Guide to Golf in the Costa Del Sol | Glencor Golf Holidays

Couples golfing is on the rise, according to new data from golf holiday specialist Glencor Golf.

The golf holiday provider has seen a massive 157% increase in bookings for golf holidays for couples.

This relates to a huge increase in the number of people searching for the term ‘golf and spa breaks for couples’, according to Google data.

In August 2023, there were just 40 searches a month for this term. But since July this year, the search volume has risen to a peak of 590 searches per month.

Corrie Renton, Director of Glencor said: “At Glencor Golf Holidays we have seen a significant increase in the number of enquiries and bookings for a couple’s golf break, both at resorts in the UK as well as various destinations abroad.

“This could be down to a number of reasons, including the fact that golf participation levels have dramatically increased since the COVID pandemic across both males and females.”

A growing trend in couple golfing

Speaking exclusively to Glencor on the topic, Ehab Youssef, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Mental Health Researcher and Writer at Mentalyc, said: “I’ve noticed a growing trend among couples taking up golf together.

“I’ve had several clients share how golf has become a shared passion in their relationships.

“There’s something about the pace of golf that really draws couples in. Unlike more intense sports, golf allows for long stretches of time together, and many of my clients have said that it gives them a chance to talk in a low-pressure environment.

“The game’s slower rhythm leaves room for casual conversation, and for many couples, it becomes a way to reconnect outside of daily life stressors.”

4 factors driving growth in popularity

There seems to be no singular reason for the increased surge in golf and spa breaks for couples but, after doing some research, we boiled it down to a few factors.

Best of both worlds – while saving money

While the cost of living crisis hit many people’s holiday budgets, one way to save was to combine a hobby with a holiday.

Corrie Renton said: “Taking a golf holiday together allows couples to reduce the number of trips they spend money on during a cost-of-living crisis without sacrificing their own hobbies and interests.”

Instead of having a golf holiday for one and another holiday together, some couples have been combining the holiday so the golfer gets time on the fairways and the non-golfer can still enjoy the surroundings of Spain, Portugal or Morocco.

Women’s golf on the rise

Since the pandemic, interest in women’s golfing has been on a steady increase. In fact, according to the National Golf Foundation, 800,000 American women took up the sport between 2020 and 2022[1]. With its wide-open fairways and built-in social distancing, golf was considered one of the safest activities during lockdown[2].

Ehab Youssef added: “During the pandemic, outdoor activities became a go-to for couples wanting to get out of the house but stay safe. Golf naturally fits that need – it’s outdoors, socially distanced, and it gets people moving without being too physically demanding.

“It’s also a game that can be played by women of any age – so whether couples are in their 30s, 50s, or 70s, they can enjoy it together without worrying about physical limitations.”

Major female golf tournaments, such as the LPGA Tour, are also now being broadcast worldwide, drawing in global audiences and showcasing record-breaking prize pots. In 2024, the total prize fund hit an all-time high of $2.2 million![3].

And with golfing personalities like Trisha Alyn creating a buzz on social media about tournaments and what the game can provide for women, the motivation to pick up the sport has never been stronger.

Couples bonding

While ‘lads holidays’ and ‘girls holidays’ are still major money makers, couples holidays have become increasingly popular.

Nearly two thirds (63%) of people are most likely to book a UK holiday with their significant other – jumping up 5% from 2023 – according to Verdant Leisure’s 2024 Travel Trend Report[4].

It’s clear couples are looking for more meaningful connections, preferring to venture to spa and wellness retreats over drinking hotspots.

Ann Mercer, psychologist and co-founder of Positive Life Answers, explains that a trip together “breaks you out of your daily routine and provides the refresh your relationship may need.[5]”

The WAG effect

While footballers have been known to have their wives and girlfriends – or WAGs – in the stands supporting them, the rise in golfing power couples is a relatively new phenomenon.

The Open in Troon in July 2024, which corresponds to the rise in searches for golfing couples, saw Erica Stoll supporting husband Rory McIlroy, while Colin Morikawa’s wife Katherine Zhu takes a more hands-on approach – she caddies for him.

Golf was often seen as a way for men to get away from the home – but this new breed of golfers show that it can be something you do as a couple.

Ehab Youssef added: “One of the biggest benefits I’ve seen in my clients is that golf provides a perfect opportunity for quality time. It’s rare to find an activity where you can spend several hours together, enjoying nature, and actually have time to chat.”

Why is a golf and spa break the ultimate retreat?

Golf and spa breaks offer the ideal getaway for couples, offering the perfect balance between active and leisurely pursuits.

Even if one partner isn’t a golf enthusiast, the added luxury of a spa allows each person to enjoy their favourite activities independently and come together in the evening.

“Golf can serve as a mini escape from the stresses of work, family life, and the digital distractions that seem to pull us away from each other,” claims Ehab Youssef.

Golf also encourages teamwork and healthy competition. Some couples love the idea of playing on the same team during tournaments, according to Ehab Youssef, working together to strategize their next move.

Others enjoy a friendly rivalry – pushing each other to improve their skills in a supportive, fun way.

He added: “This blend of collaboration and competition can strengthen the bond between partners, as it challenges them to communicate, support each other, and maybe even laugh off a bad shot together.”

Golf can also provide a great outlet for stress, according to Ehab Youssef: “This is something I’ve heard repeatedly from couples in therapy. A few hours outside, walking on the green, and being fully present in the game can be incredibly grounding.

“For many couples, golf has become a way to de-stress together – turning what could be a solo relaxation activity into a shared experience.”

Top tips for planning your golf and spa holiday

If you think a golf and spa holiday might be for you, then it’s time to get planning.

Here are some top tips to consider while planning your perfect golfing getaway:

Choose the right destination: Look for resorts that cater to both of your interests. Why not opt for an all-inclusive golf package or, for an extra special holiday, venture to a 5* golf resort.
Assess your budget: Whether you’re after a cheap golf holiday or a luxury golf holiday, we have something to suit all budgets.
Proximity to golf course: If you opt for a multi-course golf tour package, make sure to choose a central accommodation that offers easy accessibility or shuttle services.
Check the facilities: Does your chosen resort have all the facilities you’re looking for? Whether you fancy a game of tennis or a dip in the outdoor pool, make sure to review what’s on offer.
Plan other activities: You’ve chosen to go away with your partner so make the most of it. Make sure to plan some couple’s activities alongside the golfing such as yoga, water sports or, for a relaxed afternoon, wine tasting.