La Manga Golf Club, Murcia Golf Courses

South Course

Originally designed by Robert Putman and modified by Arnold Palmer, the South Course has undergone a complete refurbishment over the last couple of years. The main changes include more water hazards, tree plantation and green alterations and has seen it become much more of a challenge to the discerning golfer. The course is located in the centre of the valley and features wide palm-fringed fairways, a number of strategically positioned bunkers and plenty of cunning water hazards. The front nine is probably the tougher, with two par 3s measuring over 215 yards and some daunting par 4s, many of which demand accurate driving between lakes and bunkers.

North Course

The North Course is slightly shorter than the South but has tighter fairways and larger greens. This undulating course is positioned between palm trees, lakes and barrancas (natural gullies) with precision rather than length required to score well. Built to USGA specification, the amount of movement in the greens adds to the challenge, especially the short par 3 2nd, which has three different tiers.

West Course

The West Course requires a different approach to the other golf courses; the fairways are narrow and gullies are deceptively placed to catch golfers out. The blind spots and frequency of elevation changes makes this an ideal challenge for more tactical golfers. The front 9 holes require accurate drives due to the tight fairways, but this is a different story on the back nine; the fairways are more open but more hilly. To add to the excitement, the views as you play are magnificent and the par 3s are truly memorable. The 18th hole is a great finish to the golf course, with a highly elevated tee allowing great views but the wind has a greater influence in your final score.