Is Mallorca Good for Golf? A PGA Professional's Answer

Yes. But let me give you the proper answer - because Mallorca is good for golf in ways that aren't obvious from the outside.

The Courses Are Genuinely World-Class

Son Gual ranks among Europe's top courses. Alcanada is one of the most scenic on the continent. Son Muntaner was named Best Golf Course in Spain at the 2025 World Golf Awards. Andratx is one of the hardest courses in Spain. These are not resort tracks but serious layouts built by serious architects.

The Conditions Are Excellent Year-Round

300 days of sunshine. In January, when courses in much of Europe are closed or unplayable, the fairways here are immaculate. I moved from Shanghai, but grew up in the UK, and the off-season course conditions were the first thing that surprised me.

24 Courses on a Relatively Small Island

Coming from Shanghai - 27 million people with just 12 courses - the density of quality golf within a maximum one-hour drive here is remarkable. A week on the island can include four or five genuinely different, genuinely excellent rounds. Southwest, east coast, north, central Palma: each area has its own character and not just a samey resort track.

The Honest Caveats

July and August are hot and busy

Playable, but peak pricing and peak temperatures. Not ideal for a dedicated golf trip. Early morning tee times are needed but with a sea breeze often it is not that bad!

The east coast courses are best grouped together

Pula, Canyamel, and Capdepera are some of the most beautiful courses on the island. They make sense as a cluster, and it is worth considering a night on the east side to play a few together.

And When You're Not on the Course

One thing visitors often underestimate: Mallorca is an exceptional island beyond the golf which is why so many celebrities, sports stars and more call home here or visit for holidays. The courses are the anchor, but the days between rounds - or the afternoon after an early finish - are what makes the trip.

The clubhouse restaurants at many of the courses are more than an after-thought, but the island boasts many options from Michelin stars, local favourites and private chef dining experiences. Old town Palma has a dining scene that punches well above its size. The northwest coast - Valldemossa, Deià, Sóller - is UNESCO World Heritage and looks like nothing else in the Mediterranean. The northeast coast and the drive to Alcanada takes you through some of the best scenery on the island. The Ma-10 mountain road from Andratx to Pollença is one of the most dramatic drives in Europe. Build in at least one afternoon where you do not have a tee time.

Verdict

Mallorca is one of the best golf destinations in Europe. Not the most famous, but arguably the best combination of course quality, conditions, and scenery on the continent. The golfers who know keep coming back.