Murcia on Par
GOLF has become one of Murcia’s standout tourism products, bringing in over €600 million annually and helping to extend the visitor season beyond the summer months. With a growing number of players and top-quality courses, the region has positioned itself as a leading destination for golfers, particularly from the UK, its largest international market.
The appeal is clear: Murcia combines world-class courses, luxurious resorts, a Mediterranean climate, and a traditional local culture, offering visitors an experience that goes beyond the sport. Popular venues like La Manga Club, Mar Menor Golf Resort, and Roda Golf showcase the region’s ability to cater to every type of golfer, from seasoned players to families seeking a sporty getaway.
Golf tourism is also a major job creator, supporting hotels, restaurants, transport, and other local services, and it plays a key role in reducing the seasonal swings of the tourism industry. In 2024, regional courses recorded more than 500,000 rounds played, with nearly 300,000 in just the first half of 2025, a 6 per cent rise on the previous year.
Accessibility helps, too. Direct flights from London, Manchester, Bristol, and Birmingham make it easy for British visitors to reach Murcia, reinforcing its competitiveness in the Mediterranean market. Each season, more golfers discover why Murcia offers not just top courses, but a complete experience of sport, sunshine, and relaxation.
A Growing Market With International Appeal
Murcia’s golf scene has evolved rapidly over the last two decades, transforming from a niche offering into a major pillar of the region’s tourism strategy. What began as a small cluster of courses has grown into a network of high-quality facilities that attract players year-round. For many visitors—especially those escaping colder climates—Murcia’s 300 days of sunshine offer the chance to enjoy the sport even in winter, when much of northern Europe is wrapped in frost.
The UK continues to be the largest international market, but Murcia is also seeing an increase in visitors from Ireland, Scandinavia, Belgium and the Netherlands. Many of these travellers return annually, drawn not only by the sport but also by the warm hospitality and relaxed lifestyle that define the region.
Tour operators and travel agencies specialising in golf breaks have also contributed to the rise in demand, offering tailored packages that include accommodation, tee times and local experiences. This growing ecosystem has helped Murcia strengthen its reputation as one of Europe’s most welcoming and convenient destinations for golfers.
The Importance of Year-Round Tourism
One of the biggest advantages of golf tourism is its ability to break the seasonal pattern that coastal regions often experience. While sun-and-beach tourism tends to peak in July and August, golfers arrive steadily throughout the year, especially in spring and autumn when playing conditions are ideal.
This consistent flow of visitors gives local businesses much-needed stability. Hotels enjoy higher occupancy levels beyond the summer season, restaurants welcome a steady stream of customers, and transport companies—from car rentals to airport taxis—benefit from greater demand. It’s a chain reaction that supports the wider economy and brings added value to communities across Murcia.
Golf resorts themselves often employ hundreds of staff, from maintenance teams and hospitality workers to instructors and event organisers. Many also host tournaments and corporate events, giving the region additional exposure and attracting visitors who may not have considered Murcia before.
Courses That Cater to Every Type of Player
Murcia’s strength lies not just in the number of its golf courses but in their variety. Players can choose between championship-level layouts designed by renowned architects and more relaxed, family-friendly courses perfect for beginners.
La Manga Club remains one of the flagship destinations, offering multiple courses, luxury accommodation, and a long-standing reputation in the international golf world. Mar Menor Golf Resort and Roda Golf continue to impress with excellent facilities, scenic fairways, and easy access to the coast.
Many courses are integrated within residential and holiday communities, making them ideal for longer stays or golf-focused escapes. Visitors often combine their rounds with spa treatments, local wine tastings, cycling routes, or visits to Murcia’s cultural landmarks. This blend of leisure activities strengthens the region’s reputation as a place where sport and lifestyle come together effortlessly.
Murcian Culture Adds to the Experience
While the quality of the courses is a major draw, many visitors say it’s Murcia’s charm that brings them back. After a day on the fairways, golfers can enjoy tapas on a sunny terrace, explore historic towns like Cartagena and Lorca, or take a stroll along the Mar Menor—Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon.
Traditional markets, local fiestas, and the friendly atmosphere of small towns give visitors a sense of authentic Spain. For many, this combination of world-class sport and genuine cultural experiences is what sets Murcia apart from other Mediterranean destinations.
Easy Access Keeps Visitors Coming
Accessibility is another key factor behind Murcia’s success. Regular flights from London, Manchester, Bristol, and Birmingham make it simple for UK travellers to book a last-minute break or a long weekend getaway. Murcia International Airport’s modern facilities, short queues and quick transfers to the main golf resorts further enhance the overall experience.
New flight connections in recent years have also opened the door for travellers from other European cities, helping Murcia diversify its tourism base.
A Bright Future for Murcia’s Golf Sector
With demand continuing to rise, Murcia’s golf industry is expected to remain one of the region’s strongest tourism drivers. Ongoing investment in course maintenance, hospitality upgrades, and sustainability initiatives is helping ensure that the sector grows responsibly and remains competitive.
As more golfers discover what Murcia has to offer—world-class courses, sunshine, culture and unbeatable value—the region looks set to stay firmly on par with the best golfing destinations in Europe.
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