Barcelona isn’t just architecture, tapas, and beaches — it’s home (and gateway) to some truly excellent golf. Whether you stay in the city or use it as a base to explore Catalonia, there are courses that combine scenic beauty, technical challenge, and cultural richness. Here’s a look at what makes golf in the Barcelona area special — and which courses you should aim to play.
🏌️ Why Golf in the Barcelona Region Is Special
Before we dive into specific courses, here’s what sets this region apart:
- Climate & seasonality: The Mediterranean climate gives you mild winters and playable conditions most of the year.
- Variety in terrain: You’ll find coastal layouts, forested hills, and courses with rolling terrain — not just flat parkland.
- Proximity to culture: You can mix rounds with trips to Gaudí, tapas dinners, seaside walks, and Catalan villages.
- Strong golf infrastructure: Many clubs in the region maintain high standards, with good amenities and memberships that welcome visitor tee times.
With that in mind, here are some of the top courses near Barcelona, and what makes them stand out.
🎯 Top Golf Courses in the Barcelona Area
1. Real Club de Golf El Prat
Why it’s often ranked #1 around Barcelona
- Located just ~30 minutes from Barcelona, El Prat boasts 45 holes across multiple layouts. Real Club de Golf El Prat – Barcelona
- The club features two main championship courses (Pink and Yellow) designed by Greg Norman. Real Club de Golf El Prat – Barcelona+1
- It has hosted the Spanish Open on ten occasions — a testament to its quality and reputation. Real Club de Golf El Prat – Barcelona
- Recently, it was ranked #6 in all of Spain by Golf Digest, and the top course in Barcelona. Real Club de Golf El Prat – Barcelona
What to expect:
- A mix of challenges — some holes demand precision, others allow more risk.
- Excellent conditioning and facilities.
- Strong reputation and prestige — playing here gives you more than just a round.
2. PGA Catalunya / Camiral Golf & Wellness
A rising star, and future Ryder Cup host
- Formerly known as PGA Catalunya, now branded as Camiral Golf & Wellness, this complex is located north of Barcelona (in Girona province) and considered one of Spain’s top golf resorts. Golf Monthly+2Golf Monthly+2
- It has two standout courses (Stadium Course + Tour Course). The Stadium Course, in particular, is often compared to championship layouts like TPC Sawgrass. barcelonagolf.com+3Golf Monthly+3Golf Monthly+3
- In 2025 it was confirmed as the host for the 2031 Ryder Cup — a major validation of its quality and standing. Golf Monthly+2Golf Monthly+2
- It is already used for European Tour / DP World Tour events and top-level competitions. Golf Monthly+1
What to expect:
- A tournament-level experience: wide fairways, challenging greens, and a resort atmosphere.
- Good infrastructure for visitors — it’s built for golf tourism.
- Scenic surroundings: forested terrain, hilly surroundings, and premium sightlines.
3. Club de Golf Barcelona (formerly Masia Bach)
Technical design in the Penedès hills
- Located northwest of the city, in the Penedès wine region. top100golfcourses.com
- Designed by José María Olazábal, it has a hilly layout that tests walkers and hitters alike. top100golfcourses.com
- The course moves over challenging terrain with elevation changes, offering beautiful vistas (including views of Montserrat in places). top100golfcourses.com+1
- As part of a larger sports complex, it includes support facilities beyond just golf. top100golfcourses.com
What to expect:
- A technical round where club selection matters.
- Less “prestige name” compared to El Prat or Camiral, but strong in character and challenge.
- Good option if you want a solid round without the prestige premium.
4. Club de Golf Vallromanes
A local favorite close to the coast
- Vallromanes is often mentioned among the go-to courses near Barcelona. teetimes.pt+2golfscape.com+2
- Designed by F.W. Hawtree, it offers a tranquil woodland setting, rolling terrain, and a classic feel. teetimes.pt
- It’s nearer to coastal areas, making it accessible for players staying closer to the sea. golfscape.com+1
What to expect:
- An enjoyable round in a peaceful environment.
- A course that rewards shot making over brute force.
- Good balance if you prefer nature and calm rather than tournament intensity.
5. Club de Golf Terramar
Golf near the Mediterranean
- Located southwest of Barcelona along the coastal corridor. golfscape.com+1
- It has hosted the Estrella Damm Ladies Open (part of the Ladies European Tour) on multiple occasions. Wikipedia
- Its coastal position gives it views and sometimes coastal breezes — subtle, but influential. golfscape.com+1
What to expect:
- A round that feels more relaxed, particularly in shoulder season.
- Potential influence from sea winds and coastal micro-climate.
- Good alternative when you want a lighter day or mix up your itinerary.
🧭 How to Choose: Matching Courses to Your Mood & Trip
Here are some guiding principles to help you pick which course(s) to play:
| Your Goal | Good Course Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Tournament-level experience / bucket list round | Camiral (Stadium) / El Prat | High prestige, strong layouts, championship pedigree |
| Strong challenge near the city | El Prat | Close yet still complex courses |
| Scenic, technical round | Club de Golf Barcelona | Hills, views, design nuance |
| Peace & nature | Vallromanes | Quiet, wooded, less crowded |
| Coastal / something lighter | Terramar | Mediterranean feel, relaxed rounds |