since 2002...
GOLF TRAVEL
Golf holidays & experiences
budget friendly escapes
from North Africa to Southern Spain
Dreaming of hitting the links under warm skies without emptying your bank account? A budget-friendly golf holiday is the perfect way to enjoy great value for money and still play golf on fantastic courses. A budget-friendly trip ensures you have more financial freedom for other activities or, better yet, the opportunity to take multiple trips throughout the year.
Budget-Friendly Doesn’t Mean Compromising
Choosing value doesn’t mean compromising on your experience; it means prioritising what matters most: time on the course. By opting for a budget approach, you can play more rounds for the same budget and explore lesserknown destinations that offer fantastic, affordable courses—true hidden gems. The ability to secure a good deal on the main components of the trip provides financial freedom to spend on other experiences or to bring more friends along to split costs. A budget-friendly trip also works to make the sport more accessible, offering more opportunities for both golf and relaxation.
Mar Menor Golf Course
La Torre Golf Course
The Benefits: Value, Convenience
and Flexibility
Budget-friendly golf holidays provide a unique blend of financial and planning advantages that enhance your overall enjoyment.
• Significant Savings: Budget options offer lower-priced packages which can lead to significant savings on green fees, accommodation, and meals. Group discounts and deals, such as “1 FREE in 8” are common for groups, helping to split accommodation costs further.
• Hassle-Free Experience: Many budget holiday packages provide a less stressful experience by removing the worry of hidden fees, booking tables, or planning off-course activities. Booking a package that combines accommodation and golf is key to saving money and reducing planning stress.
• More Time for Golf: By choosing closer destinations, particularly within Europe, you can reduce travel time and cost, allowing you to spend more time on the course.
• Access to Quality: Destinations like Spain or Tunisia, often included in budget packages, offer both quality golf experiences and great value.
If you’re seeking quality courses and unmatched value, look no further than the stunning coastal regions of Spain: Murcia, Huelva and Almeria, and for something outside Europe look no further than Tunisia. These regions are perfect for golfers looking to combine low costs with enjoyable courses, ensuring your golfing passion doesn’t strain your wallet.
Isla Canela Links
Islantilla Golf Course
Tunisia, North Africa’s vibrant gem, is quickly emerging as a must-visit destination for golfers looking for world-class courses without the premium price tag of traditional European hotspots. Located just a short flight from Europe, this country offers an extraordinary blend of championship golf, year-round sunshine, and rich cultural heritage.
If you’re seeking to stretch your golfing budget further while enjoying stunning Mediterranean views and superb hospitality, Tunisia should be at the top of your list.
One of Tunisia’s biggest draws is its perfect climate, ensuring that you’ll be hard-pressed to find a day when you can’t play golf.
The ideal time for a golf holiday is during the shoulder seasons. Spring (March to June) offers pleasant, warm temperatures, typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C, and minimal rainfall, making conditions optimal for golf and other outdoor explorations.
Citrus - La Foret Golf Course
Similarly, autumn (September to November) provides mild and comfortable weather, generally between 18°C and 28°C, with clear skies perfect for playing the courses. You may want to avoid the height of summer (July and August), as temperatures can often soar past 35°C, making comfortable golf challenging.
Exceptional Value: Why Tunisia is Budget-Friendly
Tunisia offers golfers truly outstanding value for money. Generally considered a budget-friendly destination compared to many European tourist spots, the cost of green fees, accommodation, dining, and spa treatments are often a fraction of those incurred elsewhere in the Mediterranean.
Budget-conscious travellers can find reasonably priced hotels, especially when booking outside of the peak summer season. Many resorts in popular areas like Hammamet and Port El Kantaoui offer cost-effective, all-inclusive packages, which are excellent for controlling costs by bundling meals, drinks, and activities.
Golf in Tunisia: 45-Hole Marvel of Citrus Golf
Just 10 minutes from Hammamet, Citrus Golf Club offers one of North Africa’s most complete and compelling golf destinations. With a sprawling 45 holes—comprising two 18-hole championship layouts and a 9-hole academy course—this venue is perfect for every golfer, from couples seeking a relaxing break to groups looking for an unforgettable competitive challenge.
