Golf Guide to Alicante

Alicante is a Golfer's Paradise. With so many courses to choose from, you'll be spoiled for choice. From the highly respected La Finca and Melia Villaitana, to the championship courses Las Colinas and Lo Romero, there's something for everyone. And with 11 courses within 45 minutes, you can easily book a golf tour and make the most of your trip.

When you consider the warm climate that typically produces over 300 days of sunshine a year, easy flight access from the majority of UK airports, you have a wonderful destination for golf – regardless of season. Alicante has propelled itself as a serious golfing location and thanks to their wonderfully kept courses, innovative designs and excellent facilities, this region of Spain continues to grow in popularity to travelling golfers.

Alenda was designed by Roland Favrat and the designer leaned heavily on the natural landscape of the land while providing excellent putting surfaces. Font Del Llop is located closely to Alicante Airport and the American design of the course will encourage accurate approach shots and excellent green reading skills. Alicante golf Club first opened its doors in 1998 and this Seve Ballesteros design will have you running back to the first tee after completing your round. Villaitana proudly boast two championship courses and while they are of medium length, it is the golfer’s short game that will ultimately decide if they score well or not. La Finca encourages the opening of the shoulders as the wide fairways offer forgiveness off the tee. However, the uniquely shaped greens will test the golfer’s putting. Finally, Las Ramblas was built into the natural landscape of its surroundings and the generous greens will offer up plenty of birdie opportunities.

Golf Resorts

Considering the sheer amount of courses available in Alicante, it should come as little surprise to learn that the resorts mirror the golf’s quality. There are several to choose from with plenty offering golf as part of the package. Whether you’re looking for a resort that incorporates everything or somewhere more relaxed and out of the way, Alicante can supply it all.

La Finca Resort is a 5* hotel that boasts a golf course, a spa and additional golfing trips. If you book through GolfBreaks, you’ll also be entitled to an exclusive ‘Golfers Upgrade’ that, for a small supplement, will see discounted prices for buggies and room upgrades. Melia Villaitana is located only 20 minutes from Alicante Airport and both of the golf courses belonging to the resort have been designed by Jack Nicklaus. Hotel Bonalba is situated only 200 yards from the first tee at Bonalba Golf course and the evening entertainment is suited to both families and couples. Las Colinas is a quieter complex and you can book rounds at Las Colinas Golf Club directly through the resort.

Alicante is a safe and frequently visited district of Spain and all areas are highly recommended. However, El Centro, Postiguet Beach, Cape Huertas, San Juan Beach and Albufereta Beach are all popular destinations to stay in and around.

Alicante offers an array of activities to do, which is best highlighted by the prevalent Spanish culture that dominates the area. Alongside this is shopping, leisure centres and local businesses. The city is famous for its sandy beaches, festivals and lively nightlife – which has helped it transition into one of Europe’s main holiday destinations.

The Climate

Typically, the summers are hot, clear and muggy in Alicante while the winters are long, cool, cloudy and windy. It is dry all year round with limited rainfall and the temperature varies from 7°C to 31°C. It seldom drops below 3°C or above 34°C.

The hottest season usually lasts three months, from June 20 to September 21. The average daily high during this period is 28°C. The cooler season has a duration of 4 months, and it’s typically from November 21 to March 22 with an average high of 17°C and low of 7°C.

During the warmer periods, there are few clouds in the sky. However, as the weather begins to cool, the climate is more prone to clouds with an average of 44% in the sky. There is minimal rain during the peak season, however, the nine month period away from that is susceptible to the occasional shower or downpour.

  Local Time

Alicante is one hour ahead of the UK.

  Local Currency

The local currency is the euro and there are plenty of ATMs, banks and bureaux de change.

Alicante International Airport will accommodate flights from the majority of UK airports. Considering this, travelling to and from the region is as simple as booking a flight on your electronic devices. The average flight time from London to Alicante is two hours and 20 minutes, meaning you won’t spend an excessive amount of time on the flights too.

