Spain Golf Holidays

Powering progress: Club de Golf El Bosque’s solar investment drives change

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The commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is a growing trend among businesses worldwide, and the Club de Golf El Bosque in Valencia, Spain, is no exception. Recently, the club made a significant investment in renewable energy by installing a photovoltaic plant covering 629 square meters of their parking area. This initiative is poised to cover 25% of the club’s electricity demand, marking a substantial step towards reducing their carbon footprint.

Club de Golf El Bosque’s innovative photovoltaic installation, featuring 224 solar panels atop parking lot canopies, is a testament to its commitment to sustainability. With a capacity of 123 kW, this installation is projected to prevent the emission of 1,184 tons of CO2 over the next 25 years, making a significant contribution to environmental preservation.

During the past winter, the club took advantage of the offseason to integrate canopies over 60 parking spaces, housing the solar panels to generate a quarter of the club’s electricity needs. This move underscores the club’s commitment to implementing sustainable practices and enhancements.

Club de Golf El Bosque’s solar investment

The investment, totalling €180,000, encompasses not only the installation of the canopies and solar panels but also the electrification of six parking spaces and the expansion of an additional 50 parking spots. This comprehensive approach reflects the club’s dedication to environmental stewardship and improved infrastructure for its members and visitors.

Club de Golf El Bosque’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its current initiatives. In its 2024 investment plan, the club aims to establish a coworking area within the social club and refurbish equipment for fire prevention in designated areas. These future endeavours are designed to elevate the club’s service standards while fostering a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to facility management.

Located in Valencia and inaugurated in 1975, Club de Golf El Bosque stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of Robert Trent Jones Sr., renowned for designing some of the world’s premier golf courses. Situated amidst a landscape characterized by a deep ravine, the course’s undulating profile offers an engaging array of holes, blending natural topography with strategic design elements.

Spanning a total of 6,249 meters with a par of 72, the course’s 18 holes cater to golfers of all skill levels, embodying Jones’ vision of inclusivity and enjoyment for seasoned players and novices alike. This versatility has earned Club de Golf El Bosque the distinction of hosting prestigious international championships, including the Open El Bosque (Volvo Tour), the Open Mediterránea, the PGA Senior European Tour, and the Copa de Su Majestad La Reina.

Club de Golf El Bosque’s investment in solar energy underscores its commitment to sustainability while further solidifying its position as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts, particularly those seeking the best Spain golf holiday experience through Tee Times Golf Agency.

Exploring Greg Norman’s golfing paradises in Spain

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Greg Norman Golf Course Design is a beacon of signature golf course design excellence. With a portfolio boasting over 100 courses spread across 34 countries and six continents, the firm has left an indelible mark on the global golfing landscape. However, GNGCD’s presence in Europe is a testament to its exclusivity, with only three developments, two of which are in Spain: Real Club de Golf El Prat and Infinitum Golf Club. The other one is Doonbeg Golf Club, in Ireland.

Greg Norman, known as the “Great White Shark” for his dominance on the golf course, transitioned seamlessly from player to designer, drawing inspiration from his extensive experience playing on some of the world’s most renowned courses over a 25-year career. His personal involvement in every aspect of the design process ensures that each course bears his unique touch from conception to completion. Currently, Greg Norman is also CEO of LIV Golf Investments.

One of Norman’s defining principles is his unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. His “least disturbance” design philosophy prioritizes the preservation of the natural landscape, seamlessly integrating each course with its surroundings. This dedication reflects a broader ethos of responsibility towards customers, communities, and the surroundings, inspiring a sense of environmental consciousness and responsibility in every golfer.

Real Club de Golf El Prat

Real Club de Golf El Prat, situated in Spain, boasts a rich history from 1912. Founded as the Barcelona Golf Club, it adopted the “Real” prefix following a visit from King Alfonso XIII. The club’s relocation to its site in Bonvilar in 1997 marked a new chapter. Greg Norman lent his expertise to craft 45 challenging yet harmonious holes, seamlessly blending the course with the picturesque surroundings.