Citrus - Les Oliviers Golf Course
Citrus - La Foret Golf Course
Citrus Golf – Les Oliviers (The Versatile Challenger)
While often called the club’s “second course,” Les Oliviers is championshipstandard and a fantastic way to start your trip. Suitable for golfers who like to ease into their holiday, or groups with mixed abilities who appreciate a course that builds in difficulty.
Citrus Golf – La Foret (The Flagship Test)
Designed to test even the most accomplished golfer. Characterised by its undulating fairways and incredible views of the surrounding countryside, this course demands precision and strategy. Suitable for experienced golfers, pros, and those seeking a true mental and physical challenge.
Beyond the Fairways: Exploring Tunisia
When you are ready to put your clubs away, Tunisia offers a vibrant spectrum of activities, blending history, relaxation, and adventure.
History and Culture - Tunisia is steeped in history, boasting ancient landmarks that invite exploration such as:
The Ruins of Carthage, The El Jem Amphitheatre and The National Bardo Museum. Relaxation and Recreation - For some downtime and recreation the coastal resorts are the ideal places to go. Places like Hammamet, Sousse and Djerba are great for water activities. If relaxation is what you’re looking for, many resorts offer thalassotherapy and
Citrus - Les Oliviers Golf Course
Citrus - La Foret Golf Course
spa treatments.
If instead adventure is your go-to activity after golf, explore the Sahara Desert with an excursion that could include quad bikes.
Star Wars Locations: Film buffs can visit sites in the south, such as Matmata, which doubled as the planet Tatooine in the Star Wars movies.
A Taste of Tunisia: Culinary Delights
Tunisian food is a true fusion of cultures—a distinct blend of spicy Maghrebi and flavourful Mediterranean traditions. The cuisine is heavily based on olive oil, fresh fish and seafood, tomatoes, and aromatic spices.
Some must-tries when you’re in Tunisia are:
Brik (Brik a l’oeuf): a thin, crispy, filo-like pastry often stuffed with a whole egg yolk, tuna, and herbs, and then deep-fried.
Mechouia Salad: this salad consists of finely chopped, chargrilled peppers, tomatoes, and sometimes aubergine, dressed generously with olive oil.
Makroudh: For a sweet treat, try this diamond-shaped semolina pastry filled with date paste, fried and then soaked in honey syrup.
To Bear in Mind When Visiting Tunisia
For travellers, it is helpful to know that while the Tunisian Dinar (TND) is the main currency used for transactions, major currencies like sterling, euros, and US dollars are widely accepted for exchange. Cash is generally preferred for transactions in Tunisia. It is recommended to exchange money as needed as any leftover TND is not accepted beyond the airport security.
If you are seeking an unforgettable Spanish golf holiday that delivers championship quality without the premium price tag, look no further than Murcia. Known as the “Warm Coast” (Costa Cálida), this sun-soaked region in southeastern Spain is quickly establishing itself as one of Europe’s top golfing destinations, offering a unique blend of exceptional value, rich culture, and year-round superb weather. Murcia offers unrivalled value for money in Europe. The affordability here extends beyond just green fees. You can find enticing entry-level packages, with some golf holidays starting from as low as £255 for 3-night, 2-round breaks.
The Ideal Time to Tee Off in Murcia
Murcia is blessed with an enviable microclimate, boasting over 300 days of sunshine annually.
However, the best time to visit for the most comfortable golfing weather is Spring (February to May) and Autumn (mid-September to November) providing warm, sunny conditions of 20°C for spending hours on the course.
The Long Game: Courses for the Demanding Golfer
Murcia is home to approximately 20 golf courses. Whether you are a casual player or a serious competitor Murcia offers something for every golfer and handicap. With over 20 excellent courses to choose from, it could be difficult to decide which course is best for you. To make it a little easier, below are some of our favourite.
Hacienda del Alamo Golf Course is ideal for the golfer who appreciates exclusivity and length. This desert-style course is one of the longest golf courses in Spain, spreading over 7400 yards. It is best suited for golfers of every ability, but particularly those seeking a stern test where accuracy is of fundamental importance.
La Torre Golf Course designated as providing the best resort golf experience. This signature Jack Nicklaus design is known for its open layout, contrasting in style compared to other courses in the region, and resembles the Pacific Coast courses of the USA.
