Fam tour: exploring Costa del Sol best golf resorts

By Jorge Diogo (Director of Sales & Marketing)

From June 9 to 13, the Tee Times Golf Agency booking department team had the privilege of embarking on an exciting fam tour through the stunning Costa del Sol. This tour was not just about work but also about enjoying some of Spain’s best golf courses and hotels. Our crew, consisting of Telma Santos, Marisa Galhardo, Atyla Miranda, Vera Santos and me, had a blast and returned with a wealth of knowledge and unforgettable experiences.

The Costa del Sol, nestled along the southern coastline of Spain, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque landscapes. However, one of its most captivating attractions is its world-class golf courses and luxurious resorts. This region has become a premier destination for golf enthusiasts from around the globe, offering a blend of exceptional facilities and rich cultural experiences.

During the fam tour, our team was dedicated to learning in detail about each golf course and the services of the hotels and restaurants. This commitment ensures that we can provide our clients with the most accurate and beneficial information and services.

The fam tour in detail

We began our adventure at La Hacienda Links Golf Resort, a golf course offering spectacular views towards Gibraltar and Morocco. Besides its natural beauty, we couldn’t resist trying their delicious cheese pie, which is an absolute must!

Then we continue our trip visiting The San Roque Club and La Reserva, enjoying the beauty of its golf courses, which are recognised by golfers worldwide.

Our next destination was SO/ Sotogrande, which made us feel like we were in a charming village. The spacious rooms and incredibly comfortable beds added a touch of luxury to our stay. We savoured an à la carte breakfast on the terrace, with the stunning views of the mountains and sea enhancing our dining experience.

During each day of the fam trip, we visited many golf courses and hotels, and describing each activity in detail is tough. But I want to acknowledge the kindness and friendliness we received in each place.

Hotel Finca Cortesin left us speechless with its opulence and splendour, seamlessly blending modern and classic elements. At Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavis Marbella Resort, we were warmly welcomed with fresh towels, cava, and chocolates, a detail we deeply appreciated.

La Cala Resort is not only a paradise for golf lovers but also for spa enthusiasts. The METT Hotel & Beach Resort captivated us with its location facing the sea and private pools in the suites, offering a luxurious and comfortable experience.

On our last day, we ended by relaxing at the infinity pool at La Zambra, a modern-style hotel with many Andalusian features. We enjoyed a memorable welcome dinner that concluded with an excellent tiramisu prepared right at our table.

Chaparral Golf Club, a privileged place close to the sea and surrounded by a pine forest, welcomed us warmly. We enjoyed a fantastic experience at the Driving Range, followed by an exquisite lunch highlighting the club’s hospitality and culinary excellence.

We are deeply grateful to all the golf clubs and hotels that welcomed us with their warm hospitality. La Hacienda Links Golf Resort and SO/ Sotogrande, your fantastic hospitality made our stay memorable. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Finca Cortesin, El Paraíso Golf Club, Villa Padierna Hotels & Resorts, and Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavis Marbella Resort for their outstanding service. 

During our tour, we visited several premier golf and resort destinations, including The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa, Los Naranjos Golf Club, Atalaya Golf & Country Club, Rio Real Golf & Hotel, La Cala Resort, Santa Clara Golf Club Marbella, Marbella Golf Country Club, METT Hotel & Beach Resort, and Melia Sol Atalaya Park

Our thanks to all for hosting our team and sharing your magnificent facilities during the fam tour. With over 30 years of experience at Tee Times Golf Agency, we take pride in offering exceptional golf holidays in Portugal and Spain, ensuring our customers’ satisfaction.

Tee Times highlights Portugal and Spain in the IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention

Carlos Ferreira, CEO and founder of Tee Times Golf Agency, and Jorge Diogo, Director of Sales and Marketing, recently represented the agency at the 15th IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention (NAC) held from June 17-19, 2024, at the Mountain Grand Lodge & Spa in Boyne Falls, Northern Michigan. This prestigious event is a pivotal gathering for the golf tourism industry, bringing together prominent golf resorts, clubs, hotels, tourist boards, and other suppliers from the USA, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond.

The IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention is known for its highly structured format, facilitating pre-scheduled meetings between suppliers and buyers over two days. This setup fosters meaningful business relationships and networking opportunities. The convention started with a golf tournament at two of Northern Michigan’s premier courses, followed by social functions, including a Welcome Reception and a Farewell Evening function. Delegates enjoyed buffet lunches and evening meetings, ensuring ample informal networking and discussion opportunities.

IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention opportunities

Carlos Ferreira and Jorge Diogo seized the opportunity to connect with top tour operators. They successfully showcased the exceptional experiences that Tee Times Golf Agency offers in Portugal, Spain, and other destinations. They effectively highlighted the luxurious golf holidays available through the agency, emphasising their wide range of golf packages, top-class courses, and comprehensive facilities. As an IAGTO member, Tee Times ensures a seamless booking experience and unparalleled golf trips, a testament to our proven track record.

 

Our agency specialises in providing tailored golf holiday packages that cater to every golf enthusiast, from solo players to professional groups. Whether it’s the sun-soaked courses of the Algarve and Costa del Sol, the vibrant streets of Lisbon and Madrid, or the serene landscapes of the Canary Islands, Tee Times ensures a golf trip that exceeds expectations.

During fantastic days, we made valuable business connections at the IAGTO North America Golf Tourism Convention, enjoyed the camaraderie, and shared our experiences with colleagues and friends. We had the opportunity to play golf, participate in the convention’s dinners and activities, and strengthen existing partnerships. This personal touch underscores Tee Times Golf Agency’s commitment to delivering exceptional golf tourism experiences and the warm, welcoming nature of the industry. Congratulations to the organizers. Thank you very much for receiving us and making us feel at home. See you next year!

Real Guadalhorce Golf Club will receive strong hitters for the Spain LDET Championship

The Real Guadalhorce Golf Club is set to host the Spain Long Drive European Tour (LDET) Championship on September 20th and 21st, marking the second time the tour will visit this prestigious venue. Nestled in Málaga, just 15 minutes from the international airport and 10 minutes from the historic city centre, Real Guadalhorce provides an idyllic setting for this thrilling competition. With its tranquil environment and top-tier facilities, the club is primed to offer participants an unparalleled experience.

“We are very proud to welcome the tournament in September,” said Ignacio Sánchez, Director of Real Guadalhorce Golf Club. “Our location in Málaga, near the international airport, offers the perfect blend of serenity and accessibility. Our team eagerly anticipates the event and looks forward to making the players feel at home.”

The Spain LDET Championship, a tournament known for its fierce competition, is all set to return to Real Guadalhorce. The last time it was held here in 2017 witnessed a nail-biting final where European Champion Matt Nicolle emerged victorious over Steve Curtis. This year’s tournament promises to be equally intense, with top contenders like Nicolle, Teemu Pitkanen, Robin Horvath, and Bry Roberts. The 2017 LDET Champion, Nicolle, returns with a strong track record, including three tour victories. Pitkanen, known for his record-breaking 440-yard drive, and Horvath, who holds the European distance record of 443 yards, will also compete for the title.

About Real Guadalhorce Golf Club

Real Guadalhorce Golf Club, a masterpiece designed by Kosti Kuronen and later enhanced by Ryder Cup winner Miguel Ángel Jiménez, features a challenging 18-hole course. The front nine, designed in an English “parkland” style, offers gentle hills and wide fairways, while the back nine incorporates raised greens and water hazards, increasing the challenge. The entire course, stretching 6194 meters, is enveloped by Mediterranean vegetation, enhancing its beauty and complexity.

The tournament, supported by the Tourism of Málaga and the Málaga Sports and Events Department, highlights Real Guadalhorce’s status as a premier golfing destination. With its modern facilities catering to all family members and a rich history in the golfing world, Real Guadalhorce Golf Club is a top venue for the LDET Championship and a key player in Spain’s golfing landscape. For those seeking an exceptional golfing experience, the club is a must-visit destination, and it is one of the best recommendations Tee Times Golf Agency offers for those looking to enjoy their Spain golf holidays.