The club’s sporting excellence is underscored by its numerous accolades, including hosting the Open de España de Golf on ten occasions. Beyond its competitive edge, Real Club de Golf El Prat offers a range of amenities catering to families and enthusiasts, ensuring a holistic golfing experience. In addition, it is one of the most chosen locations among the wide range of Tee Times golf Agency offer for those looking for the best packages for their Spain golf holidays.

Infinitum Golf Club

Infinitum Golf Club, another gem in Norman’s European portfolio, features 45 holes (27 designed by Norman) spread across three distinct courses. With its 18 holes meandering around the Sequia Major wetlands, Lakes offers a challenging yet rewarding experience amidst a protected natural habitat. On the other hand, Ruins presents a unique juxtaposition of golf and history, with nine holes winding through ancient Roman archaeological remains. Both were designed by Norman.

Norman’s designs at Infinitum Golf Club exemplify his ability to create courses that test players’ skills and immerse them in captivating surroundings, showcasing the diverse beauty of the Spanish landscape.

Greg Norman’s influence extends far beyond his legendary playing career. Through his visionary approach to golf course design, he has left an enduring legacy, shaping the way golf is played and experienced around the world, including the picturesque landscapes of Europe, where his designs at Real Club de Golf El Prat and Infinitum Golf Club captivate golfers of all levels looking for unforgettable Spain golf breaks.

 

Principal photo by: Greg Norman Golf Course Design

Sustainable renovations at Real Club La Moraleja improve playability and efficiency

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The Real Club La Moraleja has recently completed a comprehensive renovation of its Course 2, significantly reducing water and maintenance needs by approximately 30%.

The Real Club La Moraleja, located in the Community of Madrid, boasts a rich history since its founding in 1973. With its four 18-hole golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, the club has hosted prestigious competitions such as the World Cup of Golf and the Spanish Open. Course 2, opened in 1990 and developed by Nicklaus Design under the direction of architect Ron Kirby, is a challenging layout with large lakes affecting several holes, transforming it into a unique and challenging golf course.

La Moraleja is one of the most prestigious golf clubs in Europe and has been chosen by many Tee Times Golf Agency clients, to whom we have offered the best golf and tourism packages for their Spain golf holidays.

Real Club La Moraleja Course 2 renovation

Reopened on April 13th, the 9-second holes of Course 2 had been closed since November for renovations, including an overhaul of the irrigation system, levelling and alignment of all tees, renovation of the 15th and 16th hole lakes, total remodelling of bunkers on holes 12, 13, and 15, and the creation of new gravel areas around several tees.

According to Íñigo Angulo, Director of Golf at Real Club La Moraleja, this significant two-phase renovation, with the first phase targeting holes 1 to 9 last year, aims to provide a more sustainable course with improved playing conditions year-round. “The new irrigation system, modern and tailored to the current turf structure of the course, will ensure better coverage and uniformity, ultimately enhancing playing conditions,” adds Tony Bonnett, Head Greenkeeper at Real Club La Moraleja, in dialogue with the prestigious media platform www.golfindustria.es.

With these renovations completed, the Spanish Golf Federation will conduct a new assessment of Course 2’s layout, and the club will adjust hole handicaps based on recent competition results.

The renovation work, including irrigation system replacement and lake refurbishment, was undertaken by specialized contractors GTM Golf and Garden & Golf. At the same time, other improvements were handled by the club’s maintenance team.

Furthermore, the renovation involved redefining non-play areas, incorporating gravel surfaces to reduce turf coverage, fostering sustainability, and lowering maintenance demands.

Completion of bunker renovations on holes 12, 13, and 15 marks the final phase of comprehensive bunker upgrades, focusing on playability, aesthetics, and sustainability.

Reseeding with Agrostis stolonifera is planned for the coming summer, with continuing efforts to improve turf quality and resilience against disease and ensure long-term course viability amidst evolving environmental regulations.

Club La Moraleja’s sustainable renovations signify a commitment to environmental stewardship while enhancing the golfing experience for members and visitors alike. Now comes the turn of the golfers, eager to discover and enjoy the new design of the course.