Costa del Sol, Southern Spain has a fine collection of varied golf courses, making it the ideal location for a short break for golf enthusiasts of all standards and tastes.
Costa del Sol reinvented itself a half century ago as Europe’s go-to winter golfing destination. It’s ideal climate boasting more than 300 days of sunshine each year, plus the ease of travelling between UK and Malaga with short frequent flights, makes Costa del Sol the perfect golfing destination. Many courses here have marvellous views of the Mediterranean Sea and the countryside, adding to the appeal of playing amid breathtaking surroundings.
Costa del Sol became a force to be reckoned with, in terms of golf, with the opening of the Real Club de Golf in Sotogrande. This gorgeous course was designed in 1964 by Robert Trent Jones. Today, there are over 100 golf courses in the region, with something for everyone, from great value courses to prestigious ones that have hosted international tournaments.
The most famous golf course in Costa del Sol is the Valderrama, which is situated in Sotogrande. This course hosted the 1997 Ryder Cup, and is another work of art by Robert Trent Jones. Not only is it one of the best golf courses in Spain, it also ranks high in mainland Europe. The Valderrama is situated right next door to La Reserva, another top golf course in Sotogrande. This was designed in 2004 by Cabell Robinson, a former student of Trent Jones, who is responsible for many other excellent courses.
Other interesting golf courses in Costa del Sol include Atalaya, El Paraiso, Estepona and Torrequebrada. Mijas Golf has two excellent courses called the Lakes and the Olives, with great value for money. Another superb course is La Quinta which is situated close to the Puerto Banus marina in Marbella. Las Brisas and Aloha are two other golf courses in Costa del Sol that are worth mentioning. Although their green fees are a bit pricey, this reflects the excellent quality and conditions on offer. La Cala golf course has modest green fees with enjoyable courses.
Costa del Sol is the perfect golf destination for those looking for quality, quantity and great variety. There is something to suit all proficiency levels, tastes and budgets.