Travel Information

Upon arrival, you will need to arrange transport from the airport to your accommodation. While private taxis operate throughout the area, you may also be able to secure transport through your booking. If none of the above applies, then the C-6 Bus Line is the only public transport that connects Alicante Airport to the city centre. The line operates all year round and buses typically depart every half an hour. The trip should take no longer than 25 minutes and the average price for a single journey is €3.85.

The area is littered in historical relevance and away from the golf course, there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied throughout the duration of your holiday. Whether indulging in local history, spending days at the marvellous Postiguet Beach or heading into the old-town is your thing, then Alicante has it all.

Things to do

The district of Alicante is an extremely revered part of Spain and one that truly highlights the Spanish culture. Away from the seriously impressive golf courses are endless activities to keep you and the family entertained. Whether you enjoy Spanish food; long walks along the oceanfront; partying the night away or are looking for a more romantic setting, Alicante proudly has it all.

Castle of Santa Barbara

This castle was constructed over 1000 years ago and holds deep and meaningful historical importance. It has seen conflict on its premises and it was named after Saint Barbara, who had managed to recapture the building after Castilian forces had initially seized the castle. Its quaint setting will provide extraordinary views of the Mediterranean Sea and tours of the castle are available for as little as €3 per person.

Postiguet Beach

Situated near the old-town lies Postiguet Beach, an attractive sandy beach with crystal clear water. While it may be a popular spot throughout the summer, there are plenty of refreshment options available considering its close proximity to the bustling old-town. The depth of the sea doesn’t get too deep until you venture relatively far into the water, which provides the perfect environment for children to swim or even begin the learning process.

Mercado Central

If you are a fan of food and sampling new cuisines, then a trip to Mercado Central should be on the top of your priority list. The extensive array of food options will cater to everybody and they all operate from a market booth, making ordering simple with ample seating arrangements for you to enjoy your food. The seafood stalls truly steal the show and with so much option, an adventure to Mercado Central will see you justly rewarded.

Boat Trips

While mainland Alicante is simply sensational, the true beauty of the area is further highlighted by undergoing one of many available boat trips. There are several companies that offer such services, so securing a seat should not be an issue. However, if you are looking to visit one of the surrounding islands, then Tabarca Island should pique your interest. There is a small community who reside on the island and the landmarks will truly take your breath away. If you’re seeking an adventurous day out, then Tabarca Island or any boat trip should offer just that.

Dining

We have all been exposed to Spanish food for quite some time, with many tapas bars opening and Spanish-inspired dishes becoming frequent meals in countless homes across the country. However, to taste this exquisite cuisine cooked from actual countrymen/women of the country responsible is unbeatable. Below, we provide four recommendations of eateries within the vicinity of Alicante.

Velvet

Velvet understand the importance of high quality food and when you couple that in with the exceptional service on offer from staff that are evidently passionate about the role that they do, you are guaranteed an excellent evening. From fantastic meat options to fresh fish and green vegetables, the menu accommodates all tastes. Considering it is well priced, this is a venue not for the tastebuds but for the wallet too.

El Portal

El Portal is one of the premium eateries that are situated in Alicante and while the price may be a touch more than the typical restaurant within the area, the taste immediately justifies that additional expense. There is a wide range of food available and the extensive wine options will leave you thinking carefully about your next step before you depart this arena of fine dining.

!Chico Calla!

While the food is fantastic and the service is welcoming, the interior of Chico Calla is what truly steals the show. It is obvious that a lot of thought has gone into the design of the interior, and it provides a relaxing environment to unwind after spending the day in the scorching Spanish sun. With plentiful tapas options stocked and ready to serve, you’ll seldom find a better Spanish eatery than what Chico Calla are offering.

Sudeste

If you’re not looking for a full traditional meal then Sudeste provide excellent snacky bits while also offering a relaxed and cosy environment. While the options on the menu aren’t overly extensive, you’ll still find common favourites such as tuna tartare, pulled pork and a few vegetarian options. Sudeste is best suited for shorter visits but its unique setting will make the food taste all that sweeter.