This island might be the ultimate golf holiday destination

For holiday makers all over the world, the Spanish island of Gran Canaria is a favourite destination. And when you look at what it has to offer, it really is no wonder.

Stunning beaches, glorious food and beautiful scenery, the island is the perfect retreat to kick back and enjoy the sunshine. That’s before we’ve even mentioned golf.

Gran Canaria’s choice of golf courses are almost unrivalled. Pristine conditions, enjoyable layouts and the sun on your back. What more can you ask for?

• This golf resort should be near the top of your 2025 golf list

• Vidago Palace: The ultimate luxury golf stay in Portugal

Real Club de Golf de Las Palmas is a prestigious, must play venue in Gran Canaria, because it’s not just the oldest in the region, but in the whole of Spain. Founded in 1891, the course sits 400m above sea level on the edge of the Caldera Bandama, an ancient, inactive volcano.

It’s no surprise that former Ryder Cup star Rafa Cabrera Bello frequents this place when he’s back home. It is a beautiful setting for a course that is held to an elite standard. Then there’s the beautiful Anfi Tauro on the south coast of the island. This modern layout comes with all the features of a TPC style course in Arizona, while enjoying that unbeatable Gran Canaria backdrop.

Maspalomas, another fine design, is set close to the sea and enjoys a breeze that comes in from the water. This is a par-73, and it’s not a particularly challenging one either. You can tell it’s set up for holiday golf – it’s a great opportunity to stroll around and make some birdies. Meanwhile, the Salobre masterpiece reopened in October 2022, and is one of the most exciting developments on the island.

• Half Moon Bay Golf Links: A bucket-list venue in California

• 5 of the best Gil Hanse golf courses around the world

Salobre now consists of three loops of play, with nine holes from the New Course, and 18 holes of the Old Course combining to give golfers a thrilling, unique test. Meloneras Golf by Lopesan, in the south, is famed for its two unique nines: one with stunning mountain views, and the other with blissful views of Meloneras Bay.

Of course, every golf course here enjoys great scenery, but the back nine here runs parallel to the water, making it a unique round on the island.

Meanwhile, if you have friends and family who haven’t yet caught the golf bug, worry not. Gran Canaria has so much more to offer. It remains one of the best value destinations in Europe, and its location makes it ideal for those seeking some sun.

This featured in our 2025 Travel Guide. For more content like this, click here, and to never miss an issue, click here.