Menor Golf Club is a standout option, designed by world-famous architects Jack Nicklaus and David Thomas. It is also designated as the course offering the best value in Murcia. Suitable for golfers of all levels, this course is perfect for golfers who appreciate a strategic balance.
Best suited to mid to high handicap golfers who will find it ideal and not intimidating. La Torre Golf Course It also caters to lower handicappers who want to take calculated risks from the back tees.
Hacienda del Alamo Golf Course
Mar Menor Golf Club
Mar
Beyond the Fairways: Exploring Murcia
Murcia offers a wealth of leisure activities to keep you and any non-golfing companions fully entertained.
Culture and History: The region is steeped in rich history, perfect for exploration on non-golfing days.
Murcia City: As the capital, the city is full of life, history, and culture. Must-see landmarks include the Murcia Cathedral, known for its stunning Baroque facade and tall bell tower.
Nature and Adventure: For those who prefer the outdoors, Murcia is ideal. You can go hiking in the Sierra Espuña Regional Park, enjoy scenic drives, or take advantage of cycling routes through the Huerta de Murcia. For families, the Terra Natura Murcia Wildlife Park is a unique zoo experience.
Sun and Sea: The region’s coastline, the Costa Cálida, is famous for its fine sandy beaches and warm waters.
Mar Menor Lagoon: A must-visit attraction, this huge saltwater lagoon is separated from the Mediterranean Sea by La Manga strip. It offers abundant opportunities for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Evening Entertainment: Murcia City provides vibrant nightlife, especially ideal for groups looking to celebrate after a round. The city features everything from upmarket cocktail bars to local Jazz clubs and nightclubs.
Murcia: A Gastronomic Jewel
For golfing foodies and wine-lovers, Murcia is a true gastronomic jewel. The region was recognised as Spain’s official “Capital of Gastronomy” in 2020 and 2021.
Murcian cuisine is rich and varied, drawing heavily on high-quality vegetables from its fertile valleys (“Europe’s Orchard”) and fresh seafood from its coastline.
Some of Murcia’s must-tries include:
Marineras: This is arguably the most famous Murcian tapa, consisting of a crunchy bread stick or doughnut topped with creamy Russian salad and an anchovy.
Arroz Caldero (Mar Menor rice): A signature seafood rice dish traditionally cooked in a cauldron-like pan by fishermen.
Michirones: A hearty, filling stew or appetiser made primarily from large broad beans, typically flavoured with chorizo and ham bone.
Don’t forget Murcia’s famous desserts! Try the Paparajotes, which are lemon leaves fried in a sweet batter and dusted with sugar and cinnamon (remember, you eat the batter, not the leaf itself!), or the sticky, sugary Tocino de cielo (Bacon of Heaven).
Be sure to sample Licor 43, a sweet liquor that originates in Murcia, often used in the local coffee cocktail, Cafe Asiatico.
If you are seeking brilliant golf and comfortable accommodation without the luxurious price tag, look no further than the Costa de la Luz Huelva. Known affectionately as the Spanish Algarve, Huelva remains one of Spain’s relatively undiscovered corners, offering incredible value and a high-quality golfing experience that won’t break the bank. Regarded for its great value golf holiday packages, the region provides excellent accommodation and golf options at very reasonable prices.
Best Time to Visit Huelva
Huelva benefits from a superb climate, earning its name “Coast of Light”, offering year-round golf thanks to its warm Mediterranean climate and more than 300 days of sunshine annually.
However, for the best golfing conditions, we recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons:
Spring (March to June): This period offers mild, sunny weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for comfortable play. April and May are highly popular months to visit. Autumn (September to November): Temperatures cool down, and the weather remains pleasant, particularly in September.
If you are prioritising budget, the winter months (December to February) often provide the best deals and lowest prices, with courses being less busy and mild temperatures that can sometimes hit 20+ degrees in the middle of the day.
Huelva: Spain’s Secret Golfing Gem
Huelva is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after golf destinations in Spain, world-renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches and an ever-growing selection of fantastic golf courses that offer exceptional value for money.
Among the region’s venues, three courses stand out for their quality, variety, value for money and unforgettable character: Islantilla golf course, Isla Canela Links, and Isla Canela Old Course.
