Anyone who has travelled to Andalucía is fully aware of its allure. Unquestionably one of the world’s premier tourist destinations, the region offers a wonderfully diverse array of attractions, from stunning beaches, first-class infrastructure and internationally renowned golf courses to cultural enchantment, natural splendour and exquisite gastronomy. No surprises, therefore, that Andalucía has just been named “European Destination of the Year” by the global golf tourism industry organisation IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators).
Presented during the International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) held in Mallorca, the award recognises the activities developed by the region for golf tourism promotion and commercialisation, as well as its support and partnerships with golf tour operators. These qualities are especially highlighted on the Costa del Sol, specifically in Spain’s premier golfing destination, Marbella – and most impressively at Río Real Golf Hotel.
This well-deserved accolade was voted for by IAGTO’s tour operator members worldwide, one of an exclusive number granted annually from among a selection of nominated golf destinations and resorts “which offer the best performing experiences to their clients according to different criteria, related to customer satisfaction, quality of golf courses and accommodation, value for money, professional conduct of suppliers, support from the local tourism industry and accessibility of tee times”. Again, all key qualities that are in magnificent abundance at Río Real. Andalucía had previously won the award in 2009, which is further evidence – according to the Andalucian minister for tourism and sport, Francisco Javier Fernández (who formally collected the award on behalf of the regional government) that the region’s golf clubs continue to offer “quality and excellence”.
Río Real, which last year celebrated its 50th anniversary, is clearly a standard-bearer in this respect. Fernández highlighted the “attractive and diverse complimentary offers of the region that suit almost all the preferences and desires of the visitor”, while enhancing Andalucía’s reputation as “one of the most complete and competitive destinations worldwide”. Just one more indisputable reason for choosing Río Real Hotel for your next golfing holiday… With Marbella’s exceptional climate, excellent flight connections to and from Málaga-Costa del Sol international airport, sublime Mediterranean lifestyle and convenient proximity to other fascinating areas of Andalucía, it is understandable why Marbella and Río Real remain hugely attractive to visitors from the UK, Scandinavia, Germany, Switzerland, and many other European countries.
