Royal Golf de Marrakech

The Old Course at Royal Golf de Marrakech, established in 1923, holds the distinction of being Morocco's first golf course and one of the oldest in continental Africa. The original design came from Arnaud Massy, the French professional who won the 1907 Open Championship at Hoylake and remains the only Frenchman to claim that title. His routing took advantage of the relatively flat terrain at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, incorporating mature trees and water features that have matured significantly over the decades. Subsequent modifications by Moroccan architect Bouchaib Stitou and Portuguese designer Gustavo Golias have updated the course while preserving its historical character. The layout unfolds across parkland terrain with generous fairways lined by eucalyptus, palm, and olive trees, creating a verdant contrast to the surrounding arid landscape. Water comes into play on several holes, and the mature vegetation provides both definition and strategic challenge. The Atlas Mountains form a dramatic backdrop, particularly visible from elevated tee boxes. The course measures relatively modest by modern standards, reflecting its golden-age origins, but the tree-lined corridors and strategic bunkering require accurate shot-making. Royal Golf de Marrakech has served as a social and sporting center for the city's elite since its founding, with the club maintaining traditional membership protocols. The facility has hosted various Moroccan national championships and regional amateur events over its century of operation, contributing to the development of golf in North Africa.