Golf Santa Ponsa I

Overview

Golf Santa Ponsa I is one of Mallorca’s most established and prestigious golf courses, located in the southwest of the island near Calvià, just 15 minutes from Palma. Opened in 1977, it was designed by Folco Nardi and Pepe Gancedo — two of Spain’s most respected course architects — and has since become one of the island’s most recognised golfing venues, having hosted numerous European Tour events.

The 18-hole, par-72 championship course stretches across 6,543 metres of gently undulating terrain. The layout is both strategic and scenic, with wide fairways framed by Mediterranean pines, olive and almond trees, and several large lakes that define its personality. The front nine is open and inviting, encouraging confident driving, while the back nine becomes more technical, requiring precision into subtly elevated greens and clever bunker placement.

Signature holes include the long par-5 10th — one of the longest holes in Europe at over 590 metres — and the par-4 16th, offering stunning mountain backdrops. The course’s generous scale gives it a grand, parkland feel, and its mixture of water, trees and rolling topography ensures variety throughout the round. Despite its championship pedigree, it remains playable for mid-handicappers and enjoyable for all skill levels thanks to its balanced design.

The club’s heritage is one of prestige: Golf Santa Ponsa I hosted six PGA European Tour events, including several editions of the Balearic Open, with winners such as Seve Ballesteros and José María Olazábal. It continues to attract discerning golfers who appreciate both the challenge and the atmosphere of a traditional, well-established course.

The clubhouse is elegant and spacious, featuring a fine Mediterranean restaurant, lounge areas and a terrace overlooking the 18th green. The practice facilities — including a driving range, putting green and short-game areas — are extensive and well-maintained, making Santa Ponsa I not only a golf course but a full training and leisure environment.

Set within an exclusive residential area and surrounded by two sister courses (Santa Ponsa II and III), the club offers a tranquil yet sophisticated experience, embodying classic Mallorcan golf at its finest.