IAGTO European Convention 2024 – Malaga, Spain
Last week, our team had the incredible opportunity to attend the IAGTO European Convention in the beautiful city of Malaga, Spain. This prestigious event, held annually, gathers golf tourism professionals from around the globe to connect, collaborate, and innovate. It is amazing what kind of energy is created when you bring together hundreds of individuals from the golf travel industry!
The IEC took place in one of Europe’s hottest golf travel destinations – the Costa del Sol in southern Spain. When it comes to golfing destinations, few places can rival the allure of the Costa del Sol. Known as the “Sunshine Coast,” this stunning region boasts more than just beautiful beaches and a warm Mediterranean climate. It is a golfer’s paradise, offering a blend of world-class golf courses, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Here is why Costa del Sol should be at the top of your list for your next golfing getaway:
Selection of Beautiful Golf Courses
Costa del Sol is home to over 70 golf courses, making it one of the highest concentrations of golf courses in Europe. As you drive south from Malaga, you will spot many courses tucked into the beautiful hills along the coast. Each course offers something unique, from challenging fairways and greens to spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding mountains. Renowned courses such as Valderrama and Finca Cortesin have hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the Ryder Cup and the Solheim Cup. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a casual player, Costa del Sol has a course that will match your skill level and offer an unforgettable golfing experience.
Favorable Mediterranean Climate
It would be impossible to describe the Costa del Sol as a golfing destination without mentioning its enviable climate. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, you can enjoy golfing in pleasant weather almost any time. The mild winters and warm summers ensure that the golfing season never ends. The year-round warm weather allows golf enthusiasts to plan their trips without worrying about weather disruptions, making Costa del Sol a reliable choice for a golf vacation at any time of the year.
Highly Accessible
Costa del Sol’s accessibility is another factor that adds to its appeal as a golfing destination. The region is well-connected with an international airport in Malaga, offering direct flights from many major cities around the world. Once you arrive, an efficient network of roads and transportation options make it easy to travel between golf courses, resorts, and local attractions. With a nice highway running all the way down the coast and relatively short drive times, less time can be spent in the car and more time can be spent enjoying what the region has to offer.
Variety of Accommodations
Costa del Sol offers a remarkable variety of resorts, catering to both beach lovers and golf enthusiasts. Beach resorts in the region are renowned for their stunning sea views and direct access to pristine sandy beaches, yet are often located just a few minutes away from world-class golf courses. In contrast, the golf resorts are often tucked away in the hills and are designed with the avid golfer in mind, featuring stunning golf courses that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. Both types of resorts provide exceptional amenities and services, ensuring that whether you prefer lounging by the sea or staying in a golfer’s paradise, Costa del Sol has the perfect resort for your ideal vacation.
Hospitality
While golf may be the highlight of your trip, Costa del Sol offers a rich tapestry of cultural and recreational activities. Explore the historic towns of Marbella, Malaga, San Roque and Ronda, indulge in delicious Spanish cuisine, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife that the region is famous for. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore ancient ruins, or savor local wines, Costa del Sol has something for everyone.
During our time in Spain, we experienced each of these attributes which make the region such an attractive golfing destination. The courses were amazing, the resorts were top-notch and the locals were extremely friendly. We would like to say thank you to IAGTO for the opportunity and can hardly wait to return to the Costa del Sol!
