Son Gual

The course is located just to the west of Palma, which is the main city and destination for most visitors, with the airport being easily accessible. Throughout the island there are hundreds of gorgeous restaurants, bars and clubs to enjoy the time away from the fairways. In addition, there is a vast array of different types of accommodation with some very high-quality hotels, although inexpensive lodging can be found without too much difficulty. The normal golfing travel agents offer superb deals for those wishing to visit for a short break. 

Son Gual is a par 72 layout, which measures over 7200 yards from the championship tees. It is in stunning condition and a real pleasure to play. There is a selection of tees so golfers need not be overawed by the distance from the championship blocks. Since it opened in 2007, it has consistently featured in the top 100 courses in Europe, which is not surprising as it is such a delight to play.

The course is heavily bunkered and has gently undulating fairways with wickedly fast greens which are difficult to navigate for the first-time visitor. Water is in play for a number of holes, whilst the par fives offer a chance to pick up birdies and smarten-up your card, providing power is married to precision. The wind can play a factor too and, despite not having a windy reputation, there is often a strongish breeze, which can change direction without warning.

Majorca is a beautiful island, not far from the coast of Spain in the Mediterranean. Like the other Balearic Islands, it has a wonderful climate and is very popular with expats from northern Europe as well as Spanish residents. It has hills, mountains, spectacular views, the sparkling Mediterranean and a fabulous climate. It therefore makes a perfect destination for those wishing to play golf, particularly in the winter months. 

Thomas Himmel, a renowned German amateur champion, created the original design and layout just over 20 years ago after the land was acquired by local businessman and his long-held dream of turning it into a beautiful golf course became a reality.

The site was built around an ancient Palacio, which is now part of the greenkeeping compound, but it still commands gorgeous views over the estate. Over 2,000,000 tons of soil was moved in the creation of the course and several lakes and water features were built to enhance the golfers’ experience, providing both risk and reward for those playing the course. Over 1000 mature olive trees were planted to enhance the natural feel of the surroundings and to define the fairways and shape the golfer’s strategy for the course.  The course, which is gently undulating, is ideal for those that wish to walk but is also served by a fleet of club car golf buggies that are available for rent from golf reception.

Son Gual has a strong and exclusive membership that provides golfers with access to the course every day, whilst the club also welcomes visitors with green fee rates, which vary depending on the season, and cost up to €155 during the prime months. 

The practice facilities are excellent with a few covered bays and plenty of space to hit from outside, both from mats and from a turf area. There are plenty of places to sharpen up your short game with dedicated pitching areas, complete with practice bunkers and several putting greens to boot. There is a spare hole which is also available for practice most of the year and allows the club to take out a hole for specific maintenance if required, whilst continuing to offer 18 holes of quality golf. 

The clubhouse is beautifully designed with crisp, clean, cut lines and a luxurious and laid-back air of sophistication. Delicious food and drinks are available from the restaurant and bar, which sprawl out on to a large patio area with commanding views across the course and down towards the Mediterranean. There is also some accommodation on site, which can be utilised by prior arrangement for special customers only. 

The course has staged several important events since it opened in 2007 and is very well regarded by professionals and amateur golfers alike. The Son Gual Mallorca Senior Open was staged in 2009, with Ryder Cup star Mark James winning a play-off against Ireland’s Eamonn Darcy. The venue is a regular setting for major charity tournaments and is the perfect setting for any event.

There is a well-stocked pro’s shop and an excellent golf academy catering for golfers of all abilities. The academy has a particularly gruelling sports conditioning element – ideal for those really looking to maximise their distance.

There are 24 golf courses on the island of Majorca, eighteen of which offer 18 holes and almost all of them welcome visitors with open arms. The island is very prosperous and home to many affluent individuals looking to enjoy the climate and the beautiful island; a large proportion of these customers have holiday homes on Majorca and spend considerable time overseas with many coming from the colder, more northerly parts of Europe. It is not surprising, therefore, that whilst the island is busier in the summer, it’s courses are at their peak during the winter months. 

For more details, please visit: son-gual.com