Golf Tourism

Golf Tourism

THE BASQUE COUNTRY

ideal to enjoy in short stages.

There’s no room for more. Because it’s hard to find so many stunning places so close to one another. The Basque Country is the ideal place to enjoy numerous attractions in a short space of time: varied landscapes, pleasant climate, ancient culture, word-famous cuisine...

www.turismo.euskadi.eus

Two colours will accompany you on your journey through the Basque Country: the green of the incomparable setting of its mountains and valleys, and the blue of the sea. You will see that the Basque people have strong links with these natural environments: land and sea. Both have been determining factors in a lifestyle revealed by their idiosyncrasies: deeply rooted customs, a rich culture, traditional sports...

To better understand the nature of these people it is important that you immerse yourself in its traditions, exploring the fishing ports and the life of the countryside... On the coast you will see how the Cantabrian Sea has marked the personality of the neighbouring villages. You will also notice the difference between their inhabitants and the inland people. If you explore the history of the outstanding figures who have marked the personality of these communities you will discover how their maritime, industrial and agricultural character, always diverse and enterprising, has been bred.

Experiment, observe, then give way to the passion of taste.

And if you find the coastal and inland villages interesting, you will be no less fascinated by the three capitals. Bilbao will surprise you with its transformation from an industrial city to an avant garde metropolis bringing together the great contemporary international architects. San Sebastian, exquisite and unique, will seduce you with its beautiful and stately setting. Vitoria-Gasteiz will show you its rich heritage and why it sets a worldwide benchmark in urban planning.

Eating and drinking well is an affordable luxury in the Basque Country: local seasonal products in pintxo form with a good wine from the Rioja Alavesa, txakoli or cider. You will be in gourmet paradise! Enjoy!

Experiment, observe, then give way to the passion of taste.

www.turismo.euskadi.eus

The tourism brand which acts as an introduction to the tourism offer in the Basque Country: In the national market: EUSKADI. In the international market: BASQUE COUNTRY. Except in markets where the brand adapted to their language is considered more effective, as in the case of France, Germany and Italy. EUSKADI-PAYS BASQUE; BASKENLAND; PAESI BASCHI.

TOURISM BRANDS

BILBAO

Bilbao is the capital of Bizkaia, as well as a metropolis and economic and financial centre of the Basque Country. It is the largest city in the Basque Country (1,000,000 inhabitants) and is a university town.

The Ría (estuary) of Bilbao, the backbone of the metropolis: from the Old Quarter to the Bizkaia Bridge. It is also a city surrounded by small mountains, such as Mount Artxanda, and infrastructures, as for example the cruise port and the main airport in the region and the north of Spain: the international gateway.

Internationally renowned for its urban regeneration, Bilbao won the Nobel Prize for Cities in 2010: “Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize”: “Lee Kuan Yew World city prize”.

IN BILBAO, THE FOLLOWING ARE A MUST:

- Bizkaia Transporter Bridge, World Heritage Site.

- The City´s Museums: Guggenheim and Fine Arts (now one of the leading paintings and sculpture museums in Spain). The Alhóndiga, The Ethnographic and Basque History Museum, The Reproductions Museum, Athletic Football Club, Bullfighting, etc.

- Its cutting-edge and signature architecture: works by the world´s most famous contemporary

architects (Frank Gehry, Norman Foster, Isozaki, Zaha Hadid and Philippe Starck).

- Take a stroll: through the Old Quarter, and its famous 7 streets, through the Ensanche and up Mount Artxanda, which offers a panoramic view of the city and can be accessed by funicular (cable railway).

- Attend: conferences, trade fairs and meetings (BEC, Euskalduna, Guggenheim, etc.), festivals and cultural events, popular and traditional festivals such as bulls, Semana Grande (week of local festivities), Holy Week, etc.

- Shopping: at leading brand stores, as well as for original products in specialised shops. The Ribera Market is well worth a visit as is the traditional annual Santo Tomás market (21st December).

- Eating-Out: the whole range of Basque gastronomy: from pintxos (similar to Spanish tapas) to haute cuisine, not forgetting the traditional dishes.

- Stay: the best range of accommodation in the Basque Country.

Recommended for being closest to Bilbao are Donostia/San Sebastián, the Basque Coast, the Basque Mountains and Valleys and Rioja Alavesa.

DONOSTIA SAN SEBASTIÁN

Donostia/San Sebastián is the capital of Gipuzkoa and the major city of the Basque Coast (180,000 inhabitants). A city open to the sea, historically regarded the tourist capital of the Basque Country and is close to France.

It boasts one of the most beautiful bays in the world: La Concha, and three city beaches. San Sebastian is surrounded by mountains and viewpoints: Igeldo, Urgull, Ulia and the Isle of Santa Clara, lie on either side of the River Urumea.

IN SAN SEBASTIÁN, THE FOLLOWING ARE A MUST:

- The Old Quarter, its streets and iconic buildings.

- The romantic area of the city and its buildings with French influences.

- San Telmo Museum and the Aquarium.

