Galicia is a fertile land full of delights. So, playing a few holes at La Toja golf course is a unique experience that will bring joy at any time of the year. Its location, next to the Arousa estuary, makes this course one of the most highly valued in Spain. Also, its hole number 5 is, without doubt, the country’s most spectacular.
History and trivia behind the course
José Riestra López was an aristocrat and businessman who had a great impact on the entire province of Pontevedra. In fact, it was he who managed to bring electricity to the capital and he also created several social cafeterias for the poor. However, his most ambitious project was to create a spa on the island of La Toja.
It was possibly this island’s legend of the donkey that was partly responsible for this. The story goes that a resident of O Grove, a town near the island, had a donkey that was very sick. Not being valuable enough to slaughter it, the owner left it to its fate on the island so that it could spend its last days there.
To his surprise, when he went back to bury the animal, he discovered it alive and well. And not just that, but it had been healed of its illness and was splashing around in the mud.
The island’s fame
This legend is what made the thermal waters that come from this place famous worldwide. However, it wasn’t until 1841 that the water was proven to contain high levels of the mineral salts sodium, calcium, iron and magnesium. This is what led the marquis to see the great potential of the place.
He bought all the necessary land from the Spanish State and dealt with the various licences and permits required. Since its opening, in 1907, it has become a unique spot. Until then, no other tourist complex had a golf course, hotel and spa.
This is what attracted aristocrats from all over Europe to try out its facilities. Following its initial success, the facility became a benchmark in the continent. The first golf course on the island had only five holes that were reserved only for the marquis’ most select guests. Also, he was the one who designed them.
Popularity of the golf course
However, it grew rapidly, in part thanks to its excellent location. It seemed a waste not to make the most of many of the areas that nature had been cultivating over the course of many years. Little by little, the facilities underwent several restructurings.
In 1976, the Banco Popular bought La Toja Golf Club and completely redesigned it. At that time, 9 holes were created, which quickly attracted the most ambitious players. But that was just the beginning. There are currently 18 holes available, although it’s hole number 5 that stands out. There, any mistake will send your ball towards the Arousa estuary. Therefore, it’s the best place to distinguish between the best players and the rest.
Interesting fact exclusive Golf La Toja:
Exclusivity is one of the hallmarks of La Toja Golf Club. In fact, only around 20,000 lucky people visit every year. That’s just over 50 players a day. As such, playing in this spot allows you to enjoy the sounds of nature. You can also enjoy the sound of the waves hitting the rocks near some of the holes.
La Toja Golf Course. Rates
There are various options for you to enjoy this experience. The best way to access all the services of La Toja Golf Course is to become a member. At La Toja Golf, rates begin from €79 each month to become a member and you will have access to the course facilities. You will also have access to discounts at the tennis, paddle and croquet courts.
If you prefer to play sporadically, you can also do this as a visitor. In this case, the cheapest rates start from €50 to play just 9 holes in low season. Rates go up to €200 for 18 holes in the month of August. However, if you stay at the Gran Hotel, you get 50% off that rate.
At other accommodation options with an agreement in place, the discount ranges from €10 to €30 per day depending on the time of year. Lastly, the tournaments at La Toja Golf are another great option if you enjoy the competition.
What do you think of La Toja Golf Course? Don’t wait any longer and book your stay at the island’s apartments and chalets to enjoy one of the best facilities in Spain. We’ll be delighted to welcome you.