Son Vida

Son Vida

Playing golf on the Balearic island of Mallorca is always a pleasure. And the experience does not get much better than a round at Son Vida Golf Course.

This is the oldest golf course on the island and is part of interesting history. As it wasn’t the first to be built. In fact, Hotel Golf Playa de Alcúdia. Which was built in 1934, was Mallorca’s first official golfing venue. But the civil war prevented the project from continuing and it wasn’t until 30 years after this, that Golf Son Vida opened in 1964.

Redesigned in 2001

The first nine holes were playable on an opening day and were originally designed by F. W. Hawtree. But in 2001, German architect, Kurt Rossknecht redesigned the layout and the tees, greens, bunkers, and water hazards were rebuilt. In addition to the inclusion of a new irrigation system. However, only two holes, the 13th and the 18th were restructured.

Due to the age of the course and the number of players who have stepped on to its fairways. Golf Son Vida is Mallorca’s most legendary golf course and has played host to the European Tour on two occasions. Both in the 1990s. One of the clear differences between that course and the new layout designed by Kurt Rossknecht is the increase in difficulty and although the course is short in comparison to modern designs. The number of sweeping doglegs makes it a testing track.

The views from the golf course are fantastic and the Bay of Palma makes for a spectacular backdrop to a round at Golf Son Vida. From the tee, many of the fairways look narrow but this can be deceptive, as the fairways open nicely around the landing area of a good drive. It pays to back yourself to hit a nice drive and not worry about the narrow feel of the fairway on the tee, although anything too wide, will result in a tough second shot. The greens are quick and with numerous bunkers and water hazards around the course, a solid, tactical approach is required to score low.

How to Play the Signature Holes

There are several noteworthy holes throughout the round but things really start to crank up a level on the closing five holes, with the 18th hole being the signature hole of the course. This par-5 beauty, features a double dogleg, two lakes, and a stream, so for those who become nervous when playing shots around water, this hole will be a real test of the nerve. The second shot is played over water and if you make the green in two, you’ve certainly earned your drink and meal in the club restaurant, following the conclusion of your round.

The new clubhouse, which is situated above the 18th green has all the facilities required to enjoy a round of golf and the pro-shop is well stocked in case you have forgotten anything or want to add something new to your bag. With a great history and strategically challenging course, Golf Son Vida should be at the top of your list when golfing in Mallorca.

Further reading on the top golf courses to play in Mallorca

Discover the golf course for yourself on google maps here,