Islantilla is consistently lauded as one of Huelva’s premier golfing venues, featuring a fantastic 27-hole complex comprised of three distinct loops of nine holes. It is widely considered among the finest courses in the south of Spain due to the sheer variety it offers.
Islantilla is perfect for groups or couples with varying skill levels.
Isla Canela Links is a lengthy parkland course measuring 7,225 yards, designed with typical American golfing architecture yet possessing a distinctive links feel. The course blends effortlessly into the stunning natural environment, surrounded by wetlands, salt marshes, and the Guadiana River, which forms the border between Spain and Portugal.The course is challenging, however, amateur players should not be deterred, as the wide variety of tee-off options ensures that higher handicappers are always accommodated.
Isla Canela Old Course is one of the best-known courses in the area, widely renowned for the immaculate condition of its greens and perfectly manicured fairways. The course is popular amongst amateurs and low handicappers and it is the perfect choice for golfers seeking a reliable, high-quality course that offers a straightforward yet demanding test of accuracy, all within a beautiful setting.
Islantilla Golf Course
Isla Canela Links
Culinary Delights and Off-Course Exploration
A truly memorable golf holiday combines your passion for the game with local cultural exploration. When you are off the fairways, Huelva, an area renowned for gastronomy, promises a genuine Spanish experience filled with historic charm, stunning scenery, and delicious local food. The area offers renowned gastronomy.
While dining out, you must try some of the region’s famous delicacies:
Coquinas (clams) and Jabugo ham from the nearby Huelva mountains. You can also enjoy a great variety of bars and restaurants in classic Spanish fishing towns like El Rompido. For a special experience, the town of Cartaya features Bodegón el Pato, known for delicious ham, sumptuous seafood, and superb tapas.
The Costa de la Luz Huelva is world-renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches, offering golden stretches of sand.
Beyond the seaside, you can explore the region’s unspoiled natural beauty:
Nature Reserves: Visit the Marismas del Río Piedras marshland, a protected natural area accessible by ferry from Portil town. Alternatively, the Doñana National Park, a
Isla Canela Old Course
UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fantastic haven for wildlife and birdwatching.
Historic Towns: Explore the local history and traditional Spanish way of life. Towns such as Islantilla, El Rompido and Ayamonte are just a 10-minute drive from Hotel Isla Canela Golfand offer bustling local nightlife. You can also visit the Caravel Wharf (La Rábida) to see replicas of Columbus’ vessels.
Day Trips: The region’s short travel times make it easy to venture further afield. You can plan a day trip to the nearby city of Seville or cross the border to play on courses in the Algarve region of Portugal.
Getting to Costa de la Luz Huelva from the UK
Huelva is highly accessible from the UK. Although there is no direct airport in Huelva itself, the region is well-served by two major international gateways, both approximately an hour’s drive away from the coast:
1. Faro Airport (FAO), Portugal: This is one of Europe’s most popular holiday airports and is the primary option for accessing Huelva. Flights are available from major UK airports.
2. Seville Airport (SVQ), Spain: Another common choice, Seville offers many direct flights from UK airports.
You will need to factor in ground transport from the airport to your final accommodation via bus, private transfer, or car rental. Renting a car is recommended as it gives you the flexibility to easily explore the region and travel between the different golf courses. If you are travelling on a tighter budget, be prepared for indirect flights or slightly longer travel times.
Almeria, in the province of Andalusia, is the rising star of Spanish golf, offering an unforgettable escape where superb value meets Europe’s most reliable sunshine. While the Costa del Sol draws the crowds, Costa Almeria provides a tranquil and peaceful environment, less commercially developed than some of the region’s busier golf destinations. This unique blend makes Almeria a first-class choice for your next golf holiday—especially if you’re watching your budget. Almeria stands out for delivering fantastic value golfing breaks without compromising quality. You can find excellent packages offering highly affordable prices.
Best Time to Visit Almeria
If consistent sun is what you crave, Almeria is the perfect spot, officially boasting the best climate in Europe. The region enjoys a unique desert climate. With an average of around 320 days of sunshine each year and extremely low levels of rainfall, you are practically guaranteed an uninterrupted round of golf. For the best golfing weather, consider visiting between March–June and September–November.
But if you’re prioritising value, the best tome to visit Almeria is during the months of December–February and April–June.
