Tucked into the hillside just west of Palma, Real Golf de Bendinat is the sort of course where I always have a quick look around before pulling a club. The views alone are worth the trip. The layout winds through a wooded landscape, with fairways framed by mature trees and plenty of elevation change to keep things interesting. From a few points on the course you'll spot Palma Bay below and Bendinat Castle sitting proudly above the property.
Measuring around 6,200 yards from the back tees, this par-70 doesn't try to overpower you with length. It's a more thoughtful test where placement matters, fairways can tilt and the trees ask you to shape shots rather than simply swing away. The slopes and tree lines make club selection interesting, especially when fairways fall away and leave you playing from a hanging lie. Bunkers are positioned to catch anything slightly loose and the greens tend to reward precision more than power.
With the climbs between holes, I'd seriously consider a buggy, especially if you're planning more than one round in a day. The upside is Mallorca's year-round golfing weather, so Bendinat is an easy pick for a short break, a winter escape or a Palma-based golf tour.
It also sits in excellent company. Santa Ponsa, Son Vida, Son Quint and Golf Son Muntaner are all within 15 minutes, which makes it simple to build a varied Mallorca itinerary without spending half the day in the car.
Who is this for?
Golfers looking for a scenic, strategic test in the hills above Palma, with enough variety and challenge to keep mid-to-low handicappers engaged and enough charm to appeal to anyone who values views and course character over pure yardage.
Who is it best for?
Players who enjoy target golf, shaping shots around trees and navigating elevation, and those building a Mallorca break around multiple courses in the Palma area who want something different from the flatter resort layouts nearby.