- Take a stroll: walks and nature-related activities on foot and/or by bicycle along the promenade from the “Peine de los Vientos” sculptures to the Kursaal, up the urban mountains, their parks and gardens and enjoy the delightful pace of life by the sea or go surfing at its beaches.

Kursaal Palace, festivals and popular events, such as the Tamborrada (drum procession), Santo Tomás agricultural and gastronomic fair, the International Film Festival, La Concha Pennant, the hippodrome and the casino.

- Shopping: in the Ensanche and the Old Quarter.

- Eating out: the city of gastronomy par excellence: with more Michelin stars per square metre than any other in the world. Go for pintxos in the Old Quarter and other neighbourhoods of the city. Likewise sidrerías or cider houses are also a good choice.

- Accommodation: the city offers a wide range of hotels and some of the most iconic hotels in the Basque Country.

Recommended for being closest to Donostia/ San Sebastián, are Bilbao, the Basque Coast, the Basque Mountains and Valleys.

VITORIA GASTEIZ

Vitoria-Gasteiz is the capital of Alava, Vitoria is the administrative capital of the Basque Country (250,000 inhabitants). It also boasts the most important logistics centre in the north of Spain and is surrounded by nature.

The historic centre and original almond medieval shape is noteworthy, particularly the cathedral (in this 3 cathedral city) which although undergoing restoration remains open, noteworthy is the modern, well-planned, user-friendly and accessible urban planning, as well as the surrounding green belt. In 2012, it was the “European Green Capital”.

IN VITORIA, THE FOLLOWING ARE A MUST:

- Its old quarter and the so-called medieval “almond”, where the Cathedral of Santa Maria lies and its unique project called “Open for Work”, which inspired Ken Follett in his novel “World Without End”. Visit the 5 towers, the historic streets and the walls in this part of the city.

- Museums: Bibat, Artium, Fine Arts Ajuria Enea: Residence of the President of the Basque Country.

- The new, well-planned urban layout of VitoriaGasteiz.

- Take a stroll: through the “green belt”, with pathways, lakes and reservoirs integrated into nature that is full of flora and fauna, through the towns and villages of Vitoria (Estibaliz, Armentia, Foronda, etc.)

- Attend: its renowned jazz festival and local festivities, among which San Prudencio (28th April) and La Blanca (August) are particularly noteworthy.

- Things to do: nature sports (green belt), bird watching (lakes and reservoirs) and visit Ataria, the Interpretation Centre of the Salburua Wetlands.

- Shopping: At its confectioners, mainly in the pedestrian and commercial area and at the medieval “almond” market.

- Eating-Out: its sweets are famous for their quality. The wines and gastronomy of the Rioja Alavesa.

- Accommodation: at its new, fully accessible hotels. Recommended for being closest to Vitoria-Gasteiz are Rioja Alavesa and the Basque Mountains and Valleys.

THE BASQUE MOUNTAINS AND VALLEYS

The Basque Mountains and Valleys are our natural environment. The quiet Euskadi. They are a reflection of culture and traditions: Gernika and the General Assembly House, beacons, myths and legends of the Basque Country, the farmhouse and the way of life, rural sports.

The 9 natural parks and pilgrimage routes stand out: Camino de Santiago and Camino Ignaciano (St. James’s Way and Ignatian way), and religious cultural heritage in Loiola (house of Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus) and in Arantzazu, La Antigua, Zenarruza, Estibaliz and Urkiola.

IN THE BASQUE MOUNTAINS AND VALLEYS, THE FOLLOWING ARE A MUST:

- Its villages, rural traditions, lifestyle (30,000 farmhouses), heritage, rural sports, processions, etc.

- Its landscape that has been shaped by man: coalmines, salt mines, mines, foundries, quarries, etc.

- Museums: ecological, industrial, interpretation centres, etc.

- Take a stroll: through the accessible natural environment, through the conservation areas, up the mythical mountains (Gorbea, Anboto, Txindoki, Aizgorri, Ernio), through its valleys and regions, through its forests and rivers.

- Attend: Basque Pelota competitions, rural sports, processions, fairs and markets.

- Things to do: ecotourism activities, such as bird watching and geotourism, or visits to places of high environmental and heritage value. And more active and sporting activities such as hiking and cycling.

- Shopping: traditional gastronomy products (Eusko label), Idiazabal, Cider, Txakoli, tinned produce. Basque artisan products and ceramics.

- Eating-Out: traditional food (authentic, local products).

- Where to sleep: in rural accommodation and charming hotels, some of them with the ECOLABEL. From the Basque Mountains and Valleys, visit for example the Basque Coast, Rioja Alavesa, Bilbao, Donostia/ San Sebastián and Vitoria-Gasteiz.

THE BASQUE COAST

The Basque Coast is very diverse: there are fishing villages and seaside towns, with city beaches and other beaches that will blow you away. Marinas, marshes, estuaries lined by sea cliffs and an active sea.

Among its emblematic towns and areas, Hondarribia, Zarautz, Getxo and Lekeitio, La Concha bay in San Sebastian, San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, the Getaria Mouse, Bilbao and the Bizkaia Bridge, the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve and the Geopark stand out. The Basque Coast also boasts a rich maritime culture and many illustrious seafarers: Elcano, Cosme Damián de Churruca or Víctor Hugo.

