Golf

The Royal Golf of Marrakech

The Royal Golf of Marrakech

Marrakech is often praised as a city of gardens, but as the years go by, it's becoming more renowned as a city of golf courses. The oldest green, located at the gateway to the palm groves towards Ouarzazate, is the Royal Golf of Marrakech.

The first ball was struck here in 1923. Initiated by Hadj Thami El Glaoui Mezouari, a former Pacha of the time, the course has undergone numerous transformations since. The first changes were made by a trio of great professionals, including the Frenchman Arnaud Massy, regarded by some as the greatest player of all time. Over the years, the fairways under the snow-capped Atlas have attracted some of the biggest names of the last century, such as His Majesty Hassan II and Presidents Winston Churchill and Eisenhower. 
 

In 2008, thanks to the combined efforts of an expert from Rabat and a talented specialized architect, the golf course added 9 more holes, bringing the total to 27. These 3 pars in 36 strokes are cleverly spread across the 74 magnificently wooded hectares of the property. Among all challenges, the complexity of certain holes can be daunting. Especially the one nicknamed "Les seins de Brigitte Bardot" due to two mounds at the entrance of the green, which might seem playful but hide the technical skill required to make a par in 3 strokes.

The base course, named Koutoubia, spans 3014 meters. While it's relatively challenging, it remains very exhilarating (marked in beige on the map). The second 9-hole, Agdal, is the smallest of the three, stretching over 2939 meters. Its starting point near the club house, makes it an ideal beginning (marked in green on the map). The newest course, Menara, winds between water hazards and bunkers over 3072 meters, presenting delightful challenges (marked in blue on the map)
 
Set amidst dense yet perfectly manicured vegetation, the Club House “Les Jardins de l’Eden”, is the hot spot where golfers and outsiders mingle over snacks or meals. The grilled dishes are particularly popular before a round, enjoyed on the restaurant's terrace.

 

Peak season rates from 09/01 to 06/30
One day: 550 Dhs
18 holes: 500 Dhs
9 holes: 350 Dhs
Junior (-18 years) 18 holes: 250 Dhs   
Junior (-18 years) 9 holes: 150 Dhs   

Off-peak season rates from 07/01 to 08/31
One day: 350 Dhs
18 holes: 300 Dhs
Junior (-18 years) 18 holes: 200 Dhs   

 

Text C. Alary

Photo Made in Marrakech

Published: Nov 13, 2024

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