What is the Mar del Plata Golf Club and where is it (and why is it called “The Cathedral of Golf”)?
If you are looking for Mar del Plata Golf Club, what you want to see is this club in Playa Grande, a mythical institution in Argentina, with a clubhouse Tudor style inaugurated in 1926 and an aura that earned him the nickname “The Cathedral of Golf”. It is in front of Playa Grande (direction Aristóbulo del Valle 3940) and brings together history, sea views and two courts with very different profiles.
Among the things that most catch your eye upon arrival are the building and the panoramic views. It's no coincidence that several people summarize their visit as "beautiful place, the House is spectacular"and that you go to eat "for the view" and end up staying. At the same time, others point out that Not all areas are accessible to non-members; if you go as a visitor, the usual circuit is the restaurant (I'll tell you how to book and what to expect below). This contrast between the exclusive and the open to the public is part of the identity of the Mar del Plata Golf Club.
Old Course (links, Playa Grande): characteristics, wind and fast greens
The Old Court is the emblem: a British links 18 holes, par 70 for gentlemen (72 for ladies), with 6,052 yds (5,560 for ladies). It is short and wavy, with narrow fairways and sandy base. The grace—and the challenge—is in the fast greens with marked slopes, plus the wind which changes the equation: when it blows, it makes you change of club and think about every stroke. It is not uncommon to hear “the greens run" among those who play it for the first time.
A little tip that adds up: if you go to see or photograph, the sunset falls beautifully on the holes near the clubhouse. And yes, there are comments about unauthorized areas (such as terraces), something to be expected in a club with clear access rules.
New Court (Park, Peralta Ramos): route, practices and who is suitable for
A few kilometers away, you have the New Court: 18 holes park type, par 71 (73 for ladies), with 6,257 yds for gentlemen (5.678 for ladies). It is wooded, on a property of 50 hectares, and was born in 1956 with design of Ricardo W. Mackinlay. Here the game is more “serene” in appearance, but not easy. For many visitors, it is the ideal option for practice, fine-tune the tee shot and the green shot without the crazy wind of Playa Grande.
Key for those seeking to improve: the Driving range is on the New Court, with natural and synthetic grass cat flaps; it is spacious and allows practice all the suits. If you go in mode range + coffee, take note that the club communicates the driving as part of their Services (schedules may change seasonally, please check first).
Restaurant with a View: How to Book, What to Expect, and Guideline Prices
Can you join without being a member? Yes, to the restaurant. He bar with ocean view is exclusive to members/guest players, but the restaurant that gives to the terrace and the court is open to the publicThe most practical thing is book by phone (+54 223 486-2323) and, if you can, ask for a table near the window: the green + sea it's a winning combo.
Regarding the dining experience, the reviews I reviewed paint a picture positive with nuances: several people talk about good service and "reasonable prices to the place”, while others point out the pastry could be improved or details of crockeryMy advice: go by sight and by postcard; on the menu, aim for simple, seasonal dishes. If you're going with a group, be clear. split bills either wine preferences avoid surprises.
Non-member access: what is allowed and what is not (dress code and etiquette)
Here are some rules you should know before you go:
- Restaurant: open to the public (ideal to reserve).
- Bar: exclusive for members and invited players (at night it can be used as a restaurant for members and spouses).
- Outfit: the club asks appropriate clothing; No T-shirts sleeveless neither hat inside the Club House. The general tone is of etiquette and conduct cared for.
- Parking lot: the non-members that pay green fee and the restaurant visitors have specific areas and seasonal restrictions.
Again, several reviews reflect the same thing: They do not allow free movement terraces/greens if you are not a member or guest; to the restaurant yes. If you go alone to take photos, better call ahead or combine booking and take advantage of lunch/snack to get to know the House from the inside.
History in 5 milestones: 1896–1900–1918–1926 and the Southern Tournament
- 1890–1896: the first blows on the dunes of Playa Grande; the lines are drawn first 9 holes (1896).
- 1900: foundation from the Mar del Plata Golf Club.
- 1918: is born on Grand Prix (today Southern Republic Championship, 72 holes).
- 1926: is inaugurated on Tudor Clubhouse.
- 1956: the inauguration of the New Court in Peralta Ramos.
Since then, the club has consolidated its nickname “The Cathedral of Golf” due to the difficulty of the terrain and its competitive tradition.
Quick comparison table: Old Court vs. New Court
| Feature | Old Court (Playa Grande) | New Court (Peralta Ramos) |
|---|---|---|
| Style | Links British, wavy | Park, very wooded |
| Pair (gentlemen/ladies) | 70 / 72 | 71 / 73 |
| Yardage (gentlemen/ladies) | 6,052 yds / 5,560 yds | 6,257 yds / 5,678 yds |
| Typical difficulty | Wind crossed, fast greens with falls | Trees and park design; less wind |
| Ideal for… | Those looking for a postcard view of the sea and a classic challenge | Who wants practice more and play “long” without so much wind |
| Practice | Putting/club areas | Driving range at the headquarters |
| Extra | “The Cathedral of Golf”, historic tournaments | Own clubhouse, school and practices |
| Source: pages Courts and Services from the official site. |
Holes and typical situations at Playa Grande (links)
- Crosswind par 3: Hit a half-club higher, ground the ball on the high side of the green, and accept a two-stroke putt.
- Short par 4 with elevated green: tee off with an iron, leave a full second shot, and avoid the “downhill putt” side.
- A tailwind par 5: Think smart layup; the firm green punishes ambition without an angle.
How to read greens with an ocean view
- The dominant drop usually "hooks" toward the lower elevation; if you're unsure between two lines, choose the more conservative one and control your speed.
- On downhill putts, keep your backstroke short and focus entirely on rhythm; the first meter decides everything.
Perfect 90-minute itinerary for non-members
- Arrival 0'–10': Visual walk from the entrance and reservation check-in.
- 10'–65': table by the window, photos with sidelight if it's sunset.
- 65'–90': A leisurely coffee and a quick look around the House lobby before leaving.
Etiquette Checklist
I asked permission before photographing people.
Polo shirt or shirt, closed shoes, cap outside the interior.
Low voice in the living room, silent cell phone.
Practical tips: best time for photos, parking and contact
- Photos: Sunset and days with high cloud cover soften shadows and enhance the green.
- Parking: Please respect the designated visitor areas; if you're visiting during peak season, please allow plenty of time.
- Reservations: Call 24–48 hours in advance; if you're interested in practicing, confirm driving range availability on the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I join if I'm not a member?
Yes, to the restaurant with a reservation; the bar and premium areas are for members or guests.
Where do I practice if I want to hit balls?
At the Peralta Ramos headquarters, where the driving range is located.
What is the basic dress code?
Neat clothing; avoid tank tops and keep hats indoors.
Why is it known as “The Cathedral of Golf”?
For the unique combination of oceanfront links, competitive tradition, and technical demands.