ON THE BASQUE COAST, THE FOLLOWING ARE

A MUST:

- Its fishing villages, medieval towns and cosmopolitan cities giving you an insight into the way of life by the sea, based around fishing and the fishing heritage (fish markets, festivities, gastronomy).

- SPAs.

- Its natural corners: conservation areas and wetlands, viewpoints and watchtowers.

- Its network of museums on the Basque Coast (among others: the Museo Balenciaga in Getaria, the Bilbao Maritime Museum, the Fishermen’s Museum in Bermeo, the Oiasso Roman Museum in Irun, the Albaola Maritime Factory in Pasaia, and the Santa Catalina Lighthouse in Lekeitio, the Aquarium of Donostia,...).

- Walking: On the Basque coast nature´s green sweeps down to the sea: Take a stroll through Urdaibai, the Flysch route, along cliffs, through the painted forest of Oma, visit the wetlands and wild beaches or routes, such as the Camino de Santiago along the coast.

- Attend: sports competitions, some of which are international, such as surfing, sailing and other

unique sports like traineras (rowing boat races). Attend local festivities and fish markets.

- Practice: water sports (surfing, sailing, diving), trekking and activities in nature, bird watching and whale watching.

- Shopping: tinned fish, txakoli.

- Eating-Out: fish paired with txakoli. Excellent gastronomy.

- Accommodation: in charming rural houses, small family run hotels and campsites.

Given how close it is from the Basque Coast visit Bilbao and the Basque Mountains and Valleys.

RIOJA ALAVESA

Rioja Alavesa is a land of ancient vineyards, producing unique wine from its tempranillo Grape. Watered by the river Ebro and surrounded by Sierra of Cantabria, this region boasts the most spectacular wineries: such as Ysios, Baigorri, Riscal, Viñarreal-CVNE, with wine villages and family run wineries as well as a product with structure: Rioja Alavesa Wine Route.

IN RIOJA ALAVESA, THE FOLLOWING ARE A MUST:

- Its villages: Laguardia, Labraza, Elciego, Samaniego, Labastida.

- Its state of the art wineries.

- Its traditional family run wineries.

- The Balcony of Rioja.

- Its thousand year old heritage: the historic town Poblado de La Hoya, dolmens.

- Take a stroll: through vineyards and historic villages.

- Attend: traditional wine events and festivities. Tastings and sampling.

- Activities: trekking, bird watching, cycling, wine therapy.

- Shopping: Rioja Alavesa wines.

- Eating-Out: gastronomy and wine.

- Accommodation: in rural accommodation and at new charming hotels such as Marqués de Riscal.

From Rioja Alavesa because of how close it is, visit the Basque Mountains and Valleys, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Bilbao and Donostia- San Sebastián.

TOURISM PRODUCTS

The Basque Country boasts a variety of themed products which compete as a destination; it is a “multiproduct destination”.

Priority Basque tourism products are: touring, Food and wine, culture and MICE.

Likewise city breaks, nature and coast are considered to be top priority. Products that complete the diversity of the offer, both in terms of the landscape and the experiences Euskadi provides.

Golf Tourism

To play golf in Euskadi is to discover incredible landscapes and, in just a short time, enjoy a varied natural environment, an age-old culture and excellent cuisine.

There are few places in the world where in just 30 minutes or an hour, you can find 11 very different but special golf courses of the kind you will discover in Euskadi. A traveller standing in the geographical centre of Euskadi will take 30 minutes to reach the Zarautz links. Half an hour to be crossing the forest of Larrabea. 47 minutes until they are playing on the cliffs of Neguri, or 43 until they are taking shots among the beech woods and mountain farms surrounding Goiburu.

3 regions. 11 golf courses. Different and very varied landscapes for enjoying the sport and an incomparable destination.

Euskadi golf courses, a real find.

EUSKADI GOLF COURSES

Those who have visited the Basque golf courses know that, close to Bilbao, San Sebastián and VitoriaGasteiz, are magnificent designs where you can play differently.

Courses where you can play as you watch the sea and feel the breeze from the Cantabrian Sea, others which cross ancient forests between hills and farms filled with history. Courses where you take a swing in natural parks or on terrain recovered from former iron mines, or on land left barren for cultivation.

Designs by legendary golfers -Severiano Ballesteros, Txema Olazabal or Javier Arana- are waiting, not only for you to have fun playing, but also for you to enjoy stunning scenery and excellent cuisine.

CLOSE TO BILBAO

There are three magnificent golf courses near to Bilbao. The elegant Neguri, along the clifftops and by the Cantabrian Sea, Meaztegi, built over former iron mines and Uraburu, in the mountains.

ROYAL NEGURI GOLF CLUB

On the cliffs

Play with views of the Cantabrian Sea on one of the best designs by Javier Arana, just 25 minutes from Bilbao, at Punta Galea a spectacular estate by the sea and on the cliffs.

Neguri is an elegant 18-hole course, where, without a doubt, you will not only enjoy your game, but also the impressive unique landscapes. The first course takes you along the clifftops, with wide fairways and no trees. On the second course you enter the woods following a more technical route where your golfing skills will be required. The proximity to the sea means that when the wind blows, the course becomes significantly more complicated. As this is a private club, you need to notify the club of your intention to visit at least one day in advance, and visitor access is restricted from Friday to Sunday.

TIP

“On the greens, if in doubt about the drops, remember that the ball will always go towards the sea”.

THE HOLE

Hole number 3 ends with an impressive view of the sea and is also a challenging shot. A long par 4 that, when it is windy, local players say may become a par 6.

THE SELFIE

From the tee at number 4 the views are incredible. You can see almost all the course with the Cantabria Sea behind.

FOOD

No-one knows why, but the most traditional pintxo at Neguri is the “Ikurriña”. A simple but flavoursome pintxo; toasted bread spread with a delicious anchovy paste.

A SHOT AWAY

Climbing up to the iron walkway of the Suspension Bridge at a height of 50 metres, is quite a sight.

A World Heritage Site for its beauty, aesthetics and usefulness, the bridge was built in the 19th century by a pupil of Eiffel, and continues to be fully operational. Astonishing views of the mouth of the estuary as it flows into the Cantabrian Sea.

The Old Port of Algorta, with an enjoyable seafaring atmosphere, is perfect for a endless aperitif or for trying traditional Basque dishes. The kalimotxo, a cocktail of red wine and Coca-Cola with plenty of ice, drunk by young Basques at celebrations, was invented in this former fishing harbour.

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Ortuella

MEAZTEGI GOLF

Play across the former iron mines

Have you ever played on a course built over former iron mines? You can find this unique experience at Meaztegi Golf.

As part of Bizkaia Provincial Council’s Plan to restore the former mines, the great Severiano Ballesteros designed this 18-hole course with par 72 and a 9-hole pitch and putt course to convert the barren land into a veritable orchard. The course, built in 2005, has gained in flora and fauna, becoming a beautiful course in the mountains but from where it is possible to spot the sea at some holes.

“Players with a good long game are at an advantage in Meaztegi. Those who don’t have such a strong drive will have to choose a conservative shot and not take too many risks”.

THE HOLE

Number 12 is a par 5 with three platforms. Strikers, with a good drive, can opt to get there in two. The rest should aim for the second platform with their second shot and take the green from there.

THE SELFIE

At hole 11 the whole course is at your feet, with the sea in the distance.

FOOD

A good chunk of bonito tuna is the best companion to a beer or glass of wine in Meaztgei. If you want to wait until lunch, do not miss the cod which is really good here.

A SHOT AWAY

Loizaga Tower, a medieval fortress with moat, drawbridge and walls that guard the only Rolls-Royce collection in Europe with all the models. This classic and vintage car museum is located in a castle in the heart of nature just 30 km from Bilbao.

Pozalagua Cave, a hypnotic spot that hides the largest concentration of eccentric stalactites in the world and can be visited in the dark, with only a head torch, in the Valley of Karrantza.

Ortuella MEAZTEGI GOLF

CONTACT

Ctra. Triano-La Arboleda s/n

48530 Ortuella (Bizkaia)

Tel. 946 364 370

www.meaztegigolf.eus

recepcion@meaztegigolf.eus

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Galdakao URABURU GOLF

Take a class with Rahm’s brother Splendid course in the heart of Ganguren Mountain, just over 20 minutes from Bilbao where Eriz Rahm, Jon’s older brother, is an instructor. The first thing to make an impression when you arrive at Uraburu is the club house with views of one of the most spectacular mountains landscapes of Bizkaia from the terrace. José Mª Olazabal’s design has maintained the natural terrain, making each hole different to the one before so that players will need all their golf clubs. At this 18-hole par 71 course, the golfer needs to take a precise shot from the tee and exercise skill on the greens which take the ball well but are very fast.

“Uraburu is a course requiring a conservative strategy and not to seek too much distance. Accept that maybe it will take 3 to get there in a par 4”.

THE HOLE

Hole 16 is a hole with a wide drive slope, but where the second shot needs to be accurate as it goes over a lake. The green is tricky and will make you think hard about every putt.

THE SELFIE

The view from the club house is magnificent, but the scenery from the tee at hole 2 does not come far behind.

FOOD

Tortilla with black pudding as an appetiser and for lunch, do not miss the Lezama tomato with tuna belly or the delicious vegetables from Larrabetzu.

A SHOT AWAY

Urdaibai Reserve, an extraordinarily beautiful natural space including Mundaka, Gernika, Laga and Laida beaches and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. Declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Michelin Stars for all tastes. Eneko Atxa’s Azurmendi restaurant, awarded three stars, represents creation, while Boroa farmhouse, with one star and a spectacular terrace, represents tradition. There are 23 restaurants with Michelin stars throughout Euskadi.

info@uraburugolf.com

18 HOLES

CLOSE TO VITORIA-GASTEIZ AND RIOJA ALAVESA

Three golf courses can be found very close to VitoriaGasteiz - Larrabea, Zuia and Jundiz- while Izki Golf lies in the Montaña Alavesa region, in a natural park close to Rioja Alavesa.

