Mar Menor Golf Resort
This 18 hole, par 72 course is located only 15 minutes’ drive from San Javier airport and the beaches of the Mar Menor.
It is close to the town of Torre Pacheco on land that was previously a fruit orchard, and includes a nine hole golf course that was designed by Dave Thomas, but which has been extended to an eighteen hole layout – the additional holes designed by Jack Nicklaus golf. Although the new holes were opened approx 2 years after the course was opened it is difficult to see the join, as the new holes have been fully integrated and combined with the existing holes. This results in a par 72 course of 5,801 metres (6,381 yards), which is relatively short by modern standards, but with three lakes positioned on both 9s, things are kept interesting.
Without doubt, this is an ideal course, with an emphasis on positioning the ball in the correct part of the fairway from the tee and then below the flags on the undulating greens. The four par-5 holes are reachable for the longer hitters, with the 6th hole being the longest at 477 metres (525 yards) for yellow tees. The par-3 holes are all medium- to long-length. The 17th is the shortest at 140 metres (154 yards) for yellow tees.
Some of the earlier holes can lull you into a false sense of security, but when you reach holes 13, 14 and 15 (all of which wrap themselves around a water trap), you are quickly brought to your senses. In particular, the 15th hole will test your patience as the small landing areas from the tees are well guarded by sand bunkers. One, in particular, runs almost the entire length of the hole on the left-hand side, right up to the green. You can play this hole in a number of ways: by “letting the big dog eat”; or by playing two medium irons from tee and then to green.
This course is relatively flat and is walkable for those that consider themselves fit. It is enjoyable for all standards of golfer.
The lush Mediterranean landscape full of palm trees, native grasses and flowering shrubs adds to the beauty of the resort as a whole, and walking or buggying it is a pleasure.
Directions
Travelling on the AP7 motorway from the north (direction Cartagena) or from the south (direction Alicante) take exit 790 for Los Alcazares (centro) and follow the signposts for Torre Pacheco. Continue directly ahead on this road and over a few roundabouts. Turn right when you see the sign and follow the signs for the resort. The entrance to the resort is on the left after 800 yards or so.
Villa at Mar Menor golf course, Murcia
Course and Clubhouse Facilities and Services
The clubhouse and pro-shop are incorporated as part of the large hotel building. As you would expect, the facilities are excellent, with large changing rooms, toilets and shower facilities, stud bar and access to the El Olivo and AQVA restaurants. There is an adequately stocked golf shop where you can hire buggies, electric trolleys and golf clubs. The practice facilities are good, with a driving range and a practice putting green with tuition available from fully qualified golf coaches.
For more information on properties for sale in Mar Menor Golf Resort please contact hugh@murciavillas.com