Spain is the top European golf tourism destination with many thousands of golfers visiting each year to enjoy its superb courses which are bathed in sunshine and with stunning views.
According to KPMG’s latest ‘Golf Study’ report, there are now 349 golf courses in Spain, making the country a popular choice for those who like to combine their love of the sport with a holiday in the sunshine. Options range from nine-hole municipal courses to championship courses by leading designers based in Spain or the USA. Many believe that the development in Spanish golf over the last four decades is partly due to Severiano Ballesteros, who popularised the game through his great achievements.
For those wishing to extend their opportunities to play, a property close to a course offering world-class facilities is the obvious answer. Jose Ribes, CEO of Rimontgo, an affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, says, “Golf attracts potential clients and/or investors with high or medium-high purchasing power. When we talk about residential areas, directly linked to a golf course, buyers are national residents and foreigners. In 2017, 40% of the buyers were national and 60% foreigners, with Germany and the Nordic countries in the lead, but also the rest of Europe and the USA being important.
“These properties are situated in high-standing residential complexes belonging to high purchasing power residents, boasting unparalleled locations within the complex, near major cities such as Valencia, or Dénia and Jávea on the Costa Blanca, with all services in the immediate vicinity.”
Mr Ribes advises that the Costa Blanca is one of the main international landmarks for golf throughout the year. “Golfers can enjoy a complete network of courses with excellent sports facilities and, most importantly, an enviable climate all-year-round,” he says. “Most golf courses have apartments and villas with access to the course and views over the fairways and greens.
“Prices after the crisis, in which high-end properties did not suffer so much, have recovered, and a clear upward trend is noted, backed by a growing number of sales. The forecasts are that the prices will remain stable, as can be seen from recent reports on the purchase and sale of property in Spain. This scenario of stability in the real estate market is marked by the growing acquisition of residences by foreigners in Spain, particularly in the main cities of the country and on the Mediterranean coast.”
