DESTINATIONGOLF. TRAVEL DESTINATION GOLF GLOBAL GUIDE 2026 about restarting operations. We had to adapt quickly, implement new protocols, and at the same time maintain the standards people expect from Chaparral. There were moments of real uncertainty, particularly in terms of tourism and international travel, which are so important for us.
But that period also strengthened the club. It brought the team closer together and reinforced the importance of resilience and adaptability.
DG: Chaparral celebrates its 20th Anniversary in 2026. How has Chaparral evolved over the years and what special occasions are planned? Domingo: Chaparral has evolved from being a well-known local course into an established international destination. The focus has been on continuous improvement— both on the course and in the overall experience. For the 20th anniversary, we are planning a series of events that celebrate our history, our members, partners and our visitors. It’ s a moment to reflect, but also to look forward.
DG: Course conditioning has become such a key talking point for travelling golfers. How much pride do you take in presenting the course day to day and what investments have been made by owners to ensure that the course is always presented in top condition? Domingo: It is one of our biggest priorities. Conditioning is the first thing a golfer notices, and it reflects the standards of the club. The ownership has been very committed in this area, investing in maintenance, machinery, and our greenkeeping team. It’ s a daily effort, and we take great pride in it.
DG: The Costa del Sol is one of Europe’ s great golf destinations. What do you believe sets Chaparral apart in such a competitive market? Domingo: Our identity. We are a parkland course by the sea, which is quite unique. The layout, the tranquillity, and the atmosphere create a different experience. We focus on quality, but also on making every guest feel welcome and valued.
DG: Golf tourism continues to evolve. What“ golf experiences” are today’ s golfers looking for that perhaps they weren’ t demanding ten years ago? Domingo: Today’ s golfers are looking for more than just a round of golf. They want a complete experience, quality facilities, good gastronomy, efficient service, and a memorable environment. Attention to detail is more important than ever.
DG: Are there any memorable stories from your days in golf management, good or bad, involving guests, tournaments, weather, or unexpected moments that still make you smile? Domingo: There are many. Golf always brings unexpected moments, weather changes, incredible shots, or situations you cannot predict. One that stands out recently is Manu Morugán, who set the course record with a 63(-9) during the Andalucía Golf Tournament last year. What makes it even more special is that he broke his own previous record. Performances like that are always memorable because they showcase the very best of the course and the level of golf we can host here at Chaparral. But beyond records, what stays with you are the positive experiences- when guests leave happy, having enjoyed both the course and the atmosphere, and want to return. That is always the best story.
DG: Why do you think golfers from the UK, Ireland and Europe continue to have such a strong affinity with golf in southern Spain? Domingo: It’ s a combination of climate, accessibility, and quality. The Costa del Sol offers consistency; you can plan a trip with confidence. And there is a long tradition of welcoming international golfers, which creates loyalty.
DG: If you were standing on the first tee with someone playing Chaparral for the very first time, what would you tell them to expect from the round ahead? Domingo: I would tell them to enjoy the experience and to stay focused. Chaparral is not a course where you can switch off, it challenges you on every shot. But at the same time, it rewards good decisions and precision. And of course, to take in the surroundings. It’ s a very special setting.
DG: Every great course has a few signature moments. Are there particular holes at Chaparral Golf Club that you feel define its character? Domingo: There are several, but what really defines Chaparral is the variety and the way the course interacts with the natural environment. Each hole asks a different question, which keeps the round interesting from start to finish. If I had to highlight one truly signature moment, it would be the 8th hole. It features the iconic tree in the middle of the fairway, the chaparro, which actually gives the club its name. It’ s a very visual and strategic hole. From the tee, you immediately have to make a decision: how much you want to challenge it and how you want to shape your shot around it. It’ s a perfect example of what Chaparral is about: strategy, character, and a strong connection to nature.
DG: For someone planning a golf trip to the region, why should Chaparral Golf Club be on their itinerary? Give us your pitch. Domingo: Because it offers something different. Chaparral is a course that challenges you but also allows you to enjoy the surroundings and the atmosphere. It’ s a complete experience from the first tee to the clubhouse. If you are visiting the Costa del Sol, it’ s a course you should not miss. DG: Finally, what still excites you most about coming to
work at a golf course every day? Domingo: No two days are the same. You are working in a natural environment, with people from all over the world, and always striving to improve. That combination keeps it interesting and motivating.
For more information and bookings, visit: WWW. GOLFELCHAPARRAL. COM
49