On the right track in Costa Brava
Published: Last updated:
Golfers who love ‘driving’, both on the course and on the roads, can satisfy their twin passions when the Spanish Formula One Grand Prix revs into gear in Catalonia this month (May 20-22).
Players enjoying golfing breaks in the spectacular Costa Brava region can also make a fast pit-stop at the Circuit de Catalunya, between Barcelona and Girona, to witness the latest high-octane chapter of the Formula One World Championship battle.
The race is the fifth round of the 2011 series and always proves a popular choice with visitors from abroad thanks to the thrills and spills on the challenging 4.6km circuit mixed with usually fantastic weather conditions and authentic Catalan culture and cuisine for which the region is renowned.
Golf enthusiasts who love their motor racing can enjoy a three-day fix of track action with the 66-lap race on May 22 preceded by practice sessions on May 20 and qualifying on May 21.
They can also embrace the unique atmosphere of the Spanish race by joining in with the home fans to cheer on local hero Fernando Alonso, the two-time World Champion who drives for the famous Ferrari team.
Visitors keen to combine a visit to the Spanish Grand Prix with a round of golf are spoilt for choice with many exceptional courses in Costa Brava. These include:
- PGA Golf Catalunya Resort, ranked a World Top 100 Course and a Spanish Open venue;
- Club Golf d’Aro Mas Nou that is set in beautiful parkland;
- Club de Golf Costa Brava that offers a challenging, British-designed course;
- Golf Girona with its wonderfully maintained layout;
- Torremirona Golf Club that enjoys wonderful views over the Pyrenees;
- Club de Golf Peralada Golf Club whose course presents a good test for players of all standards.
Jaume Marín, Director of Marketing at Costa Brava Pirineu de Girona, said: “The Spanish Formula One Grand Prix is one of the most eagerly anticipated events on Spain’s sporting calendar and we are proud to have the race hosted right on Costa Brava’s doorstep.
“We warmly invite visitors to Costa Brava to enjoy a golfing break twinned with a trip to the Grand Prix and experience a unique taste of Catalonia’s culture, along with our acclaimed cuisine and history.”
Located an hour north of Barcelona and easily accessible thanks to Girona-Costa Brava Airport – an important Ryanair hub – the region is home to many prestigious golf resorts and other attractions, Michelin-starred restaurants and a wide range of accommodation.
Golfers will especially enjoy the memorable experience of playing the spectacular Tour Course, designed by Angel Gallardo and Neil Coles and a European Tour Qualifying School venue, at PGA Catalunya Resort before making tracks to the Circuit de Catalunya.
Comfortable accommodation is provided at the luxurious four-star Hotel Melia Golf Vichy Catalan at the world-class PGA Catalunya Resort, which boasts a peaceful spa and 149 spacious rooms offering breathtaking views over the golf courses or pool.
The special deals include:
- Bed and breakfast accommodation (based on two people sharing a room; excludes flights and transportation)
- Day ticket(s) to play the Tour Course
- Day pass(es) to the Circuit de Catalunya
Package prices start from €185 per day with costs dependent on the number of nights’ stay, green fees and circuit day passes required; half-board bookings are also available for a supplement of €26 per day.
Golfers wishing to experience the unique thrill of playing the World Top 100 Stadium Course can do so for a supplement of €10 per person. Golf buggies can also be hired for €30.
Alternative places to stay include the five-star Hotel Peralada Wine Spa & Golf that enjoys a prime location in north Costa Brava, the four-star Emporda Golf Hotel & Spa at Gualta that offers a wealth of facilities, the four-star Sallés Hotel Mas Tapiolas 17th century farmhouse, very well preserved and located in a great setting, and the three-star Hotel Costa Brava on the seafront at Platja d’Aro.
*Additional information on Costa Brava can be found at www.costabrava.org
