Spain offers tennis enthusiasts a wealth of options for combining their passion with a luxurious getaway, from star-studded resorts in Marbella to world-class academies and the pristine courts of La Manga Club.
As autumn slowly turns to winter and summer holidays are just a fading memory, tennis enthusiasts might think that a quick getaway to Spain might just be what they need. If they do, they are spoilt for choice when combining their passion for the sport with a luxurious getaway. From the star-studded resorts of Marbella to the hallowed grounds of a tennis legend's academy, we've comprehensively compared Spain's top tennis havens. Whether you're looking to perfect your backhand or enjoy a leisurely volley under the Mediterranean sky, these resorts offer a smashing combination of world-class facilities and luxurious amenities.
La Manga Club: The Crown Jewel of Spanish Tennis
Set in the picturesque region of Murcia, La Manga Club's Racquets Club stands head and shoulders above the competition. This sprawling tennis holiday paradise boasts an impressive 28 courts, including 20 meticulously maintained clay courts that would make even the most discerning clay-court specialist weak at the knees. The remaining eight courts are evenly split between hard surfaces and AstroTurf, ensuring that players of all preferences are well-catered.
La Manga's tennis pedigree is unmatched, having hosted prestigious events such as Davis Cup matches and ATP tournaments. As an official partner of Tennis Europe and an LTA overseas training base, the resort's commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of its offerings.
The recently transformed Racquets Club now features seven floodlit padel tennis courts, three full panoramic all with the same artificial grass used on the World Padel Tour, a state-of-the-art fitness hub, a charming court-side coffee house and bistro, and a new restaurant that perfectly captures the essence of Spanish leisure. With up to 18 multilingual pros available during peak season, La Manga offers an unparalleled range of coaching options, from private lessons to weekly academies that combine group instruction with social matches and tournaments.
Puente Romano Beach Resort: Marbella's Tennis Gem
While smaller in scale, Marbella's Puente Romano Beach Resort punches well above its weight in terms of tennis prestige. The resort's ten courts, comprising eight clay and two plexipave surfaces, have seen their fair share of tennis royalty since the club's inauguration by Björn Borg in 1979.
Since 1983, Puente Romano has been managed by Wimbledon champion Manolo Santana. It has hosted legends like Boris Becker and John McEnroe. The resort's central court, capable of seating 2,500 spectators, adds a touch of grandeur and has even been used for concerts, blending sport and entertainment.
Puente Romano's tennis facilities include four paddle tennis courts and a fully equipped gym featuring the latest Technogym machinery. The resort's spa services and on-site restaurants round out the offering, ensuring guests can indulge in post-match relaxation and gourmet dining.
Rafa Nadal Academy: Train Like a Champion
For those seeking to follow in the footsteps of greatness, the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca offers an immersive tennis experience steeped in the philosophy of one of the sport's greatest champions. The academy boasts 15 courts, including clay, hard, and even a solitary paddle court.
What sets the Rafa Nadal Academy apart is its holistic approach to tennis and wellness. The facility includes a cutting-edge sports clinic, a museum dedicated to Nadal's illustrious career, and a range of fitness and wellness services. Three unique restaurants and a players' buffet cater to the nutritional needs of aspiring champions and leisure players.
The academy's accommodation is designed with the tennis enthusiast in mind, integrating training and relaxation. However, the focus here is undeniably on serious tennis development, making it perhaps less suitable for those seeking a more relaxed tennis holiday.
Sotogrande Racquet Centre: Boutique Tennis Experience
The Sotogrande Racquet Centre at La Reserva Club offers a more intimate tennis setting with its four competition-grade clay courts. While it may not match the scale of La Manga or Puente Romano, Sotogrande compensates with its attention to detail and the exclusivity of its setting.
The centre's commitment to tennis and paddle tennis is evident, with five glass-walled paddle courts complementing the tennis facilities. The Racquet Centre's extended opening hours, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, cater to early birds and night owls alike.
Sotogrande's charm lies in its high-quality facilities and a more relaxed, club-like atmosphere. It's ideal for those who prefer a less crowded environment but still demand top-notch playing conditions.
Hotel Don Carlos
The Club de Tenis y Padel at Hotel Don Carlos in Marbella may be the dark horse in this comparison. It offers a more modest but commendable tennis setup with six tennis courts split evenly between clay and plexipave surfaces.
While details about its facilities are less readily available, the resort does provide coaching services. It maintains a gym, making it a viable option for those seeking a quieter tennis getaway. However, it lacks its more famous counterparts' comprehensive amenities and grand scale.
Comparison at a Glance
To help you serve up the perfect tennis holiday, here's a quick comparison of the key features:
| Feature | La Manga Club | Puente Romano | Rafa Nadal Academy | Sotogrande | Hotel Don Carlos |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total Courts | 28 | 10 | 15 | 46 | - |
| Clay Courts | 20 | 8 | 44 | 2 | - |
| Hard/Plexipave Courts | 8 | 2 | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| Padel Courts | 7 | 4 | 15 | 0 | - |
| Gym Facilities | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Spa Services | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| On-site Restaurants | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Professional Coaching | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 5-Star Hotel | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| On-site Golf Courses | 3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
The Verdict
While each resort offers unique charm and facilities, La Manga Club emerges as the clear winner for the ultimate tennis holiday in Spain. Its unparalleled range of courts, world-class coaching, and comprehensive resort amenities make it the perfect choice for serious players and leisure enthusiasts.
Puente Romano follows closely behind, offering a glamorous Marbella setting and a rich tennis heritage. The Rafa Nadal Academy presents an unmatched opportunity for focused tennis development, while Sotogrande provides a more exclusive, boutique experience. Though more modest in its offerings, Hotel Don Carlos still presents a viable option for those seeking a low-key tennis retreat.
Whichever resort you choose, Spain's tennis facilities promise to deliver a holiday filled with sunshine, sport, and unforgettable memories. So pack your racquet, don your whites, and prepare for a tennis adventure that will leave you longing to return to the sun-kissed courts of Spain year after year.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Property?
Browse our latest properties or get in touch with our expert team