Enjoy playing golf in your free time? Why not check out this privileged location to practice your hobby?
Galicia in northeastern Spain. A Region that is not normally associated with golfing destinations but offers courses set in pine forests, at pleasant spa resorts or links courses with breathtaking views of the coast. Admire the surroundings while you practise your swing in some of the most peaceful surroundings.
Between Cantabrian and Atlantic breezes, this unique location is the perfect destination for lovers of stunning countryside and golf. The climate and countryside here are ideal for building golf courses in naturally green areas where the weather is fantastic and not too hot in summer. A real treat for the eyes, highly recommended while you have some healthy fun playing golf and enjoying the fresh air.
There are many golf courses to be found throughout Galicia. That is why, whether you are looking to perfect your stroke on city courses, courses on the coast or right in the mountains, then Galicia is the place for you. If you love the sea, I would recommend the Pontevedra area. There you can find, the La Toja Golf Club, with its magnificent views of the coast, is particularly outstanding. See for yourself how the green seems to extend right into the sea. And don't forget to admire the view of Vigo Estuary from the course by the Clubhouse there.
If you prefer inland options, then make for the A Coruña, Lugo and Orense areas. Many of the clubs there, 
such as Golf de Lugo and the Monte-Castrove Foundation (Pontevedra province), have courses with ancient trees and natural lakes as obstacles.
The motto of golf in Galicia could be: "No one should be left without a round". The variety of the courses here (9- and 18-hole) mean that you can have a fun day playing whatever your level or handicap. There are ever more courses on offer, with everything from broad fairways (like those at La Coruña Golf Club), to narrow, winding courses with numerous obstacles (like the one at Real Aero Club de Santiago).
If you have never played golf, don't worry, because at many courses in Galicia there are courses for beginners and experts, adults and children. You will also find modern installations and services such as club hire, buggy hire, putting greens and driving ranges to practise, pitch & putt, and golf pro shops.
If you love golf but your family have other preferences, then no problem either. Some courses in Galicia, like the one at Balneario de Guitiriz Golf Club (Lugo province) or Golf Balneario de Mondariz (Pontevedra province), are alongside spa resorts where your family can rest and relax in thermal waters while you have a round. What is more, in Galicia you can do a range of other sports like kayaking, paragliding, hiking, horse riding, fishing…
Make the most of your trip by visiting emblematic locations such as the Old City of Santiago de Compostela or Lugo City Walls, both UNESCO-designated World Heritage sites. Enjoy its stunning beaches, its six nature reserves and the Atlantic Islands National Park. Above all, remember to savour the exquisite regional cuisine.
Galicia is one of Spain's great regions.
[Contributed by J.L Williams]