In the foothills of the Tramuntana mountains in northern Mallorca, the Pollensa golf club offers a scenic and challenging 9-hole golfing experience.

Though small in size, this hidden gem punches above its weight in terms of enjoyment and value. With spectacular vistas over Pollensa bay, this course perfectly encapsulates the natural beauty of Mallorca.

Course Overview

Originally opened in 1986 with 9 holes designed by José Gancedo, the course was remodelled in 2000 by Michael Pinner of the Nicklaus Group. The layout takes full advantage of the stunning natural setting, winding through olive and almond groves with the mountains rising steeply behind.

Though only stretching to 2552 metres from the white tees, clever design ensures it plays much longer than expected. Accuracy and course management are rewarded here, with water, trees and strategic bunkering lying in wait to punish the overzealous. The par 35 adds up to a demanding test for all standards of player.

Amenities and Facilities

The clubhouse itself is modest but comfortable, with a large terrace overlooking the course. Cold drinks and light snacks are available, as well as rental clubs and buggies.

The driving range is adequate for loosening up, and there’s a small practice putting green. The pool looks inviting for a post-round dip on hot days.

In all, the emphasis is firmly on the golf, with few fancy frills. The focus is enjoying the course itself along with the sensational scenery.

Course Layout and Design

Starting uphill, the opening par 3 demands an accurate tee shot. The following par 5 doglegs right, calling for a layup to avoid a line of trees and bunker to the right of the green. The third is a left dogleg with tricky water and bunker placements along the left side. The 4th is a par 3 134m restbite over a trenched bunker to the green. The 5th is a right-hand dogleg 265m, par 4.

On the 6th we again encounter water to the left with a large bunker guarding the front approach to the green. The 7th is a 355m, par 4 with water and bunker to the left of the fairway. The bunker continues around the rear of the green. The 8th hole is a short 103m, par 3 with an extensive bunker along the left. We finish out with a 466m, par 5 slight left dogleg.

Playing Experience

Playing Pollensa is an unforgettable experience for several reasons. Firstly, it’s an aesthetic treat, with photogenic holes unfolding against a backdrop of mountains and glittering sea.

Secondly, the design packs a punch, with thought-provoking risk-reward choices. Accuracy off the tee is key, but aggressive players can still attack with mid to short irons.

Sloped greens and tricky pins mean putting demands care. Lastly, the peace and seclusion lend a real sense of escape to a round here.

Conditions and Maintenance

Visitors suggest maintenance standards fluctuate, but are generally decent for the green fee. While unlikely to match the manicured perfection of a big-budget resort course, fairways are kept tidy enough and greens are smooth and true.

Bunkers tend to be the weak point, suffering from washouts and lack of raking. But maintenance struggles are perhaps understandable for a smaller club in such hot climes.

Overall the course is kept playable year-round, which is commendable given the small-scale operation.

Scenery and Atmosphere

In terms of sheer beauty, there are few courses to match Pollensa. Holes play across a lush valley surrounded by mountains, with views extending over the Bay of Pollensa to the rocky Formentor peninsula.

The relaxed pace and tranquil setting make it feel a world away from the crowds elsewhere on Mallorca. Dawdling groups are rare, so the pace is pleasing. You’re left alone to soak up the scenery and enjoy your round.

Local Knowledge and Tips

Visitors suggest starting early for the best experience, as the small size means overcrowding is an issue in peak season. Also, given the elevation changes and hilly terrain, a buggy is recommended unless you relish a workout.

Visitors note the little on-course bar by the 3rd hole is a great spot to pause and admire the panorama over a cold drink. And be sure to pack mosquito spray from April to October when the bugs come out.

Hole Distance, Par & Handicap

Hole	Distance (m)	Par	Handicap
1	155	3	9
2	521	5	5
3	351	4	3
4	134	3	11
5	265	4	15
6	278	4	17
7	335	4	1
8	103	3	13
9	466	5	7

Customer Service and Staff

According to reviews, the staff are an asset to the club, being friendly and welcoming to visitors. They’re praised for going out of their way to make sure people enjoy their round.

As a smaller club, the service has a more personal touch than bigger resort courses around the island. The relaxed culture seems focused on golfers having fun rather than strict rules and protocols.

Many visitors say they’ll be back next time in Mallorca.

Value for Money

Prices here are far lower than most other courses on Mallorca, especially given the high standard of the course. Currently, 18 holes cost around €65, which is great value considering the beautiful setting and enjoyable layout.

Prices for rental clubs and buggies are also reasonable. Compared to the €100+ fees of many resort courses, Pollensa offers an affordable Mallorca golf experience without compromising on scenery.

Conclusion

For golfers seeking beautiful views and a charming layout without breaking the budget, Pollensa is a hidden gem. The peaceful setting and strategic design allow you to immerse yourself in the golf and surroundings.

The course may be compact, but the ingenious design ensures it plays far bigger than the yardage suggests. For an authentic taste of golf in Mallorca, all against the stunning backdrop of mountains and sea, Pollensa packs a punch.

Location