A relatively new player in the golf tourism scene, the exotic Moroccan “red city” of Marrakech is quickly emerging as a new favorite. With over 300 days of sunshine every year, a plethora of premium golf courses, and a fascinating cultural atmosphere to boot, there is good reason for the recent soar in golfing vacations to Marrakech.
Though numerous options can make the decision as to which golf courses to visit appear quite overwhelming, there are a handful of establishments which shine brighter than the rest.
Why Marrakech?
Morocco is a golf lover’s paradise. As you will note from our picks of the best golf courses in Marrakech contained within this article, there is certainly something for everyone – whether you want to partake in a challenging, highly technical game or a leisurely play; and whether you want to be in a tranquil and secluded location, or you want to be in the center of the city and the heart of the action, you will certainly find something to suit your tastes.
Royal Golf Club
Encapsulated within stunning grounds filled with lush, tropical vegetation, partaking in a game of golf at the Royal Golf Club is a decadent affair. As your caddy transports you from one hole to another, you speed past the beautiful scenery created by the 15,000 trees that occupy the site – wild palm trees, lush olive groves, and fragrant orange trees – to name a few.
As the oldest golf club in Morocco, the Royal Golf Club was commissioned by none other that the Pasha of Marrakech himself in 1933. In the early days, the club was enjoyed by the likes of Winston Churchill and President Eisenhower so that should give you a little insight as to the prestige that surrounds this golf club.
This nine hole course is worth a visit even just so that you can say that you have played on the most renowned course in Morocco!
Al Maaden Club
Going above and beyond the designs and landscaping of a regular golf course, the 18 hole site at Al Maaden is an elaborate, artistic masterpiece. Designed by esteemed architect Kyle Phillips, Al Maaden sees the golf course twist and turn through an eccentric sculpture park which consists of 12 large scale installations.
The beautiful atmosphere will no doubt leave you feeling inspired, relaxed, and ready to play your perfect game. The added benefit of Al Maaden Club is it’s central location – just 15 minutes away from Marrakech’s main Djemma El Fna square. As such, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a few games of golf as part of a cultural trip to the exotic imperial city.
Assoufid Golf Club
With a dramatic backdrop of the Atlas Mountains behind it, the 18 hole course at Assoufid Golf Club provides players with an “only in Morocco” style golfing experience, as they enjoy a game that sees the course take them through smooth desert landscapes.
If you’re a keen golf aficionado then chances are that you may have heard whispers of the excellence of Assoufid Golf Club already. The course is adored by Moroccan natives and international visitors alike and has received critical acclaim in the world’s most respectable travel and luxury media.
The club has been awarded the title of being Africa’s best golf club in 2016, and earned Tripadvisor’s “Certificate of Excellence” for the same calendar year. With all things considered, it should come as no surprise that Assoufid is on our list of the best golf courses in Morocco.
Samanah Country Club
The 18 hole course at Samanah Country Club is one of the newest in Morocco, and with a course length of a whopping 6,800 feet, it is also the longest. The course often takes treacherous turns, with rough desert terrains, rocks, cacti and large pools of water encapsulated within the 6,800 feet length.
No doubt that experienced golfers will love the challenge that Samanah provides them with! Samanah Country Club is also home to a David Leadbetter golf academy so those that are relatively new to golfing, or whom have struggled with the complexities of the course can work on their handicap and hone their skills while in town
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Ourika Golf Club
Though the course at Samanah Country Club is challenging at times, when it is compared to the difficult Ourika Golf Club, it comes across like a regular lawn based putting green! Ourika, located just south of Marrakech’s city limits is set against the jaw-dropping backdrop of the snow capped Atlas mountains.
A combination of the desert terrain, and the extensive waste areas and deep bodies of water that surround a lot of the holes on this course mean that Ourika is not for the faint of hearted or those apprehensive of taking on a challenge!
Amelkis Golf Club
When it comes to golfing in style, nowhere offers more class and luxury in Marrakech than Amelkis Golf Club. Surrounded by stunning greenery and exquisite villas and hotels, Amelkis is the perfect place for a relaxing golf break.
The 27 hole Amelkis course was designed with the intention to provide golfers with a challenge. Tired of the “same old, same old” theme that he was noticing on the majority of modern courses, American architect Cabell B. Robinson designed this overtly technical course.
As players progress through the course’s expansive 10,657 meter length, they pass through challenging pitfalls, conquer blind starts, and have to strategize to deal with bumpy and hilly terrain. Experienced golfers will take much delight in the course here.
Palmeraie Golf Club
Situated in the breathtaking Palm Grove area of Marrakech, the Palmeraie golf club is arguably one of the most beautiful in the country. Designed by American Architect Robert Trent Jones Senior in 1993, the course is highly regarded by golf lovers across the globe and is considered as being one of the world’s best course, winning the world golf awards in 2014 and 2015 respectively.
best things about Palmeraie is that it caters to all abilities – whether you are a beginner, an intermediate player, or a well seasoned pro, you will be certain to enjoy the superb 27 hole course and there is plenty of help on hand if you need it. Palmeraie is also the full package, as far as a getaway from the hustle and bustle of your daily life is concerned; the site offers premium luxury accommodation and an expansive spa facility to help you unwind after a particularly tough game.