Sunnier Outlook

12.10.21

The relaxation of travel restrictions means that golfers looking to enjoy a round under the winter sun can now head overseas with much more ease. Both Spain and Portugal remain popular destinations with golfers thanks to their easy access from the UK, pristine courses and inviting weather with both Iberian nations looking forward to an influx of golfers over the next couple of months.

João Fernandes, president of the Algarve’s regional tourism authority, RTA, comments: “Reservation data seems to be pointing to a clear recovery. We have good indicators for October and November.”

Many of the golfers heading to Spain and Portugal for some winter sun may be considering something more permanent than a holiday, according to Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish home builder Taylor Wimpey España: “Second homes on golf courses have been popular with British buyers for many years. While the pandemic put many players’ plans on hold, in terms of owning a second home overseas, we are now seeing a rush of second home buyers return to Spain. Spacious, light-filled golf course properties are proving particularly popular.”

Taylor Wimpey España’s September figures certainly reflect vast pent-up appetite for second homes in Spain. The company has just reported the best September reservation figures since it was founded in 1958. By way of recent comparison, the number of properties sold in September 2021 was triple the number sold in September 2019.

Nor is it just Spain that is enjoying strong demand for second homes. Over in neighbouring Portugal, golf properties at Palmares Ocean Living & Golf and Amendoeira Golf Resort, which are owned and operated by Kronos Homes, are proving very popular.

Alda Filipe, Sales and Marketing Director told us: “Off the back of an excellent summer, we are now seeing the arrival of golfers looking to ‘try before they buy’ on the second home ownership front. Many are coming over to immerse themselves in the Portuguese holiday experience and enjoy all that the resorts here have to offer, with a view to turning that into something longer term.”

Golf property ownership in Portugal comes with multiple benefits. At Amendoeira Golf Resort, for example, players not only have access to two prized 18-hole golf courses and a nine-hole course, driving range, putting green and golf academy, but also to a range of other facilities. For the fitness-focused, the resort has six tennis courts, two padel courts, two five-a-side football pitches, a FIFA-standard football pitch, a fully equipped gym and a kilometre-long jogging track. Those looking for a more relaxing break can enjoy the stunning setting with its new clubhouse, reception, restaurant and sports bar. Prices range from €285,000 for a two-bedroom apartment to €1.25 million for a four-bedroom villa with private pool.

In Spain, too, golf properties provide much more than just access to the fairways. At Taylor Wimpey España’s Sun Valley development, golfers have access to the plentiful facilities of La Cala Golf Resort, including three 18-hole golf courses, a hydrotherapy centre and spa, tennis courts, a running track, a gym with qualified trainers, a professional football pitch, a golf academy and a practice range. Two-bedroom apartments are available from €235,000.