Spain, October 2025 | EMC Golf

Late October Scouting Journey from Catalonia to Andalucía

In late October and early November, EMC Golf travelled through Spain to evaluate golf courses, resorts, and regions for future client travel. This scouting journey spanned Catalonia, Valencia, the Costa Blanca, and Andalucía, with the goal of identifying destinations that consistently deliver strong golf while supporting the broader experience that makes a trip memorable. Our focus extended well beyond course rankings. We assessed how golf integrates into daily life, how destinations function logistically, and where the balance between golf and culture comes together. Once again, Spain reinforced its position as one of the most complete and versatile golf travel destinations available.

Catalonia and Camiral Golf and Wellness Resort

The journey began in Catalonia at Camiral Golf and Wellness Resort, formerly known as PGA Catalunya. After a long travel day, arrival at the resort immediately set the tone. The property is quiet and well maintained, with a strong sense of place and an emphasis on quality throughout. The Stadium Course fully lived up to its reputation. Strategic, visually compelling, and demanding without being punitive. The Tour Course provided a complementary experience, slightly more forgiving and particularly enjoyable during early morning rounds. Practice facilities here rank among the best in Europe, offering extensive range space, short game areas, and modern feedback technology. From a group travel perspective, Camiral performs exceptionally well. High quality accommodation, two contrasting championship courses, excellent food and beverage, and straightforward access from Barcelona make it an ideal anchor for hosted and self guided golf trips.

Valencia and El Saler

Valencia remains an underrated golf city, especially in shoulder season. The standout course here was Parador de El Saler, a classic Javier Arana design set between pine forest and the Mediterranean Sea. El Saler does not position itself as a luxury resort, but its architectural quality is outstanding. The green complexes are among the strongest encountered on the trip and reward thoughtful shot making. With a history of hosting professional events, the course remains a legitimate test. Late October conditions were ideal, with cool mornings and comfortable afternoons. For golfers who prioritize design integrity and authenticity over branding, El Saler is a compelling option and pairs well with Valencia’s vibrant urban lifestyle.

Costa Blanca and Las Colinas

Further south on the Costa Blanca, Las Colinas Golf and Country Club exceeded expectations. This is a modern resort executed perfectly. The routing flows naturally through the landscape, conditioning is consistently strong, and the course remains playable for a wide range of handicaps while still engaging for stronger players. The surrounding real estate is thoughtfully integrated and enhances the overall experience rather than distracting from it. For clients seeking sun, comfort, and consistency, Las Colinas is an easy recommendation and works particularly well for longer stays.

Andalucía Highlights

Andalucía continues to justify its reputation as Spain’s most established golf region. A brief stop at Real Club Valderrama reinforced its standing as one of Europe’s great courses. Even without playing, the atmosphere, practice facilities, and overall presentation signal a club operating at the highest level. In Seville, Real Club Sevilla Golf offered a complementary experience. A strong championship layout with proven tournament pedigree, it is best suited to spring and fall play. The course is highly walkable, consistently well maintained, and pairs naturally with Seville’s exceptional culture, dining, and historic depth.

Barcelona and El Prat

Returning to Catalonia, El Prat Golf (Pink) offered a fitting final round. The club provides solid facilities, welcoming staff, and a course that improves as the round progresses. It is an excellent option for golfers staying in Barcelona who want quality golf without long transfers.

When to Go and Why It Works

Late October proved to be an ideal window for travel. Temperatures generally sat in the high teens to low twenties, courses were accessible, and crowds were minimal. Tee times were easier to secure, and the overall pace of travel felt relaxed. What stands out consistently in Spain is how naturally golf fits into daily life. A morning round can be followed by a long lunch, an afternoon exploring a city or coastal town, and an exceptional dinner, all without feeling rushed or over programmed.

Final Thoughts

Spain offers depth. Trips can be built around marquee courses or quieter regions that deliver equal satisfaction in different ways. For independent travelers, hosted groups, or fully custom itineraries, Spain remains one of the most flexible and rewarding golf destinations available.