The final stop on our Costa Verde golf journey brought us to Vitoria-Gasteiz, the vibrant capital of the Basque region. Known as the “Land of Legends,” this area boasts an impressive golfing pedigree. Here, players can experience three remarkable courses:
- Meaztegi Golf, a Seve Ballesteros masterpiece
- Club de Golf Larrabea, where Jon Rahm honed his game
- Uraburu Golf, a mountainous challenge designed by José María Olazábal
Each course offers its own distinct character, blending strategic design, stunning scenery, and the unmistakable spirit of golf in the Basque country.
Meaztegi Golf – A Seve Ballesteros Masterpiece
Meaztegi (pronounced May-f-tegi) Golf Club is a 27-hole municipal complex owned and run by the local Bizkaia principality (Council). It feels and plays more like an American resort course and is set amongst the rolling countryside that is a feature of this part of Spain. It is so good that we believe it would be right up there with the very best public courses in Europe. Yes, we know that’s a big statement and hopefully, we can back it up in this article.
It is located about 30 minutes northwest of Bilbao and is part of the “Land of Legends” area in Costa Verde Golf’s portfolio. The course was designed by Masters and Open Champion Severiano Ballesteros and is less than 20 years old, officially opening in 2006.
Meaztegi’s championship course is a par 72. There are four sets of tees to choose from, the shortest being 5895 yards and the longest being 6880 yards. We chose to play mainly from the yellow tees at 6670 yards but on a couple of holes, played from the whites. Meaztegi will test every facet of your golf game, and we would recommend playing from the tees that give you the best opportunity to enjoy your round.
Read about our experience of playing at Meaztegi Golf here
Club de Golf Larrabea – Jon Rahm’s Childhood Playground
Just 15 minutes from Vitoria-Gasteiz, Club de Golf Larrabea is a picturesque, well-balanced course that played a pivotal role in the early development of Jon Rahm. This par-72 layout blends seamlessly into the rolling Basque countryside, offering a mix of tree-lined fairways, strategic doglegs, and well-protected greens.
The course is thoughtfully designed, with both nines mirroring each other in terms of layout and par. A distinctive and perhaps unique feature is the rooftop putting green situated above the caddy car and locker area.
The rooftop putting green
Larrabea rewards precision over power, making it an enjoyable yet testing challenge for golfers of all skill levels. The practice facilities, welcoming clubhouse, and stunning natural surroundings make it a must-play destination for golf enthusiasts exploring the Basque region.
Read our article about the experience of playing at Club de Golf Larrabea here
Uraburu Golf – A Mountainous Challenge
Designed by José María Olazábal, Uraburu Golf is a stunning yet demanding course, located 45 minutes from Vitoria-Gasteiz. Nestled in the heart of the Basque countryside, this mountainous layout offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and forests.
A True Shot-Maker’s Course
Uraburu is known for its narrow fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and undulating greens. Golfers need pinpoint accuracy and strategic course management to score well. Given the hilly terrain, a golf buggy is highly recommended to navigate the steep inclines.
The signature holes reflect Olazábal’s philosophy of risk-reward golf, where careful planning is rewarded and recklessness is punished. Several holes offer jaw-dropping viewpoints that make this course as visually rewarding as it is challenging.
Wonderful Views
The clubhouse provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a demanding round. Enjoy a well-earned drink while soaking in the picturesque views.
For those seeking a golfing adventure in the Basque Country, Uraburu Golf is an essential stop. It delivers a technical challenge, scenic beauty, and a championship-calibre experience in an unforgettable setting.
Read our article about the experience of playing at Uraburu Golf here
Discovering Vitoria-Gasteiz
The capital of the Basque Country, Vitoria-Gasteiz, is a cultural gem with medieval cobbled streets and charming plazas. The Old Town is a must-visit, boasting vibrant bars, traditional pintxos eateries, and fascinating historical sites.
Places to See
Here are five must-visit places:
- Casco Viejo (Old Town) – Vitoria’s medieval Old Town is one of the best preserved in Spain. Wander through its narrow, cobbled streets and admire historic buildings, charming squares, and vibrant murals. Don’t miss Plaza de la Virgen Blanca, the city’s heart.
- Cathedral of Santa María – This 13th-century Gothic cathedral inspired Ken Follett’s novel World Without End. You can take a fascinating guided tour, exploring its towering structure and ongoing restoration work. The panoramic views from the bell tower are breathtaking.
- Parque de la Florida – A beautiful, English-style park in the city centre, perfect for a relaxing stroll. It features sculptures, fountains, and lush greenery.
- Artium Museum – Vitoria’s contemporary art museum showcases an impressive collection of Spanish modern art, including works by Picasso, Miró, and Dalí. A must-visit for art lovers.
- Salburua Wetlands & Ataria Interpretation Center – A natural paradise just outside the city, this wetland reserve is ideal for birdwatching and peaceful walks. Visit the Ataria Center to learn about local wildlife and enjoy stunning views from its observation deck.
Our Accommodation
We stayed at the 4-star NH Cancillar Ayala Hotel, ideally located across from Parque de la Florida and within a short walk of Virgen Blanca Square. Comfortable rooms and an excellent breakfast selection made it a perfect base for our trip. Our recommendation for a local Basque eating experience, try Restaurant Virgen Blanca Jazetxe – Located in the plaza. They serve exquisite Basque cuisine and the staff are extremely friendly.
Our recommendation for a great night out is So Wood, which is a lively tapas and wine bar on Calle De Postas. They offer local vino tinto for just €1.30 a glass and delicious pintxos starting at €2.50. These prices were correct at the time of our visit and represent excellent value.
Costa Verde Golf – Your Hosts in the Basque Country
Tony Fuller Melia and his team at Costa Verde Golf provide expertly curated golf tours throughout northern Spain. Expanding beyond the coastal hubs, they now offer experiences in Vitoria-Gasteiz and La Rioja wine country. With their deep local knowledge and hospitality expertise, they craft unforgettable golfing and cultural adventures.
For more information, visit the Costa Verde Golf website here
Jim Callaghan CCM is a former Club Manager with experience overseeing several top Scottish clubs.
Now, as European Editor of Golf Operator Magazine and World’s Best Golf Destinations, he shares insights into club operations and his golfing adventures across Europe.
Jim is also an Ambassador for premium clothing brand Fenix Xcell Clothing and also for the Spanish local DMC, Costa Verde Golf.
If you want to reach over 400,000 golfers who love to travel, contact Jim at [email protected] or call 0044 (0) 78522
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