Looking for a Truly Unique Golf Holiday? Choose Morocco...

Where Culture, Luxury, & Mystique Intersect for the Perfect Adventure

Words: Abbey Algiers
Image: The Royal Marrakesh Golf Club

One of the best things about being a golfer is the ability to enjoy the sport anywhere in the world! So why not add an exotic destination to your must-visit list and take your golf holiday to the next level? If this kind of getaway sounds like your style, Morocco should be on your radar. Imagine playing world-class golf courses, wandering through enchanting markets, sampling delicious cuisine, and taking in breathtaking landscapes, from mountains to deserts to coastal villages - all while surrounded by some of the friendliest people on the planet. 

With over 40 golf courses, Morocco offers plenty of options for an unforgettable golf escape. Tee off with the snow-capped Atlas Mountains as your backdrop, tackle championship courses with challenging layouts, forested fairways, and cliffside holes, or experience links-style golf complemented by stunning Atlantic Ocean views. With so many possibilities, choosing where to start can be tough. So, let’s focus on three cities with incredible nearby courses that make the perfect starting point or basecamp for your Moroccan golf adventure. 

Rabat

This charming capital city is located on the northwestern Atlantic coast, about 90 kilometers from Casablanca. The city is a designated UNESCO Heritage Site and features UNESCO landmarks such as Hassan Tower and Kasbah of the Udayas, a 12th-century fortress with blue and white houses.  Palm-lined boulevards show off Rabat’s art deco and colonial architecture while the cafes, boutiques, museums, and vibrant arts and festival scene make Rabat a highly desired destination. Wander the Medina for unique shopping experiences or head to the Bouregreg River for a sunset boat ride. Plus, if you love the beach, you’ll appreciate its seaside location and gorgeous beaches. 

Just minutes from Rabat’s historic city center is one of Morocco’s most prestigious courses, the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam. This Robert Trent Jones Sr designed course is considered one of the finest golf destinations in Africa.

Golf

Just minutes from Rabat’s historic city center is one of Morocco’s most prestigious courses, the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam. This Robert Trent Jones Sr designed course is considered one of the finest golf destinations in Africa, hosting notable tournaments such as the Hassan II Trophy and Lalla Meryem Cup. Choose from three diverse courses - the 18-hole “red course” designed for professionals, the 18-hole “blue course” with fast greens and challenging fairways, and the more relaxing 9- hole “green course.” Beyond the courses, find a driving range and golf academy, plus a spa center, pool, and tennis courts. 

Photo (Middle, Right): Assoufid Golf Club

Stay 

Adjacent to the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam is The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salaam. Set on 440 acres of lush forest and gardens, the property blends Moroccan traditional design with Art Deco and features 117 spacious rooms and suites with private terraces overlooking the gardens or golf course. Unwind in saunas, hammams, treatment rooms or indoor pool of the Ritz-Carlton Spa, or enjoy a workout at the 24/7 fitness center and tennis courts. Dining on the property offers options from Mediterranean fare to poolside dining, a lobby lounge for tea, and a 1920s-inspired speakeasy.  

Getting to Rabat:  Fly into Rabat-Salé Airport or take the hour-long train from Casablanca. In addition, buses and private car hires are available from other parts of Morocco.

Photo (Left): Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, Photo (Right): The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salaam

Marrakech

Can snowcapped mountain views and palm trees, plus cypress, eucalyptus, olive, orange, and apricot trees exist in one place?  The answer is yes, in Marrakech. It’s known as the “Red City” for its red clay and sandstone buildings, walls, and monuments. Marrakech has the perfect combination of ancient traditions mixing with a modern vibe.  Don’t miss the bustling Jemaa el-Fna Square, the countless souks (markets) for handmade goods, Bahia Palace and Koutoubia Mosque, and the iconic Majorelle Garden and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Relax at a traditional hammam, or sip afternoon tea at the luxurious palace hotel, La Mamounia.  

GOLF 

The Assoufid Golf Club is one of the finest courses in Marrakech, with a desert-style layout and stunning views of the Atlas Mountains. The 18-hole, par-72 course has challenging greens and strategically placed bunkers, yet is playable for golfers of all levels. Exceptional practice facilities (driving range, putting greens, and short-game areas) and golf professionals at the ready could help you not only relax, but also shave some points off your score. Post-round, relax in the elegant clubhouse with panoramic views and an international blend of cuisine. Don’t leave without visiting the pro shop for gorgeous high-end merchandise. 

Additional golf options are found at The Royal Marrakech Golf Club, one of the oldest in Morocco and located close to the medina and the Al Maaden Golf Resort, known for its beautiful layout and challenging bunkers and water hazards throughout.

Photo (Left): Assoufid Golf Club, Photo (Right): Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech

The Assoufid Golf Club is one of the finest courses in Marrakech, with a desert-style layout and stunning views of the Atlas Mountains.

Stay

A relaxing, upscale stay is found just outside the city at the Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech featuring an 18-hole championship golf course, spa with wellness treatments and Moroccan Hamman, and Marrakech’s largest swimming pool.  

Getting to Marrakech: Fly into Menara Airport (RAK), and head to the city center via take shuttle buses, taxis, or private transfer. 

Essaouira

Art lovers will want to check out Essaouira, a quaint, seaside city where one can relax by the sea, enjoy a UNESCO medina, or discover eclectic artisan shops and souks (markets) for jewelry, ceramics, and other Moroccan specialties -without the crowds of the city. Known for its numerous galleries and celebrated music events, Essaouira has a laid-back vibe and an appeal all its own. Wander the streets and enjoy the relaxed vibe of Essaouira. 

GOLF 

Just 15 minutes from the city center, highlighted by dunes, forest, and ocean views is the popular Mogador Golf Club. The club features two Gary Player designed courses - one a championship 18-hole par 72 course, and the other is a more technical design with a focus on precision and strategy.  

Stay

Next to the Mogador Golf Club, is the Hotel Le Golf D’Essaouira & Spa - a contemporary hotel with refined dining, a spa, and sophisticated rooms, plus an extensive list of amenities including a pool, fitness center, and services for families.    

Getting to Essaouira: Planes, buses, taxis and private transfers are all excellent ways to get to Essaouira.  

Art lovers will want to check out Essaouira, a quaint, seaside city where one can relax by the sea, enjoy a UNESCO medina, or discover eclectic artisan shops and souks (markets).