Mar Menor Golf Resort

The Mar Menor Golf Course is one of the most distinctive in the region. The front nine was designed by Dave Thomas, the man behind the Brabazon at The Belfry. Tight fairways, strategic bunkering, a precision test for any handicap.

The back nine is by Nicklaus Design, wider, more American in style, encouraging bolder play. But don't be lulled: holes 13, 14 and 15, the “Amen Corner”, are surrounded by a large lake and are the most dramatic stretch on the course.

Book directly through the resort pro shop or online. Green fees vary by season, so book ahead during peak periods.

Opened in 2022, Club MMGR is the resort's sports and social hub, a short walk from the villa. Day and weekly passes are available.

Padel in particular has taken off here: there are several courts, open for casual play or bookable coaching sessions, and it's one of the most popular ways to spend a warm evening on the resort.

There's also a new gym now open on El Boulevard, just outside the resort, worth knowing about if you fancy an alternative to Club MMGR.

The entire resort is a 24-hour security gated community. Access via the RM-F28 entrance; see Finding Us for directions.

The Ona Mar Menor five-star hotel sits at the heart of the resort. Its spa, pools and restaurants are open to non-residents, and it often has live music, quiz nights or seasonal events on, worth keeping an eye on notice boards or asking at reception during your stay.