Spain | Canary Islands | Gran Canaria
Highlights
Sunny climate (no extremes), low rainfall but can be windy
A few places to visit
We decided on a hotel at Taurito, about forty minutes from the airport (by car). Although not the ideal location for ease of access to the golf courses it was much quieter (at the time of our review) than some of the other resorts and we were able to park our car on the road just outside the hotel.
We were put into fourballs at the resort courses, playing with couples from England, Sweden and Switzerland (twice) and were able to play as a two ball at both of the private members clubs.
Golf courses
Apart from from Real Club de Golf de Las Palmas which is near Bandama (exit off the GC-4) all other courses are easily accessible from the GC-1.
From Las Palmas going south (and then west) the other courses are El Cortijo, Maspalomas, Meloneras, Solobre (two courses) and lastly Anfi Tauro (next door to Peurto Rico, our closest course).
Features
Our opinion
Up there with the best Gran Canaria has to offer, although not quite at the top but well worth the effort.
Not the most challenging course but very much of a bygone age, if that is your thing.
Features
Our opinion
We had mixed feelings on this course perhaps more to do with the setting than the course itself, although not as well manicured as some of the other resort courses.
However, with those reservations in mind, a good test of golf with some interesting holes and plenty of water to negotiate.
Features
Our opinion
We were told by staff that the course was very easy, being relatively flat.
It appears to be one of the most popular courses, although we found it not as challenging or interesting as the other courses on the island. However, worth the visit, just so you can say you have played it!
Features
Our opinion
This course is next to the sea with some stunning views along the coastline. It also has many changes in elevation to keep you guessing which makes for an interesting and challenging round of golf.
This is one course we would want to play again.
Features
Our opinion
With ravines to cross, drop off areas to the side of fairways and shots into the abyss, playing this course can be a bit like a rollercoaster ride, never knowing where the next intake of breath may come.
Plot your way around the course (mostly with an iron) and have plenty of golf balls in reserve just in case.
Features
Our opinion
The Solobre Old (South) course is what you expect from a quality golf resort. A challenging course, with plenty of features to keep your interest peaked.
Unlike the newer course, the old course has more fairway to play with on many of the holes, although that is not to say there can be a few hair raising moments, with rocky outcrops to catch a slightly wayward shot. If in doubt, hit a trusty iron!
Features
Our opinion
Perhaps the course with the most dramatic features on the island and a well manicured resort to go with it. Situated next door to Peurto Rico, another tourist destination with it's harbour and numerous resort hotels.
This is a very challenging course and similar in some respects to the Solobre resort courses, although perhaps a bit more dramatic. One of our favourites.
The mountains of Gran Canaria. Not for those scared of heights.
We took time out from golf to venture inland and see the sights, worth the effort if you have plenty of time to spare.
Another bend. Anything coming?
Driving on single track roads in any mountain terrain is not for the faint hearted but when traffic passing in the opposite direction comprises buses, coaches and lorries going about their daily business it makes for some hair raising moments.
Artenara. Highest village.
With so many villages in Gran Canaria high up in the mountains, Artenara being the highest at 1,270 metres you have to admire the tenacity of those that live there. When taking a trip from any of the resort hotels to anywhere near the centre of the island allow a whole day, if you want to spend any time looking around.
Degollada de La Yegua.
Looking West.
Looking North.
Second viewpoint.
Looking back.
Roque Nublo area.
Another valley.
Bandama crater.
View towards Las Palmas.
View from Pico de las Nieves (1,949 metres).
Coming down from Tejeda.
Short stop on way down to Mogán.