Golf holidays in Madrid

Madrid is one of Europe’s most underrated golf destinations, offering a superb mix of championship layouts, world-class design, and year-round playability. Set against a backdrop of rolling countryside and mountain views, the Spanish capital is home to a growing collection of elite courses, many designed by some of golf’s most iconic figures.

From tour-level championship venues to inclusive national facilities, Madrid offers a diverse and exciting golf experience for players of all abilities.

Club de Golf Retamares

Location: Madrid, Spain | Course type: Parkland | Par: 72 | Designer: José María Olazábal | Year opened: 1993

Designed by Ryder Cup legend José María Olazábal, Club de Golf Retamares is one of Madrid’s standout modern layouts. Set across expansive rolling terrain, the course features wide fairways, elevated tee shots, and eight lakes that come into play throughout the round. Its thoughtful design rewards strategy over power, while remaining playable for all abilities. Retamares has also hosted multiple professional events, including Ladies European Tour tournaments, underlining its championship credentials.

Suitable for: Mid-to-low handicap golfers, golf groups, and players who enjoy strategic course design with strong championship character. Higher handicappers can still enjoy the layout thanks to its generous fairways and multiple tee options.

Distance from Madrid city centre: Approximately 30–35 minutes by car.

Golf Santander

Location: Boadilla del Monte, Madrid, Spain | Course type: Championship Parkland | Par: 72 | Designer: Rees Jones & Severiano Ballesteros | Year opened: 2005

Widely regarded as one of the finest courses in Spain, Golf Santander is a true championship test. Measuring close to 7,500 yards, it ranks among the longest courses in Europe and demands precision, power, and intelligent course management. Immaculate conditioning, expansive water hazards, and elite practice facilities elevate the experience, while its proximity to central Madrid makes it a must-play for serious golfers.

Suitable for: Experienced golfers, low handicappers, and players seeking a tour-level challenge. Its excellent practice facilities also make it ideal for golf academies and dedicated golf trips.

Distance from Madrid city centre: Approximately 25–30 minutes by car.

Centro Nacional de Golf

Location: Madrid, Spain | Course type: Parkland (links-style influences) | Par: 72 | Designer: José María Olazábal | Year opened: 2005

As the home of the Royal Spanish Golf Federation, Centro Nacional de Golf is one of the most important and accessible courses in Spain. The layout features generous fairways, strategic bunkering, and large greens, offering a balance between playability and challenge. Its open design creates a links-like feel, particularly in windy conditions, making it a unique test within an inland setting. Its central location allows golfers to combine a round with Madrid’s cultural highlights.

Suitable for: All abilities, including beginners, mixed golf groups, and golfers looking for a relaxed but high-quality round close to the city. It’s particularly well suited to weekend breaks and city-based golf holidays.

Distance from Madrid city centre: Approximately 10–15 minutes by car.

You can read about our experience playing Madrid's best courses here.

One of the standout factors is the concentration of elite courses within close proximity. Venues like Golf Santander, Club de Golf Retamares, and Centro Nacional de Golf are all within a 20-30 minute radius of the city centre, meaning you can play world-class golf in the morning and be enjoying tapas in Plaza Mayor by the afternoon.

The design pedigree is another major draw. Courses in Madrid are shaped by legends such as José María Olazábal and Seve Ballesteros, offering layouts that prioritise strategy, variety, and playability. Combined with immaculately maintained conditioning, these courses provide a premium experience without the crowds often found in more established golf regions.