Desert Challenge and Mediterranean Luxury: A Golf Escape to Valle del Este Golf Resort
Valle del Este offers the perfect golf escape in Almería, situated in one of the regions of Continental Europe boasting the highest number of hours of annual sunshine. With over 3000 hours annually, this destination is a must-play for your next golf holiday.
The Valle del Este Course is an 18hole Championship course known for its amazing desert style. It is highly recommended, though golfers should be prepared for a challenge—it is described as a fine but tough golf course.
What makes this course unique is the absence of traditional rough; only desert shrubbery. While the fairways are reasonably wide, the course design demands precision, as the main difficulty lies in hitting the well protected greens. Despite its challenging nature, playing here is an experience in itself, where you will enjoy the spectacular desert scenery and views of the distant Med.
The course facilities ensure a comfortable day out, offering a bar, restaurant, buggy hire, trolley Hire, a putting green, a driving range, changing facilities, and a Pro shop. This course appeals particularly to players who value unique, stunning scenery alongside a rigorous technical test.
Valle del Este Golf Course
Valle del Este Golf Course
Valle del Este Golf Resort: Style, Comfort & Relaxation
For golfers seeking value and convenience, the Valle del Este Resort is a 4-star Hotel located right by the clubhouse described as a stunning modern hotel that offers great value for money.
The hotel is designed with comfort and style in mind, featuring modern architecture both inside and outside offering golfers a complete experience, perfectly combining golf with relaxation.
Golf, Wellness and
Beach
On-Site Golf: The 18-hole Championship course and golf practice facilities are located directly on site.
Views: The rooms are tastefully decorated and are air-conditioned, often offering golf or golf and sea views.
Dining and Relaxation: The resort features two restaurants and sophisticated facilities such as a large outdoor pool—a great place to relax and cool off after your game. For the cooler months, there is even a thermal bath.
Wellness: The hotel boasts a dedicated spa & wellness centre, a gym, a sauna, and paddle tennis courts.
Beach Access: Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s own beach club on Vera beach, where they can enjoy fine Mediterranean cuisine at the Restaurant-Trattoria.
Staying at the Valle del Este Golf Resort enables the discerning golfer to be right next to a challenging course while taking advantage of modern, high-quality amenities designed for recovery, relaxation and enjoyment.
Off the Course: Culture, Coastline, and Cuisine
Almeria is not just about the fairways; the region offers a rich array of activities for your non-golfing days. The region features over 100 kilometers of unspoiled coastline, providing a multitude of gorgeous sandy beaches. Here, you can enjoy watersports or discover a quiet, secluded spot. For those interested in history and culture, the ancient port city of Almeria has a long list of sights, including the magnificent Alcazaba of Almeria, a Moorish fortress that watches over the city. You can also explore charming fishing villages along the coast or visit the more vibrant towns of Roquetas de Mar and Mojacar. The town of Vera is known for its thriving atmosphere, shops selling local handicrafts, and a fantastic street market on Saturdays.
Getting to Almeria from the UK
Accessing Almeria is straightforward and convenient. Frequent flights are available into Almeria Airport (LEI), and a flight from London takes approximately 2 hours 45 minutes.
Almeria is a perfect choice for your next golf break, offering affordability, year-round sun, high-quality courses, and a wealth of history and fine food to enjoy.
Golf Escapes to Tunisia and Southern Spain
If you’re wondering how much a golf escape to Tunisia or South Spain costs, we have some example packages outlined below.
Murcia
The Sindbad Hotel
5 Nights 3 Rounds Half board Airport transfers included FREE golf course shuttle included Tunisia
In this package you will play Citrus Golf - Les Oliviers and La Foret golf courses
ONA Mar Menor Golf & Spa
3 Nights 2 Rounds Bed & Breakfast Buggies included 1 FREE in 8 Group discounts
In this package you will play Hacienda del Alamo, La Torre and Mar Menor golf courses
Huelva
4 Nights 3 Rounds Bed & Breakfast 10% Discount Group discounts
In this package you will play Isla Canela Links and Isla Canela Old Course
3 Nights 3 Rounds Half board Buggies included Almeria
In this package you will play Valle del Este golf course
Vila Gale Isla Canela
Valle del Este Golf Resort
Hacienda del Alamo golf course
keeping your holiday on course since 2002....
