The Dual Experience: Emporda Links and Emporda Forest
Emporda Links is strategically situated in the picturesque heart of the Costa Brava, specifically in Girona, Catalonia, Spain. This prime geographical placement affords breathtaking coastal vistas and convenient access to the region's diverse cultural attractions, facilitated by major highway networks. While some information suggests a 30-minute travel time from Barcelona , a more consistent assessment of its location, approximately 50 kilometers from Girona , indicates a travel duration closer to 1 hour and 30 minutes from Barcelona. The foundational philosophy of the club is deeply rooted in fostering an environment of tranquility, natural splendor, and profound respect for golf's enduring traditions. This guiding principle aims to curate an unparalleled experience that seamlessly integrates the exhilaration of golf with the serene pleasure of being immersed in nature. Operating as a comprehensive golf resort, Empordà Golf encompasses meticulously designed courses, a luxurious hotel, and exceptional dining establishments, all configured to deliver a complete and enriching golfing getaway.
The Empordà Golf Club distinguishes itself by offering 36 holes, ingeniously configured into two distinct 18-hole championship courses: Empordà Links, also known as Empordà Dunes, and Empordà Forest. These two courses present contrasting layouts, each meticulously crafted to challenge different facets of a golfer's skill set and to provide a unique immersion into the diverse natural landscapes of the Costa Brava. The Empordà Links course is characterized by its Scottish-inspired design, featuring prominent dunes and strategic water hazards. In stark contrast, the Empordà Forest course navigates through dense pine forests with winding fairways and tranquil lakes, embodying the quintessential Mediterranean golf landscape. This deliberate differentiation in course design and playability significantly enhances the resort's appeal. By offering both a links-style challenge and a more technical, tree-lined course, Empordà Golf caters to a broad spectrum of golfing preferences. This strategic versatility enables the resort to attract a wider demographic of golfers, from those who seek the open, strategic play characteristic of links golf to those who prefer the precision and nuanced challenges of a parkland or forest course. Furthermore, this dual offering creates opportunities for the club to host a greater variety of tournaments and events, thereby maximizing its market reach and potential revenue. The provision of such varied experiences within a single resort positions Empordà Golf not merely as a golf club, but as a diverse and comprehensive golfing destination capable of satisfying a wide array of player preferences.
The Emporda Links Course: A Masterpiece of Design
Empordà Links holds the distinction of being the inaugural golf course designed in Spain by the globally acclaimed architect Robert von Hagge, a figure celebrated for his creation of some of the world's most distinguished courses. Rick Baril is also recognized for his contributions as a co-designer, playing a role in shaping the unique character of the course. Von Hagge's exceptional talent is particularly evident in his transformation of what was initially described as "a marshy unappealing land" into a "blank canvas". This allowed his creative vision to flourish, enabling him to seamlessly integrate natural challenges into the course's design. This ability to convert a seemingly unsuitable natural environment into a highly regarded, complex golf course underscores Von Hagge's exceptional skill and visionary approach. His design philosophy appears to have been centered on maximizing the potential of the existing topography while introducing challenging and aesthetically pleasing features. This level of ingenuity is a primary contributor to the course's distinctive appeal and its consistent recognition as a world-class design, showcasing how a master architect can transcend natural limitations to craft a premier golfing experience.
Course Specifications and Key Characteristics
The Empordà Links course is an 18-hole layout with a par of 71. It spans a length of 6327 meters, which translates to approximately 6919 yards. While some sources provide slightly varying yardages, the metric measurement from the official Empordà Golf website is considered the most accurate. The course was established in 1988. The design of Empordà Links is meticulously crafted to evoke the essence of Scottish golf tradition, incorporating inland rolling dunes and challenging winds that are characteristic of authentic links play. This traditional feel is expertly combined with modern golf elements, notably through the integration of numerous water hazards and strategically positioned bunkers throughout the course, demanding precise shots and strategic foresight from players. A notable feature is the 18th hole, which provides a dramatic and challenging conclusion to a round, being surrounded by a lake and featuring a substantial 300 m² green. The terrain is generally flat, making it conducive to walking, although the overall length of the course, reported to be nearly 12 kilometers when walked, includes significant distances between holes.
Emporda Forest Golf Course
Empordà Forest Golf Course, located in the heart of Catalonia, Spain, offers a unique golfing experience surrounded by natural beauty. The course is characterized by its undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and a layout that harmonizes with the surrounding forest. Players can enjoy a challenging round that requires precision and thoughtful course management, set against the backdrop of Mediterranean flora and tranquil woodland. The course is well-maintained year-round, making it an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts seeking both competitive play and serene landscapes. Amenities include a modern clubhouse, practice facilities, and dining options that complement the overall experience. Empordà Forest Golf Course is a distinctive choice for those looking to combine sport with nature in a peaceful setting.
