every skill level.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best golf courses in the Valencian Community, considering their layout, amenities, accessibility, and overall experience. Whether you're looking to tee off with views of the Mediterranean or play a round surrounded by lush forests, the Valencian Community promises a golfing experience like no other.

1. La Sella Golf Resort (Denia)

Located in Denia, just north of Alicante, La Sella Golf Resort is one of the most prestigious golf destinations in the Valencian Community. Designed by the renowned Spanish golfer José María Olazábal, La Sella offers 27 holes spread across three distinct loops, making it a diverse and engaging course for players of all levels.

Course Overview:

• Holes: 27 (three 9-hole loops: Llebeig, Gregal, and Mestral)
• Par: 72
• Length: 6,289 meters

The course is surrounded by the Montgó Natural Park, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and Mediterranean Sea. With well-maintained fairways and greens, La Sella is known for its technical challenges, with strategic water hazards and bunkers placed to test even the most skilled players.

Amenities:

• Golf academy with professional instructors
• Luxury hotel on-site
• Spa and wellness center
• Fine dining options
• Practice facilities, including a driving range and putting green

2. Club de Golf El Bosque (Chiva)

El Bosque Golf Club is a must-visit for golfers looking for a challenging course. Located just 25 kilometers west of Valencia, this Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed course is set amidst rolling hills and lush forests, offering both a scenic and demanding golfing experience.

Course Overview:

• Holes: 18
• Par: 72
• Length: 6,249 meters

What sets El Bosque apart is its challenging layout, with numerous water hazards and tight fairways that require precision off the tee. The course's elevation changes add to the difficulty, but also provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Amenities:

• Clubhouse with restaurant and bar
• Pro shop
• Practice facilities, including driving range and short game area
• Golf academy

3. Real Club de Golf Manises (Manises)

As the oldest golf club in the Valencian Community, Real Club de Golf Manises offers a traditional and timeless golfing experience. Founded in 1917, this historic course is located just a short drive from Valencia's city center, making it an ideal spot for a quick round.

Course Overview:

• Holes: 9
• Par: 72 (18 when played twice)
• Length: 5,861 meters

Despite its modest length, Manises is known for its tight fairways and well-placed bunkers, requiring strategic play and accuracy. The course’s mature trees and beautifully manicured grounds add to its charm, making it a favorite among local golfers.

Amenities:

• Clubhouse with a restaurant and bar
• Pro shop
• Practice facilities

4. Club de Golf Escorpión (Bétera)

Located just 15 kilometers from Valencia, Club de Golf Escorpión is one of the region's premier golf clubs. This 27-hole course is designed to challenge golfers of all skill levels, with its diverse layout and pristine conditions.

Course Overview:

• Holes: 27 (three 9-hole loops: Los Lagos, Los Nuevos, and Masia)
• Par: 72
• Length: 6,157 meters

The course is characterized by its lush greenery, water hazards, and beautifully landscaped surroundings. Los Lagos, the most challenging of the three loops, features several water hazards that come into play on multiple holes. On the other hand, Masia offers a more relaxed layout with wider fairways and fewer hazards, making it ideal for beginners.

Amenities:

• Clubhouse with restaurant and terrace
• Golf academy with experienced instructors
• Full practice facilities, including a driving range, putting green, and short game area
• Pro shop

5. Villaitana Golf (Benidorm)

Villaitana Golf, located in the popular tourist destination of Benidorm, offers two excellent golf courses designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus. The Levante course is a championship layout with expansive views of the Mediterranean, while the Poniente course is a shorter, more technical course ideal for golfers seeking a challenge.

Course Overview:

• Levante Course (Championship): 18 holes, Par 72, Length 6,576 meters
• Poniente Course: 18 holes, Par 62, Length 3,674 meters

The Levante course features wide fairways and large greens, allowing for a more forgiving round of golf. However, the numerous bunkers and water hazards ensure that it’s not without its challenges. The Poniente course, on the other hand, is set in a more rugged terrain, with narrow fairways and elevation changes that require careful shot selection.

Amenities:

• Luxury hotel and spa on-site
• Multiple dining options
• Full practice facilities
• Golf academy

6. La Galiana Golf Resort (Carcaixent)

Located in a peaceful valley near Carcaixent, La Galiana Golf is one of the hidden gems of the Valencian Community. This 18-hole course is set in a natural landscape with stunning views of the surrounding hills, making it one of the most beautiful courses in the region.

Course Overview:

• Holes: 18
• Par: 72
• Length: 6,216 meters

La Galiana is known for its pristine conditions, with well-maintained fairways and greens that make for an enjoyable round. The course’s layout is both scenic and challenging, with several water hazards and strategically placed bunkers adding to the difficulty.

Amenities:

• Clubhouse with restaurant and terrace
• Practice facilities, including driving range and putting green
• Golf academy
• Pro shop

Conclusion

The Valencian Community is a paradise for golfers, offering a diverse range of courses that cater to all skill levels. Whether you're looking to play on a championship course designed by a golf legend or enjoy a relaxing round in a serene natural setting, this region has something to offer. With its combination of beautiful landscapes, excellent golfing facilities, and year-round sunshine, the Valencian Community is a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast.