Destination Guide: NORTHERN SPAIN - GOLF IN SEVE COUNTRY

DESTINATION GUIDE

GOLF IN

SEVE COUNTRY YOUR GUIDE TO GREAT GOLF IN NORTHERN SPAIN

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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ISSUE 8

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Discover the natural splendour of northern Spain and some really memorable courses. This is Seve Ballesteros country, with his home course at Pedrena and his design input at Santa Maria to the west and Izki in La Rioja.

FOLLOW IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE

LEGEND

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TRAVEL GUIDE NORTHERN SPAIN

Pedrena Golf Club

Santander coast

Historic Santander

S

eve Ballesteros was a well known figure back home in PedreĂąa, a fishing village near Santander in northern Spain, where the local sporting passion was rowing.

His father was a talented oarsman but the Ballesteros family sport was golf. Actually it was the family business. His uncle, RamĂłn Sota, was an outstanding professional, good enough to play in the 1965 Masters and to finish sixth, while Seve's brothers, Vicente, Baldomero and Manuel, were all golf pros. Seve was the baby and it was Manuel who first cut down a three-iron and gave it to him as a toddler.

The hours he then spent on the beach with this club, often hitting pebbles rather than balls, helped create the magical short game that would later propel him into a global golf star and in turn a legend of the game.

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EXPLORE THE REGIONS OF

NORTHERN SPAIN

More and more Brits are discovering the natural splendour of Northern Spain and here you'll find some memorable courses.

This is Seve Ballesteros country, with his home course at Pedreña and his design input at Santa Maria to the west and Izki in La Rioja - in this region there are also courses at Logroño and Santo Domingo.

To the west in Asturias, the courses at Llanes, Llorea, Castello and La Barganiza provide parkland settings with stunning backdrops.

CANTABRIA

ASTURIAS

Cantabria is on the shores of the Cantabrian Sea. It is birthplace of one of the best golfers of all time, Severiano Ballesteros.

Between the Cantabrian sea and the spectacular Picos de Europa National Park, you will find Asturias.

Discover the place where this legend made his first strokes. It is not only on the green that you will have a great time.

This region offers a host of attractions and things to do, one of which is golf.

You can also discover a region of spectacular landscapes, with some of northern Spain's most beautiful beaches, and natural and cultural riches that will captivate your from the moment you arrive. There are many courses to choose from suitable for all levels: from courses that are a real challenge for professionals, to gentler ones, ideal for beginners. The majority have wonderful sea views, making the game even more attractive, if that is possible.

Clustered around a small number of towns and villages there are many different courses to be found. More and more people are coming to Asturias to play golf every year.

In addition to the varied, spectacular landscapes of the region, there are other attractive factors, such as the proximity of the different courses, the good communications between Oviedo and Gijón, where most of the clubs are to be found.

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BASQUE COUNTRY (PAIS VASCO)

This region offers you eleven first-class courses where you can have fun, improve your strokes or even learn how to play golf from scratch, all against a backdrop of sea views, or while enjoying the unique natural attractions of Green Spain.

The Basque Country is synonymous with culture, among other things thanks to the avant-garde Guggenheim Bilbao museum and to the San Sebastián International Film Festival, and to its natural attractions, with its peaceful beach and the lush forests of Green Spain. Two additional reasons why this region is a choice destination for golfers.

NAVARRE Play on first-rate courses and savour some of the finest, most varied cuisine in Spain.

Navarre’s wine-tourism route will also introduce you to Navarre wines - which are becoming ever more prestigious. Close to the capital of the Region of Navarre, Pamplona, you will find various 18-hole golf courses. Just 4 kilometres from the city is the Castillo de Gorraiz Golf Club, with modern facilities that adapt to the needs of all kinds of players.

From Pamplona, it is just 12 kilometres to the Señorío de Zuasti Club. This golf course is set around a 16th-century palace.

LA RIOJA La Rioja is Spain’s smallest region. However, it is not easy to find in such small area — just over five thousand square kilometres — such a diversity of landscapes, art, history and traditions.

This land has earned worldwide fame thanks to one of its products, whose finely crafted quality has achieved universal renown —wine.

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THE

PLAYLIST CANTABRIA • PAIS VASCO • NAVARRE • ASTRURIAS LA RIOJA IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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CANTABRIA GOLF JUST A STONE’S THROW FROM THE BEACH

GOLF SANTA MARINA LA REVILLA 18 holes - Par 71, 6591yards

Designed by Seve Ballesteros, this is an absolute stunner of a course. Sandwiched between the sea and mountains, it is pretty tough but hugely enjoyable.

With elevated tees, loads of water and plenty of tricky dog-legs to negotiate, you should enjoy the challenge.

And, however many balls you’ve lost, you’ll also enjoy the stunning 16th century clubhouse after your round.

Supplements apply to play on Sat, Sun & Spanish public holidays. Course not available over Easter or from 1/8-31/8.

Our opinion: A great course with a spectacular 18th. Anyone hitting the green in 3 has done well.

Favourite Hole: 18th.

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REAL CLUB DE GOLF PEDREĂ‘A 18 holes - Par 70, 6340yds

9 holes - Par 36, 2920yds

This course was designed by Harry Colt and enjoys a spectacular location on a small peninsula jutting into the Bay of Santander.

It is also where Seve Ballesteros learnt to hone his remarkable skills and is in fact a wonderful experience and a treat not to be missed!

It is by no means a long course but is definitely a difficult, testing one.

Quite hilly with an abundance of trees and rough, every golfer will enjoy the challenge on what is one of the top quality courses in this region.

Our opinion: An absolute must if you are a Seve fan - this is where it all started.

Favourite Hole: 4th.

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PAIS VASCO

GOLF IN THE BASQUE COUNTRY

REAL SOCIEDAD DE GOLF DE NEGURI GETXO, PUNTA GALEA 18 holes - Par 72, 6900yds

Neguri, or Real Sociedad de Golf de Neguri to give the club its full title was founded back in 1911, then 45 years later it moved to the current location north west of Bilbao.

The course is laid out with 2 loops of 9 holes both returning to the clubhouse. Javier Arana a member designed the course which can be stretched to 6900 yards; the club have hosted several prestigious amateur events and the 1968 Spanish Open.

Our opinion: Limited access as the club is very private however a true test.

Favourite hole: The 14th a par 3 which plays uphill.

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REAL GOLF CLUB DE GOLF DE SAN SEBASTIAN PAIS VASCO Real Golf Club de Golf de San Sebastian was founded in 1910 and moved to its present location in the mid 1960’s. The course enjoys some fantastic views of the Basque Pyrenees and has a number of feature holes such as 6th and 10th par 4’s both played uphill. The club boasts a major Champion as a member in twice Masters Winner Jose Maria Olazabal who won in 1994 and 1999.

Our opinion: A must play if you get the chance.

Favourite hole: The 5th Par 4 downhill.

LAUKARIZ COUNTRY CLUB BILBAO, PAIS VASCO 27 holes - Par72/71, 6708yds

Laukariz Country Club was established in the mid – 1970’s with a wide range of facilities including swimming, tennis and golf. The 18 hole course was designed by American Robert Putman who was also responsible for the North and South courses at La Manga.

The club added a further 9 holes in 2005 and now boasts an excellent 27 holes complex. The surroundings are very attractive and this is a pleasant course to play, although we would recommend a buggy.

Our opinion: A good layout and complex.

Favourite hole: The 7th a short par 4 dogleg.

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PAIS VASCO

GOLF IN THE BASQUE COUNTRY

IZKI GOLF - URTURI LAGUARDIA, LA RIOJA 18 holes - Par 72, 7192yds

Another Seve Ballesteros gem, this superb mountain-top course has an almost heathland feel to it with loads of heather and trees. It was the first public course to be built in Spain and it’s doubtful that there is a better one anywhere in the country. With masses of space to work with, the holes are well spread out

and, as one would expect from a course so high up in the mountains, the views are wonderful.

Our opinion: Highly recommended.

The course is superb and the drive is breathtaking.

Favourite Hole: 13th.

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NAVARRE NAVARRE

CASTILLO DE GORRAIZ PAMPLONA 18 holes - Par 72, 6710yds

The course at Castillo de Gorraiz near Pamplona was designed

by Cabell Robinson a renowned American course architect who has designed many Spanish courses including La Reserva, La Cala, Santana and Finca Cortesin. The course is parkland in nature and

has as many as 6 dogleg holes. The complex also has a swimming pool and tennis courts.

Our opinion: A well designed course and one not to miss.

Favourite hole: The 18th

ULZAMA GOLF PAMPLONA 18 holes - Par 72, 6865yds

Ulzama Golf is situated in the north east of Spain not far from Pamplona which is famous for its’running of the bulls’ during the San Fermin festival each year.

The course is situated in the Navarrese Valley within an old oak forest.

Our opinion: Certainly worth a visit.

Favourite hole: The 4th a short par 4 protected by water.

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ASTURIAS REAL CLUB DE GOLF CASTIELLO GIJÓN Nearly 60 years old, this magnificent parkland course has a genuinely natural feel and, originally only nine holes, it was enlarged to 18 just over a quarter of a century ago. Although it received its ‘Royal’ tag in 2001, Real Castiello. is not in the least bit snooty and is thoroughly welcoming to visitors who can also use the lovely old clubhouse and outdoor pool.

Our opinion: A genuine royal club although very quiet and understated.

Favourite Hole: 5th.

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CLUB DE GOLF LA LLOREA, GIJÓN 18 holes - Par 72, 6454yds

Attached to the comfortable 4* Palacio de la Llorea Hotel, this delightful parkland test is fairly open. Since it is only 13 years old, the trees that separate the holes are still rather immature and don’t therefore punish wayward shots. The back nine is more

challenging with plenty of elevation and more exacting holes, plus the added attraction of splendid sea views.

Our opinion: A very busy club with a good course.

Favourite Hole: 12th.

CLUB DE GOLF LA BARGANIZA

OVIEDO

18 holes - Par 70, 6068yds

This exclusive course was designed by Victor Garcia in 1982 and is maintained to the highest possible standards.

Although it’s not a long course, accuracy is the main requirement as each fairway is tree-lined. The clubhouse is very palatial and, the best part of all, there is a superb terrace on which to enjoy a drink and compare games. Minimum handicap required 27.5 for men and 35.5 for ladies.

Our opinion: Really worth a visit. Very exclusive and in great condition.

Favourite Hole: 10th.

CLUB DE GOLF MUNICIPAL LLANES 18 holes - Par 71, 6407yds

This is a cliff- top course with views all round that are absolutely breathtaking and worth the absurdly modest green fee on their own. Maintained in great condition this is a genuine gem of a course.

Our opinion: A ‘must play’ when in the area - the additional 9 holes designed by Manuel Pinero are superb.

Favourite Hole: 4th.

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LA RIOJA

SOJUELA GOLF CLUB 18 holes - Par 72, 6925yds

This course not far from Logrono and is another that the great Seve Ballesteros designed in this region.

The course which follows a path through Oak and Pine trees is positioned on undulating land. You will enjoy some challenging golf on this par 72 layout and some stunning views towards Logrono.

Our opinion: A pleasant course in a wonderful region.

Favourite hole: The 2nd par 5 downhill to a cracking green.

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GOLF RIOJA ALTA

STO DOMINGO

18 holes - Par 72, 7071yds

Wrapped around a preserved forest full of 200-year-old oak trees, the course first plunges downhill, then winds back up before entering the forest at the turn from where you don’t emerge until you walk off the 18th and into the magnificent clubhouse.

Mounding on both sides of some of the fairways has contributed to what is undoubtedly a challenging layout and water is a factor on every hole from the eighth to the 15th.

With loads of elevation, great scenery and generous fairways, there’s more than enough here to keep any golfer happy.

Our opinion: Although new, the course is maturing well and is worth a visit.

Favourite Hole: 6th.

GOLF MUNICIPAL LOGROÑO 18 holes - Par 72, 6567yds

Another glorious course that really seems too good to be municipal. It climbs up a couple of imposing hills and has a welcome feel of spaciousness. Although there really is masses of room, there’s also plenty of inhospitable, wild-flowered wilderness to ensure that you don’t relax too much. Both the fairways and greens are well looked after and you might well walk off this top quality course wondering why municipal golf in Britain rarely attains the same standard.

Our opinion: A certain ‘must play’. Unbelievable!

Favourite Hole: 6th.

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GOLF BREAKS More and more Brits are discovering the natural splendour of Northern Spain and here you’ll find some memorable courses. Add to this outstanding food and wine, a unique après-golf ambience and great value ferry-inclusive packages, and you’ve got a golf break you’ll never forget!

CANTABRIA

LA RIOJA

from only £341 per person

from only £337 per person

2 NIGHTS ON BOARD, 2 NIGHTS B&B AND 3 ROUNDS

2 NIGHTS ON BOARD, 2 NIGHTS B&B AND 3 ROUNDS

Sail overnight Monday from Plymouth to Santander with cabin included

Sail on a Tuesday from Portsmouth to Santander with cabin included

Stay 2 nights at Hotel Mirador de la Franca a nd play 3 rounds at Santa Marina, Pedrena and Llanes

Stay 3 nights at Hotel Villa de Laguardia and play 3 rounds at Rioja Alta, Logrono and Izki Uturi

Sail to Plymouth from Santander on Wednesday evening with cabin included

Sail to Portsmouth from Santander on Wednesday evening with cabin included

Course and hotel information

Course and hotel information

GOLF SANTA MARINA Designed by Seve Ballesteros, this is an absolute stunner of a course. Sandwiched between the sea and mountains, it is pretty tough but hugely enjoyable.

GOLF RIOJA ALTA Wrapped around a preserved forest full of 200-year-old oak trees, the course first plunges downhill, then winds back up before entering the forest at the turn from where you don’t emerge until you walk off the 18th and into the magnificent clubhouse.

REAL CLUB DE GOLF PEDREÑA This course is where Seve Ballesteros learnt to hone his remarkable skills and is in fact a wonderful experience and a treat not to be missed!

It is by no means a long course but is definitely a difficult and testing one.

IZKI GOLF - URTURI Another Seve Ballesteros gem, this superb mountaintop course has an almost heathland feel to it with loads of heather and trees. It was the first public course to be built in Spain and it’s doubtful that there is a better one anywhere in the country.

CLUB DE GOLF MUNICIPAL LLANES This is a clifftop course with views all round that are absolutely breathtaking and worth the absurdly modest green fee on their own.

Maintained in great condition this is a genuine gem of a course.

GOLF MUNICIPAL LOGROÑO Another glorious course that really seems too good to be municipal. It climbs up a couple of imposing hills and has a welcome feel of spaciousness.

HOTEL MIRADOR DE LA FRANCA In a fantastic location right on the beautiful golden sands is the Mirador de La Franca, a hotel that offers good family hospitality and a lively summer ambience in an attractive setting.

HOTEL VILLA DE LAGUARDIA*** In the heart of the prestigious vineyards of La Rioja, the Villa de Laguardia is a wine lover’s delight. With a high standard of accommodation and a level of service to match, plus an impressive spa centre this superb hotel has lots to offer and is in an ideal setting for exploring the region.

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Prices shown are per person based on 4 travelling together in a standard car, sharing a cabin and twin rooms. All subject to availability.

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Customer Testimonials From the start right through, everything ran well. The ferry over was good with a swift check In. Both the courses were absolutely fantastic and will definitely be looking at returning to them.

Accommodation was ideal in a good location and not too far from the courses.

ASTURIAS

Thanks again Brittany Ferries for a fantastic trip.

from only £516 per person 2 NIGHTS ON BOARD, 5 NIGHTS B&B AND 3 ROUNDS Sail on a Sunday from Plymouth to Santander with cabin included Stay 5 nights at Hotel Abba Play de Gijón Play 3 rounds at Castiello, Llorea and Barganiza Sail to Portsmouth from Santander on Saturday evening with cabin included

Course and hotel information REAL CLUB DE GOLF CASTIELLO A magnificent parkland course on the side of a hill overlooking the attractive Gijón university. Nearly 60 years old, the course has a genuinely natural feel and, originally only nine holes, it was enlarged to 18 just over a quarter of a century ago.

