|
The port city of Alicante on Spain’s Costa Blanca is the perfect destination for golfers looking for culture to complement their putting and driving. The city is not only surrounded by some of the country’s most magnificent courses, but it is also home to fantastic ruins, beaches, museums and markets. The weather in this area of Spain is warm and sunny all year round, and the food is some of the most delicious and traditional to be found anywhere in the country. For Europe’s best cultural golf holidays, Spain, and particularly Alicante, cannot be beaten. The Golf Courses The region of Alicante has over 18 golf courses, which suit a variety of skill levels and players. With something for everyone, it can be difficult to choose between courses on a short holiday, but here are two that will definitely tickle your fancy. Oliva Nova Beach and Golf Resort: This par-72 course was designed by no other than Spain’s Seve Ballesteros, who wanted the course to be playable by both experienced golfers and beginners. Seve made water the key feature of the course’s design, with 15 of the holes containing a water feature. Villamartin Golf Course: Also a par-72, this course offers terrific scenic views over the Mediterranean and cemented itself in history by hosting the 1994 Mediterranean Open. Designed by Paul Putman, the course can be split into a nine-hole seafront and a nine-hole valley section. Roman Ruins In addition to excellent golfing, the Western Mediterranean trading port of Lucentum can be spotted amidst the bustle of modern Alicante. Discovering the ancient bathhouses, courtyards and a forum is a great day out, and lets visitors experience different parts of this vibrant city. Gorgeous Beaches The region’s most famous beach is Playa de San Juan, a 2,900-metre-long stretch of fine golden sand between Cabo de las Huertas and El Campello. Legend has it that in the days of Moorish Spain, an African queen would bathe on this very beach. Museums Of Alicante’s many fascinating museums and galleries, the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo is unmissable. Here visitors can find works by Picasso, Dali and Miro among others, and all are housed in the wonderful 400-year-old Casa de la Asegurada. Street Markets Alicante has a vibrant market culture, and the Mercado Central has one of the finest street markets in Spain. This market hall is packed with a plethora of foods, ranging from fresh fruit to pastries to breads. Keep your eyes peeled for Spanish spices, especially paprika – you cannot find this exact flavour anywhere else in the world. Fine Wining and Dining The Costa Blanca is famous for the ripest tomatoes and oranges, as well as for its fresh and delicious shellfish. Nothing washes down a prawn paella like a glass of tangy red wine from a nearby vineyard. This is Spanish cuisine at its finest and most authentic. More Than Your Average Golfing Holiday If you want to get the most out of golf holidays, Spain is unbeatable for courses, culture and food. Alicante is the pinnacle of the Spanish golfing experience and presents far more than just tranquil greens and pretty fairways. The old city is a dream for culture vultures, who can combine their love of museums and food with one of the best golf holidays Spain has to offer. Author Plate Steve Frewin is the Managing Director of A Golfing Experience, a company with more than 25 years experience organising bespoke golf holidays and escapes throughout Europe for individuals, societies and groups. If you're looking for truly great golf holidays, Spain is one of our top destinations. We also operate in all the other major European golf destinations and, if you'd like to explore options further afield, we can arrange holidays to the world's greatest golf courses in The Caribbean, Mauritius, Bermuda and USA.
Related Articles -
golf, holidays, Spain,
|