Legutiano LARRABEA GOLF CLUB

Jon Rahm’s local club

Walk around the holes where Jon Rahm took his first shots, in a beautiful setting surrounded by age-old trees, just 15 minutes from the capital of Euskadi.

Larrabea is a design by the legendary Pepe Gancedo where each hole is different and the obstacles are magnificently positioned to make the player think closely about their strategy. Wide fairways, entertaining greens and marvellous views, such as the arrival at the magnificent club house, a stately home built at the end of the 19th century, walking among the trees surrounding hole 18.

TIP

“Before each hole, think closely about how to play it. Once in the final metres, concentrate to ensure a good approach and putt because the greens are very fast”.

THE HOLE

Hole 15 is a not too long par 3, but between the tee and the flagstick is a lake which has swallowed many balls. To the right of the green is a penalty area and to the left a bunker. All these obstacles make number 15 a great hole.

THE SELFIE

There are endless spectacular spots but most people go for the views from hole 2.

FOOD

To go with your beer, do not miss the tuna pintxo with anchovy or the potato tortilla. The free-range fried eggs from the farmyard where the chef at Larrabea keeps their hens are delicious.

A SHOT AWAY

Ullibarri-Gamboa reservoir, a huge lake with islands. Classified as one of the most important wetlands in Euskadi, providing shelter to the grey heron and the osprey, it has several beautiful routes by bike, by kayak or on foot.

Visit the old cathedral of Vitoria like Ken Follett. Wander around the parapet walkway, go down to the underground crypt, climb the tower and enjoy the views of the entire medieval city.

Legutiano LARRABEA GOLF CLUB

CONTACT

Crta. Landa S/N 01170 Legutiano (Araba/Álava)

Tel. 945 465 485

www.larrabea.com

info@larrabea.com

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Altube

ZUIA GOLF CLUB

In Gorbeia Natural Park

Playing at Zuia is like playing between mountains, on a completely flat course that any player would like, but perfect for mid-handicappers and seniors.

15 minutes from Vitoria-Gasteiz and just over half an hour from Bilbao, in the foothills of Gorbeia Natural Park, Zuia is a 9-hole par 70 course. A comfortable course, not too long, where you will have to follow the tradition of the 9th hole. All the games come to an end on arrival at the 9th hole green, and before starting a second round, have a quick snack in the café at the club house. Then, carry on enjoying Zuia which is open to anyone wanting to start playing golf, take classes or play these 9 holes, tended like a private garden.

TIP

“Those with a low handicap should put their drive away. Mid- and high-handicap players should look for precision rather than distance. The pines, beech trees and oak trees are beautiful but they may make life complicated if you go into the woods”.

THE HOLE

The par 5 of the 9th hole is perhaps the most complete. Dog-leg to the left towards a beautiful fairway among trees leading to a narrow green protected by a bunker.

THE SELFIE

The 2nd shot at hole 4 where you have to clear the water before reaching a downward-sloping green.

FOOD

Huge pintxos, in particular tempura piparras and tortilla with chorizo. In Niurka’s kitchen there are many excellent dishes, although of special note are the cod and beans, the lobster rice or the beef cheeks.

A SHOT AWAY

The Nervión Falls, the biggest waterfall in the Iberian peninsula. Water falling -270 metres- down the rocky crags of Delika Canyon. Beech woods and perfect views for a top hiker.

Quejana Palace with its tower and convent hidden in the Valley of Ayala, comes as a surprise to most. In exquisite taste, it contains the most beautiful funeral site in Euskadi. Nearby is the Hotel Arcos de Quejana wine cellar with a wine steward for wine tastings.

Altube ZUIA GOLF CLUB

CONTACT

01139 Altube. (Araba/Álava)

Tel. 945 430 922

www.zuiagolf.com

zuiagolf@zuiagolf.com

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Vitoria-Gasteiz JUNDIZ GOLF

To improve your golf

A few steps from the capital of Euskadi is Jundiz Golf, a pitch and putt course where you will find the best golf training centre in Euskadi. It has a driving range with 36 bays, with lighting to be able to play at night.

The course has 9 par 3 holes perfect for players of any level. Beginners can make their first strikes in a friendly environment. Those who already play will find the perfect place for improving their short game at Jundiz. In addition to the course, Jundiz Golf has all the technical elements for analysing and improving your swing.

TIP

“ If in doubt, always use the shortest club because at Jundiz the hazard is usually behind the green. If you chip with skill, you won’t do many on this course in Vitoria-Gasteiz”.

THE HOLE

Number 3 is a spectacular hole where there are hazards on the left, on the right and at the back. Check the wind before you start to play, because it might make it even more difficult to get your ball to the green.

THE SELFIE

Hole number 1 is definitely the most photographed at Jundiz. Not only because you can see almost all the course, but also because, for many players, it is the first hole they have ever played in their life.

FOOD

There is a splendid café at Jundiz Golf, but just a minute’s walk away are two restaurants where you have an excellent choice from either the menu of the day or from the a la carte menu.

A SHOT AWAY

A stroll around the capital of Euskadi. Climb up to the medieval quarter of Vitoria-Gasteiz via San Miguel steps from the Virgen Blanca and discover beautiful Machete Square with its terraces and grill houses. The medieval tour has barely begun.

The Market and its ‘gastrobars’ for buying and sampling typical Basque produce: Idiazabal cheese, Añana salt, the Alavesa pinto bean, black truffles, Lumagorri chicken or wine from Rioja Alavesa. Where you can find the lively everyday life of Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Vitoria-Gasteiz JUNDIZ GOLF

CONTACT

C/ Paduleta 30 01015 Vitoria-Gasteiz (Araba/Álava)

Tel. 945 357 888

www.golfjundiz.com

info@golfjundiz.com

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IZKI GOLF

Seve’s best design in a Natural Park

Would you like to play on the course that Severiano Ballesteros considers his best design in Spain? This is possible at just over half an hour from Vitoria-Gasteiz and surrounded by the vineyards of Rioja Alavesa. Izki golf, in Urturi, is a huge course in Izki Natural Park, in a forest of oak and holly.

Regular players here say that Izki has a special charm, and many holes are just for enjoying the scenery, with a silence that allows you to listen to every sound in nature. Wide fairways and generous greens, although you need to think carefully from where you are going to attack the fairways and flagsticks on some holes. The course has magnificent drainage systems, guaranteeing that even with heavy rain, it is possible to play without problem.

TIP

“The mid-handicap player should not be over confident. Don’t think too hard on the greens; go with the first impression because there are fewer drops than you think”.

THE HOLE

Undoubtedly, one of the landmark holes at Izki is number 13, a short and narrow downwards par 4 with two platforms where you can place the ball for the second or even third strike. A not too big green surrounded by trees.

THE SELFIE

The views from the green of hole 3 are impressive: on one side Izki Natural Park and on the other, the mountains of Cantabria.

FOOD

Izki restaurant is run by Carlos, an Argentinian who knows all about grills. The Argentinian meat and Creole chorizo are in a league of their own but, if you have time, you must try the suckling lamb.

A SHOT AWAY

The family-run wineries of Rioja Alavesa are a delight. The dedication put into looking after the estates and the fineness of the wines are evident. Accommodation: in palaces, stately homes or spectacular hotels like the one designed by Frank Gehry.

Laguardia, the most beautiful walled city. With no cars, and with its underground cellars within the walls and cobbled streets, it seems like a scene from a fairy tale. It is possible to visit the 14th century Casa de la Primicia, the oldest civil building in Laguardia, and you can even eat there as it is currently home to the Casa Primicia Winery.

Urturi IZKI GOLF

CONTACT

C/ Arriba s/n - 01119

Urturi (Araba/Álava)

Tel. 945 378 262

www.izkigolf.eus

recepcion@izkigolf.eus

18 HOLES

TROLLEY FOR HIRE

COURSE PAR 72

SHOP

5 HOLES PITCH&PUTT DRIVING RANGE & PUTTING GREEN

RESTAURANT

CAFETERIA

BIZKAIA

BUGGIES FOR HIRE

WI-FI

GIPUZKOA

CLUBS FOR HIRE

ARABA

CLOSE TO DONOSTIA/SAN SEBASTIÁN

Close to San Sebastián are four golf courses: the marvellous Jaizkibel in Hondarribia, Zarautz the only links in Euskadi and in the heart of the mountains, Basozabal and Goiburu.

San Sebastián SAN SEBASTIÁN BASOZABAL NEW ROYAL GOLF CLUB

Where Olazabal plays every day

Have you ever imagined yourself hitting balls on a driving range next to Txema Olazabal? This could happen to you at the Basozabal Royal Golf Club, just 15 minutes from San Sebastián on a course set in the mountains from where you can see the Aiako Harriak Natural Park or Jaizkibel.

The course has two clearly defined sections: the first nine holes are very fast, playing with the hilly terrain and you need to be accurate on the greens. In the second nine, the fairways are longer and the greens are more welcoming. Txema Olazabal, winner of two Masters in Augusta, trains at this course and helps many of the young players who are trying to become professional golfers. But a casual encounter with the Master is not the only good thing you will find on this impressive course in San Sebastián. Although located in a rainy area, you can play at Basozabal almost every day of the year. The course has magnificent drainage systems and can cope with rainfall of over 100 litres per day. The 18 holes pose a challenge to players of any level. A design by the great Olazabal which will force you to concentrate hard, but where you are also guaranteed fun.

“You should do every thing possible not to go off the fairway. It’s best to stay short because it’s important to keep your ball in the short cropped grass”.

THE HOLE

Number 12 is one of those that you remember from the first time you play as the tee shot is uphill over a precipice, falling into a dogleg to the left. The narrow fairway leads to a long green protected by a bunker on the left.

THE SELFIE

The view from the terrace of the club house is unbeatable.