Matthew Williams, September 2018

Price match guarantee Find an identical holiday at a lower price within 28 days of booking with Brittany Ferries, and we guarantee to match it.

The price match excludes insurance, special offers, loyalty bonuses, group and travel agent discounts.

Contact the Golf Desk If there's anywhere you'd like to play or stay that isn't featured on these itineraries then we can tailor-make one for you.

Tel: 0330 159 5418 Call us: Mon - Fri from 09:00 - 17:00

CLUB DE GOLF LA LLOREA This delightful parkland test is fairly open with young trees separating the holes. The back nine is rightly regarded as the more challenging with plenty of elevation and more exacting holes, plus the added attraction of splendid sea views.

Or you can arrange for us to call you back.

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CLUB DE GOLF LA BARGANIZA This exclusive course was designed by Victor Garcia in 1982 and is maintained to the highest possible standards. Although it’s not a long course, accuracy is the main requirement as each fairway is tree-lined.

HOTEL ABBA PLAYA DE GIJÓN*** An important seaport and lively recreational city, Gijón’s many different facets make it the ideal holiday destination. Its steep, narrow streets are a bustling shopping and eating centre whilst its old quarter is a historic and artistic zone.

VIEW PACKAGE Insurance not included. Terms and Conditions apply.

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YOUR HOLIDAY BEGINS

ON BOARD

A

t Brittany Ferries, we value your decision to travel to France or Spain with us, so our mission is to put you in a holiday mood as soon as you're on board.

You can enjoy a great choice of dining - from French and international cuisine to family favourites - a drink at the bar, a visit to the cinema, or even a spot of shopping.

And when you're ready to put your feet up, simply relax in the comfort of your own en suite cabin.

Accommodation

Shopping and boutiques

There's nothing better than arriving at your destination fully refreshed for the journey ahead.

Browse in our on board shops for great savings on our fine selection of wines, spirits, tobacco, perfumes, clothing, cosmetics, accessories and much more.

Whether you choose to sleep away the miles overnight, or enjoy comfort and privacy during a day crossing, our range of on board accommodation offers the perfect haven.

CABINS AND SEATS

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Looking for help? Our experts are on hand to offer personalised advice and reveal their top tips.

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Why sail with Brittany Ferries?

BEST CHOICE OF ROUTES AND DEPARTURES With the widest choice of routes, planning your next trip couldn't be easier. Sail by day, overnight or high-speed and you can even mix and match our services, and return via a different port.

SPEED ACROSS TO FRANCE FROM PORTSMOUTH From mid May until mid September, our high speed service from Portsmouth is perfect if you want to start your holiday sooner.

Arrive in as little as 180 minutes and enjoy easy access to a network of major roads for destinations in Normandy, Brittany, the Loire, and beyond.

WHY DRIVE THROUGH THE NIGHT WHEN YOU CAN SLEEP THROUGH IT?

Dining and bars

Entertainment for all

Enjoy award-winning cuisine and elegant fine dining in our à la carte restaurants, and discover great value and a superb choice of international food in our self-service restaurants.

Catch the latest films in our cinemas, enjoy live entertainment, take a stroll on deck and relax or spot some wildlife.

With a modern cruise-ferry fleet and hundreds of cabins and comfortable reserved seats, you can sleep away the miles while we take you closer to your holiday. You'll wake up in France or Spain refreshed, with the benefit a head start on fast roads heading south, east or west.

DISCOVER SPAIN, WITHOUT THE PLANE If you like the idea of a holiday in Spain, but want to avoid the hassle of flying, or the long drive through France, we have the perfect solution.

FERRY INCLUSIVE HOLIDAYS For nearly 40 years, Brittany Ferries Holidays have been providing an excellent range of hand-picked accommodation at superb prices.

FOOD AND DRINK

RELAXATION ONBOARD

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