Escape the rain in Spain

Fed up of the rain? Sick of wearing waterproofs? Well, you can feel safe in the knowledge that the rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain – and that doesn’t include La Manga. With three great courses it has been voted Europe’s top golf resort three times in the past five years.

Clear skies and warm temperatures will soon put you in a holiday frame of mind and there are enough activities, events, restaurants and bars to fill every second. Of the three courses on offer the South is the best known having staged the Spanish Open on five occasions – Arnold Palmer famously won here in 1975 thanks to a closing eagle – and European Tour
Qualifying School as well as plenty of other prestigious men’s, women’s and Pro-Am events.

Part of its history also includes having five-time Major winner Seve Ballesteros as their touring professional during his most successful period. Being located in the centre of the valley means there are stunning views from every hole and a recent upgrade has made it even more special.

Originally designed by Robert Putnam and modified in the 1990s by Palmer, the 7,100-yard layout features water on 15 of the 18 holes. Well-placed bunkers, trees and ‘barrancas’ (storm gullies) all add to the challenge. Good shots, though, are invariably rewarded by running fairways and superb, true, holding greens.

The 11th would be my standout hole with a mid-to-long iron needed for the approach over water to a sloping green that offers no guarantees of a two-putt. The finishing hole, the fifth par five on the par-73 track, also asks all the right questions with trouble left, right and short – anything from an eagle to something in double figures can result.

But the beauty of the South is that every hole is a challenge and the condition of the course throughout is nothing short of outstanding. With the North and West Courses – designed by Putman and Dave Thomas respectively – both superb if less demanding alternatives, La Manga Club has the potential for either a short break or a longer holiday.

Nothing is left to chance at La Manga Club and, with Murcia airport 30 minutes away and Alicante just an hour away, you can leave in the morning and be on the tee by mid-afternoon. Perfect.