FOOD

Cider from Barkaiztegi -made right by here- with a delicious pintxo of fresh squid. The house speciality is the charcoal grill. Meat and fish prepared by Orio and Getaria on the grill and served with a sauce. In particular the turbot and the T-bone steak.

Astigarraga cider houses with hundreds of years of tradition. At their farms they produce natural cider with the Basque Certificate of Origin -Euskal Sagardoa- and in unspoilt surroundings you can enjoy the typical menu of steak, cod omelette and Idiazabal cheese, with quince or walnuts.

Chillida Leku, perhaps one of the most magical sites in Euskadi where art blends into nature. 40 steel and granite sculptures by the great Basque sculptor Eduardo Chillida, are scattered across the marvellous garden of the estate. Try some cheesecake or the homemade cod fritters on the terrace of the museum café for an extraordinary moment.

San Sebastián SAN SEBASTIÁN BASOZABAL

NEW ROYAL GOLF CLUB

CONTACT

Camino de Goyaz-Txiki 41

20014 Donostia/San Sebastián (Gipuzkoa)

Tel. 943 472 736

www.golfbasozabal.com

secretaria@golfbasozabal.com

18 HOLES

SHOP

COURSE PAR 72

RESTAURANT

DRIVING RANGE & PUTTING GREEN

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CAFETERIA CRÈCHE

CLUBS FOR HIRE

WI-FI

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Zarautz

ZARAUZ ROYAL GOLF CLUB

Sea and surf

Did you know that the only real links in all Spain are in Zarautz? This extraordinary course is in the centre of the surfing town in amongst more than 2.5 kilometres of sand dunes.

Alongside holes 1 and 2, a walkway allows you to take a stroll as you enjoy the views of the sea and the surfers as well as the fairways and greens of this royal golf club in Gipuzkoa. Designed in 1916 with 9 holes, par 68, it blends in perfectly with the dunes and sandy terrain. Players should be aware that, on this course, the wind is a decisive factor that may lead you to play one way on the first nine, and another on the second round. However, Zarautz is a comfortable course where the sea breeze and fantastic views will more than make up for a poor scorecard. The Club House shop sells interesting souvenirs; golfing cufflinks, pins and pendants. They are handmade by a member of the club.

“Try to stay on the right because, on the whole, the hazards at RCG Zarautz are on the left. Left-handers should be careful with their slice”.

THE HOLE

Hole 3 is a par 3 with a length of 175 metres alongside the beach with an out-of-bounds zone all along the left side and on the right of the green. The tee shot is a tight one, if you don’t get it on the green, it will be difficult to make par.

THE SELFIE

The view of the sea is incredible from many places, but perhaps the green of hole 5 is the most symbolic.

FOOD

Have a snack, admiring the views from the terrace overlooking the sea. Regulars at Zarautz speak highly of the pintxo with egg mayonnaise, anchovy and prawns on fried bread. If you decide to stay for lunch, don’t miss the breaded hake or the San Jacobo.

A SHOT AWAY

Balenciaga Museum with the legacy and creations of couturier Cristóbal Balenciaga, in his home town of Getaria, one of the most charming villages on the Basque Coast, and also the birthplace of the famous navigator, Juan Sebastián Elcano.

Grilled turbot and bream at grill houses in the area where the grills are filled with fresh fish from the Cantabrian Sea. At the Elkano restaurant, Michelin starred, in Getaria, the tribute is fitting. Accompany it with a glass of txakoli. This is the region where this special white wine from the Basque Country is grown and prepared.

Zarautz ZARAUZ ROYAL GOLF CLUB

CONTACT

Lauaxeta Kalea 7

20800 Zarautz (Gipuzkoa)

Tel. 943 830 145

www.golfzarauz.com

info@golfzarauz.com

9 HOLES

SHOP

BIZKAIA

COURSE PAR 68

RESTAURANT

DRIVING RANGE & PUTTING GREEN

CAFETERIA

ARABA

CLUBS FOR HIRE

CHILDREN’S CLUB

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Hondarribia

SAN SEBASTIAN ROYAL GOLF CLUB

Sublime and ahead of its time

What is the secret that makes a golf course became a cradle for champions? To find out, you will have to visit San Sebastián Royal Golf Club, a special place where the facilities are located in beautiful listed buildings.

Txema Olazabal, the Arruti and Tania Elosegui, are just some of the champions who started playing at Jaizkibel. The 18 holes course was designed by Pierre Hirigoyen in the town of Hondarribia, very close to the French border. The course is magnificently adapted to the ancient trees and hilly terrain, with the result that at times the ball is higher or lower than your feet. On this course, you will get your exercise, enjoy yourself, use all the clubs in your bag and, on walking along the fairway of hole 18, be captivated by the views of the majestic farmhouse in which the club house is located.

“Although most of the fairways are wide, precision is of importance as you are constantly surrounded by oak trees. Even so, those that go straight should get out their drive in all the par 4 and 5, except at number 1”.

THE HOLE

Hole 5 is almost 400 metres, par 4 with the magnificent Aiako Harriak in the background. Trees on both sides of a hole where, for the first two shots, you should lean towards the left.

