Camiral (Girona, Spain)

Camiral Golf

Camiral Resort, formerly known as PGA Catalunya Resort, is a world-renowned golf and lifestyle destination nestled in the heart of Catalonia, Spain. Located just a short drive from the historic city of Girona and the stunning Costa Brava coastline, this resort offers two championship golf courses consistently ranked among Europe’s finest. Beyond its exceptional golf, Camiral provides a luxurious retreat with wellness facilities, exquisite dining, and a tranquil setting, making it a perfect escape for golfers and leisure travelers alike. It stands as a testament to modern golf course design and a vibrant hub for the sport in Spain.

The Stadium Course

The Stadium Course is the jewel in Camiral’s crown, a challenging and visually stunning layout that has tested many of the world’s best golfers.

  • Yardage (Championship Tees): Approximately 7,333 yards
  • Par: 72
  • Key Features: Known for its demanding tee shots, strategic bunkering, numerous water hazards, and undulating greens. The course is carved through pine forests and features dramatic elevation changes.
  • Notable Holes:
    • 6th Hole (Par 5): A long, sweeping par-5 with water protecting the green, offering a risk-reward opportunity.
    • 11th Hole (Par 4): A challenging dogleg left with a strategic bunker in the landing area, demanding precision.
    • 13th Hole (Par 3): A beautiful but intimidating par-3 over water to a well-guarded green.
    • 18th Hole (Par 4): A dramatic finishing hole with water down the left side, requiring a precise approach to a green overlooked by the clubhouse.

The Tour Course

The Tour Course offers a more forgiving yet still engaging golf experience, making it suitable for a wider range of handicaps while maintaining championship quality.

  • Yardage (Championship Tees): Approximately 6,591 yards
  • Par: 72
  • Key Features: Features wider fairways and fewer forced carries than the Stadium Course, but still presents strategic challenges with well-placed bunkers and water features.

Resort Overview

Established: 1999 (as PGA Catalunya Resort)
Location: Caldes de Malavella, Girona, Catalonia, Spain
Course Type: Parkland, Championship-standard
Architects: Neil F. Haworth and Ángel Gallardo (both courses)
Total Courses: 2 (18-hole courses): Stadium Course: The flagship course, consistently ranked among Europe’s top courses & Tour Course: A slightly less demanding but equally enjoyable championship course.
Address: Carretera N-II, Km 701, 17455 Caldes de Malavella, Girona, Spain

Major Championship History

Camiral (as PGA Catalunya Resort) has been a regular host for prestigious professional tournaments, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier venue.

  • European Tour Events: Has hosted numerous European Tour events, including:
    • Open de España: Three times (2000, 2009, 2014)
    • Catalunya Championship: (2022) – Also confirmed to host in 2028, 2029, and 2030.
    • Q-School Final Stage: Has been a frequent venue for the European Tour Qualifying School Final Stage (e.g., 2008-2016), a true test for aspiring professionals.
  • Other Notable Events: Has also hosted various amateur championships (e.g., 2021 European Amateur Team Championship) and international events.
  • Future Major Event: Camiral is confirmed to host the Ryder Cup in 2031.

How to Get to Camiral

Camiral is conveniently located in Catalonia, Spain, with excellent access to international airports.

  • 1. By Air:
    • Closest Airport: Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO) (approx. 15-20 minutes drive). Offers connections to various European cities, particularly with budget airlines.
    • Major International Airport: Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes drive). A major international hub with extensive global flight connections.
  • 2. By Car & Parking:
    • Camiral is easily accessible via the AP-7 motorway.
    • Ample on-site parking is available for resort guests and visitors to the golf courses and clubhouse.
    • Car Rental: Renting a car from Girona or Barcelona airports is a popular and recommended option for flexibility in exploring the region.
  • 3. By Rail:
    • High-speed train services connect Barcelona to Girona (approx. 40 minutes). From Girona train station, the resort is a short taxi ride (approx. 20 minutes).

Where to Stay at Camiral

Camiral offers a range of luxurious on-site accommodation options, and there are also choices in nearby towns.

  • 1. On-Site Accommodation:
    • Hotel Camiral: A 5-star luxury hotel offering elegant rooms, fine dining, and direct access to the golf courses and wellness facilities.
    • Hotel La Vida: A 4-star hotel designed for a more active and family-friendly stay.
    • Villas & Apartments: A selection of luxury villas and apartments are available for rent, ideal for groups or longer stays, offering privacy and self-catering options.
  • 2. Nearby Towns for Accommodation:
    • Girona: A beautiful historic city (approx. 20 minutes drive) with a wide range of hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
    • Costa Brava Towns: Charming coastal towns like Platja d’Aro, Begur, or Palafrugell (approx. 30-45 minutes drive) offer beach access and a different atmosphere.
  • 3. Booking Tips:
    • Book Well in Advance: Especially during peak golf season (spring and autumn) and major events, accommodation can be in high demand.
    • Consider Resort Packages: Bundling accommodation with golf can often provide a more seamless and cost-effective experience.
    • Use Reputable Sites: Utilize well-known booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and TripAdvisor to find and compare options.
TripAdvisor

Playing at Camiral

Playing at Camiral offers a world-class golfing experience with stunning scenery and challenging play. Advance planning for tee times is highly recommended.

  • Green Fees (Approximate Visitor Rates – always confirm with the resort):
    • Stadium Course: High season green fees can range from €150 to €250+ per person.
    • Tour Course: Green fees are typically lower than the Stadium Course.
  • Booking Tee Times:
    • Advance Booking: It is highly recommended to book tee times well in advance, especially for the Stadium Course and during peak season (spring and autumn).
    • Resort Guests: Guests staying at Hotel Camiral or Hotel La Vida, or in the resort’s villas/apartments, often receive preferential tee time access and sometimes discounted rates.
    • Online Booking: Tee times can be booked directly through the Camiral official website or via reputable golf tour operators.
  • Packages: The resort offers various golf packages that combine accommodation with rounds on both courses, often providing better value.
  • Walkability & Buggies: Both the Stadium and Tour Courses are walkable, and caddies are available upon request. Golf buggies (carts) are also available for hire and are commonly used, especially on the more undulating Stadium Course.
  • Weather: Catalonia enjoys a Mediterranean climate.
    • Spring (April-May) & Autumn (September-October): Generally offer the most pleasant golfing weather with mild temperatures.
    • Summer (June-August): Can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Early morning tee times are advisable.
    • Winter (November-March): Generally mild, but cooler with a higher chance of rain.
  • Facilities: The resort boasts excellent practice facilities, including a driving range, short game areas, and putting greens. There are well-appointed clubhouses with pro shops, locker rooms, and dining options.
  • Dress Code: Standard golf attire is required on the courses and in the clubhouses.

Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to Camiral

For the most accurate and up-to-date information for your visit, always consult these resources:

Official Sites:

Official Social Media:

Travel & Booking Tools:

Last Updated on July 22, 2025 by Sports Tourist

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