The emerald oases backdropped by Morocco’s Atlas Mountains

Spain has long been first choice for a sun-kissed golfing trip in the Mediterranean. Yet across the Strait of Gibraltar, Morocco is emerging as a new challenger.

For those eyeing a sun-kissed golfing trip in the Mediterranean, Spain has long been first choice. Yet across the Strait of Gibraltar, a new challenger is emerging. Morocco is staking its claim as an enchanting North African alternative to the well-trodden golfing hotspots on the Iberian Peninsula, with the “Red City” of Marrakech leading the way. Framed by the High Atlas in the distance, the city’s cacophony of narrow streets, surrounded by arid desert, may seem like a hostile environment for golf. Yet venturing out just past the bustling ancient medina and souks reveals a flourish of sprawling fairways, with more than 10 lush courses to choose from. These emerald oases hidden around Marrakech include Golf Club Rotana Palmeraie, a 60-hectare course just a 20-minute drive north of the city center. Splayed out on the doorsteps of 11 riad-style five-star hotel suites, the 18-hole course is the brainchild of legendary English-American golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr, whose fabled career saw him inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame before his death in 2000. Seven lakes intersect a 6,214-meter setup inundated with palm trees, which are an attractive resting spot for storks. The sight of the large wading birds swooping down, Atlas Mountains towering in the background, makes for memorable moments for players, who typically come from France, the United Kingdom and Nordic countries.