THE SELFIE

It would be unusual to find anyone, who playing for the first time at Jaizkibel, does not take their photo outside the club house with the flower beds filled with seasonal flowers and an oval pool of the sort that are no longer made.

FOOD

An excellent plan is an aperitif on the terrace or a piece of breaded hake with mayonnaise and red peppers.

A SHOT AWAY

The pintxos in Hondarribia are exclusive and the counters in its bars have been considered the absolute best for pintxos in Euskadi for almost half a century. El Gran Sol bar has received the most awards, but there are many others offering exquisite bites.

The medieval quarter and the city walls with cobbled streets, beautiful spots and stately homes. Up high, the Castle of Carlos V crowns Hondarribia, offering a beautiful view across the Bay.

Hondarribia SAN SEBASTIAN ROYAL GOLF CLUB

Chalet Borda-Gain - Barrio Jaizubia

20280 Hondarribia (Gipuzkoa) Tel. 943 616 845

www.golfsansebastian.com

rgcss@golfsansebastian.com

18 HOLES

RESTAURANT

COURSE PAR 71

CAFETERIA

DRIVING RANGE & PUTTING GREEN

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TENNIS/PADDLE TENNIS CRÈCHE

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Andoain GOIBURU

Following the footsteps of “El Pirata” among ancient oak and beech trees

This is the course where “El Pirata” Adrián Otaegui started playing, just 8 kilometres from San Sebastián with a 9-hole, par 70 course. Like all the golf courses designed by José Mª Olazabal, it is technical and entertaining.

At Goiburu the player encounters fairways and fast greens, which adapt to the hills and dips of the estate. Several holes hide extraordinary landscapes among the ancient oaks and beech trees which surround this course in Gipuzkoa. On finishing the game, it is not only a good meal that awaits you; at the shop in the Club House you can buy a number of different items bearing the “Peña El Pirata” logo.

“Watch your stance before striking. The undulating terrain means that sometimes the ball will be above or below your feet”.

THE HOLE

Hole 6, par 4 where, the tee shot has to cross the water and then climb a steep slope. Those with a long drive may be able to get the ball straight up, but the rest will have to make the climb on their second shot.

THE SELFIE

Take a photo before the second shot at hole 7 with views of the mountains.

FOOD

The arrival at the pretty club house building is just the prelude to what you’ll find inside: delicious pintxos such as the chicken salad, or bonito tuna in onions with anchovy and chilli. Or main dishes such the slow cooked suckling pig or the grilled swordfish.

A SHOT AWAY

Hondalea on the Isle of Santa Clara where the sculptor Cristina Iglesias has completed an installation which transforms the inside of the lighthouse into a marvellous sculptural environment, where the water flows to the rhythm of the tides. It is said to be the new landmark of San Sebastián.

The T-bone steak from Tolosa. This is the origin and where to find specialist steak grills in Euskadi. Make your way to the former capital of Gipuzkoa and visit one of the grill houses, a great plan.

Andoain GOIBURU

THE TOP 10 ASSETS OF THE BASQUE COUNTRY

BILBAO

Internationally recognised architectural benchmark because the strength of its avant-garde style is based on integration and respect for its industrial history.

VITORIA-GASTEIZ

Location of the Basque Parliament and capital of Basque Country, Vitoria-Gasteiz is a green city, filled with natural spaces and located very close to Rioja Alavesa, a world renown wine-tourism enclave.

DONOSTIA / SAN SEBASTIÁN

One of the most romantic cities in the world, renowned for its beauty and its gastronomy.

URDAIBAI

An extraordinarily beautiful and varied natural landscape, which is the reason why it was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1984.

GAZTELUGATXE

Classified as a protected Biotype, this magical small island is one of the essential corners of the Basque Coast and one of the locations where the TV show “Game of Thrones” was filmed.

GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF GERNIKA

One of the oldest parliaments in Europe. The Gernika tree is considered a main symbol of Basque identity.

BIZKAIA BRIDGE

Also known as the “Suspension Bridge”, Bizkaia Bridge is an architectural jewel that reflects the industrial and marine nature of Euskadi. World Heritage. UNESCO 2007.

LAGUARDIA

Capital of Rioja Alavesa, Laguardia stands vigilant upon a hill, and surrounded by vineyards.

CRISTOBAL BALENCIAGA MUSEUM

Coco Chanel said that Balenciaga was the only and authentic courtier (dressmaker).

LOIOLA SANCTUARY

Place of birth of San Ignacio (Iñigo de Loyola), one of the most notable Basque personalities in history and founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), a denomination that has spread throughout the entire world.

CITY TRANSPORTATION

PUBLIC CITY TRANSPORTATION

BILBAO

· City bus (Bilbobus).

· Tram (Euskotren).

· Underground.

DONOSTIA/SAN SEBASTIÁN

· City bus (Dbus).

VITORIA-GASTEIZ

· City bus.

· Tram (Euskotren).

PUBLIC INTERCITY TRANSPORTATION

· Alavabus.

· Bizkaibus.

· Lurraldebus.

· Euskotren.

· Renfe.