Villarrin Golf Course

Villarrín Golf Course opened in 1998 as the first public course in the province of Zamora, laid out by Manuel Piñero — part of the Ryder Cup generation that shaped Spanish golf alongside Seve Ballesteros — on 24 hectares of natural meadowland inside the Villafáfila Lagoons Nature Reserve, one of Spain's most significant steppe wetlands. Zamora, Benavente, Toro and Villalpando all sit within about 35 kilometres, connected by motorway.

The layout is flat and walkable, but rarely straightforward: the Salado river crosses the fairways more than once, and lakes come into play throughout. Nine holes are played twice from different tees, making up a full round. Wide fairways give some breathing room off the tee; flat, well-kept greens reward a settled short game. It rewards patience more than power.

The clubhouse has a café and restaurant, and the practice facilities include a driving range, pitching green and putting green — useful for sharpening your short game before heading out. Club and buggy rental are available on site, along with lessons for those keen to work on their swing. Book your round at Villarrín and take advantage of preferred rates through Tee Times — a straightforward, uncrowded day of golf inside one of Castile's more distinctive nature reserves.