Europe’s leading sports resort for more than 40 years, the allure of Spain’s La Manga Club remains as big as ever for golfers and the famous venue has won new acclaim after being named in Golf World’s benchmark ‘Top 100 Courses in Continental Europe 2015/16’ rankings.
Following another notable 12 months which has included the opening of a new Leadbetter Golf Academy – the only one of its kind in Spain – the luxury Murcian resort is celebrating further success after its West Course was a new entry at number 93 in the prestigious biennial list.
The newest of La Manga Club’s three 18-hole layouts, the 6,347-yard, par-72 West Course was created by Dave Thomas and opened in 1996, and the tree-lined design provides the ideal contrast to its older siblings at the resort – the South and North.
Chris Bertram, the Top 100 editor, said: “That La Manga Club has an entry is not a great surprise as one of the best-known resorts in Europe. That it is the West will likely raise an eyebrow.
“Even some golfers who have been to La Manga Club might not have played here , for it is tucked away from the main complex; but if you are heading for this Murcia resort, don’t miss it. It is tight and exacting, but is a refreshingly different experience.”
Respected Golf Channel commentator Dougie Donnelly, a regular visitor to La Manga Club, said: “There surely can’t be many resorts anywhere in the world that offer better facilities and three more varied tests of golf. My favourite, though, is Dave Thomas’ West, which is a joy from start to finish.
“This is a strategic test where you won’t hit driver until the sixth hole, and only two or three times after that. And finally you climb to the 18th, one of my favourite tee shots anywhere in the world. It’s a stunning finish to a course which is a real test, but also great fun to play.”
Set in an area three times the size of Monaco, La Manga Club’s golf facilities include three 18-hole courses, a nine-hole academy course and outstanding practice amenities, while its array of other outstanding sports and leisure amenities, bars and restaurants have helped establish it as a firm favourite with visiting golfers.
Widely regarded as Spain’s flagship resort, recent accolades have included being named as Spain’s leading golf complex at the 2014 World Golf Awards and being voted ‘Best Golf Resort in Spain’ by UK readers of Today’s Golfer magazine for the last four years.
As well as golf, the resort’s extensive facilities also include a 28-court tennis academy, a new High Performance Sports Centre and 2,000m² spa and fitness complex, a five-star hotel, four-star serviced apartments and townhouses and more than 20 bars and restaurants.
La Manga Club www.lamangaclub.com