A new study of European golfers' habits reveals that Spain remains the top tourist destination for travelers from the UK, France, Germany, and Scandinavia. More than 28% of those surveyed played golf in Spain during the last 12 months.

These findings are part of a new document entitled “European Spotlight on Golf Tourism to Spain” which was commissioned by Reed Travel Exhibitions, organizers of the IGTM (which will take place from November 11 to 14, 2013 on the Costa Dorada) and prepared by Sports Marketing Surveys Inc.

Of the 28.5% golfers who traveled to Spain to play golf, 12.7% visited the Costa del Sol; 3.9% went to the Costa Brava; 3.2% went to the Canary Islands and 8.7% went to other areas.

The study also reveals the popularity of other destinations: 17% visited Portugal; 16.1% traveled to Great Britain and Ireland; 7.5% booked trips to Turkey; 7.1% stopped in France and 6.9% crossed the pond to go to the United States.

The following findings stand out among the data from this study:

. The average duration of a golf trip to Spain is seven nights.

. Tourists traveling to Spain usually stay in four and five star establishments.

. Golf tourists spend between 170 euros (British golfers) and 230 euros (Scandinavians) daily.

. Golfers typically play five or six rounds during each golf trip.

. During a week-long holiday, the golfers play four different Spanish courses.

The study also reveals that the golfer's nationality influences the region they choose: the British and Scandinavians prefer the Costa del Sol; the French usually opt for the Costa Brava and the Germans travel to all regions, including the Canary Islands.

“This latest study shows that Spain continues to lead the European golf tourism industry and illustrates why thousands of golfers continue to prefer its regions,” explains Peter Grimster, director of the IGTM trade fair.

“Among the key factors that put Spain ahead of its rivals are the level and diversity of its golf courses, the high quality of its accommodations and the good weather throughout the year.”.

The reputation of the Costa Dorada, which is hosting the 2013 IGTM this year, as a golf destination is growing rapidly. Three years ago, international golfers booked less than 21% of the rounds played on the Costa Dorada, and that percentage has now risen to 30% and continues to climb.