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Essential golf gear you can’t skip for your golfing holidays

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As you prepare for an exciting golf adventure during the summer, ensuring your golf bag is equipped with the proper equipment is crucial to a successful and enjoyable trip. At Tee Times Golf Agency, we have the best packages for an unforgettable holiday in Spain and Portugal, and we know that essential golf gear is critical. From clubs to apparel and accessories, here’s a comprehensive guide to assembling your fundamental golf gear for a week-long golfing excursion in these beautiful destinations.

Golf clubs

Begin by selecting your golf clubs. Ensure your bag is stocked with a driver, fairway woods, hybrids, irons, wedges, and putter. Tailor your club selection to the courses you’ll be playing on. For example, if you’re tackling links courses, consider including a higher lofted wedge to navigate the firm terrain and bunkers. Rest assured, these are all top-quality clubs that will enhance your game.

Golf bag

Opt for a lightweight yet durable golf bag with enough storage space for your clubs, golf balls, tees, and accessories. Look for a bag with comfortable straps and ample pockets to organize your belongings efficiently. Consider a stand bag for added convenience during rounds.

Important: With Tee Times Golf Agency, you can rent your golf clubs anywhere in Portugal and Spain, making your luggage lighter when travelling.

Golf balls and tees

Pack ample golf balls to last you through the week, accounting for the possibility of losing some during rounds. On average, golfers lose about 1-2 balls per round, so we suggest packing at least 10-14 balls for a week-long trip.

Golf apparel

Pack lightweight and breathable golf clothing suitable for warm summer weather. Include moisture-wicking polo shirts, golf shorts, trousers, and comfortable golf shoes with good grip. For the courses in Spain and Portugal, which often have undulating fairways and fast greens, we recommend spikeless golf shoes for better traction and stability.

Accessories

Load up on essential golf gear and accessories such as a glove, a divot repair tool, ball markers, a rangefinder or GPS device for accurate yardages, and a towel to keep your equipment clean. Consider packing sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays during long hours on the course.

Personal items

Remember to pack personal items such as sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from the sun’s glare, a water bottle to stay hydrated, snacks for energy during rounds, and any necessary medications.

Travel essentials

Lastly, make sure you have all your travel documents, including your passport, airline tickets, hotel reservations, and travel insurance, organized and easily accessible. By following this practical guide and packing your bag with the essential golf gear outlined above, you’ll be fully prepared to conquer the stunning golf courses of Spain and Portugal while enjoying a memorable golfing vacation in the summer sunshine.

If you want more information and advice about your essential golf gear for your vacation, we invite you to read our article: Tips for taking your golf bag on your golf holidays.

Take advantage of the opportunity to explore new courses during your holidays. Spain and Portugal are home to some of the most stunning golf courses in Europe, offering a mix of parkland and links courses with breathtaking views. Soak in the scenery with Tee Times Golf Agency, make unforgettable memories on your golfing journey, and may your swings be straight and true!

 

Photo by: Depositphotos

Beyond the green: Arnold Palmer’s enduring influence in Portugal and Spain

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Arnold Palmer, the iconic golfer known as “The King,” left an enduring legacy on the Iberian Peninsula by designing two remarkable golf courses: Victoria Golf Course in Portugal and La Manga South in Spain. Palmer’s influence transcends the sport, shaping the accessibility and popularity of golf worldwide.

Palmer’s impact outperforms his achievements on the green. Alongside Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, he formed the legendary “Big Three,” revolutionizing golf’s perception and accessibility. From humble beginnings to global stardom, Palmer’s influence reshaped golf, democratizing it from an elitist pastime to a sport accessible to all.

With seven major championships to his name, including four Masters titles, Palmer’s prowess on the course remains unmatched. Yet, his enduring legacy as a pioneer, ambassador, and golf champion continues to inspire generations of players and enthusiasts worldwide. Arnold Palmer’s mark on the Iberian Peninsula and the world of golf will forever be a testament to his permanent heritage.

Arnold Palmer & Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa

Perched amidst the verdant golf courses, the undulating hills of Calblanque Regional Park, and the azure Mediterranean Sea, Grand Hyatt La Manga Club Golf & Spa stands as a beacon of exclusive leisure and unparalleled excellence. With three golf courses, including one designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer, world-class tennis and paddle facilities, tantalizing culinary experiences, and a rejuvenating Arabic-inspired spa, the resort promises to create unforgettable moments exclusively for its esteemed guests.

La Manga South, a collaborative masterpiece between Arnold Palmer and Robert Putnam, boasts a superb 18-hole championship course, presenting a unique tapestry of challenges and scenic landscapes. With water hazards, spacious fairways, doglegs, and strategically placed bunkers, it caters to golfers of all levels, promising an intriguing and exhilarating game. The resort’s golf academy ensures top-notch instruction for beginners to seasoned players, reflecting Palmer’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering the sport’s growth.

Palmer’s storied history with La Manga also dates back to 1975 when he clinched victory at the Open de España, a triumph immortalized by his daring shot across La Manga South’s famed lake, now known as the “Gran Lago Palmer.” This fearless spirit and prowess epitomize Palmer’s enduring legacy.

Victoria Golf Course

Meanwhile, Victoria Golf Course in Algarve, a Palmer masterpiece, bid farewell in December 2023 after nearly two decades of challenging play. Renovations totalling 17 million euros are underway, with renowned golfer Ernie Els crafting a new course set to reopen in February 2025. This closure marks the end of an era for a course that hosted prestigious tournaments such as the Portugal Masters and the 2005 World Cup, leaving behind a rich legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of golf enthusiasts.

Arnold Palmer’s legacy is proud and infinite for those of us at Tee Times Golf Agency. For this reason, we recommend everyone to give themselves the pleasure of playing in La Manga and enjoy one of the best offers for the Spain golf holidays. Meanwhile, we eagerly await the reopening of the Victoria Golf Course, which will undoubtedly be the new jewel of Portuguese golf.

Photo by: No Está Dada.

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.