HolidayVillaDirect.com - Guide to Golf on the Costa del sol, Andalucia.

Golf Courses abound in Andalucia and on the Costa del Sol, Spain, which is renowned for the variety and quality of its golf courses. The fantastic all year round climate, large variety and choice of courses ranging from the World famous challenge of Valderama to the more tame courses such as Mijas make this Costa such a perfect destination for golfing holiday.

There are courses to suit all standards of golf in Andalucia. Such is the quality and variety of golf on the Costa del Sol that it has become known as The Costa del Golf.

Golf course villas & apartments for golfing holidays in the Costa del Sol

Golf course Guide - Costa del sol, Spain.

Major Courses on the Costa del Sol

Golf courses on the Costa del sol, are generally of better quality than in the UK, hence you will pay slightly more than on your average local golf course. You get what you pay for with course quality but there is no extra charge for fantastic golfing climate!

Golf courses in Spain are usually difficult to find, are always poorly sign posted (if at all) and the names of the clubs can be deceptive e.g. Mijas Golf Club is nowhere near Mijas town.

Therefore we recommend that you always get detailed directions to the club, carry a map and always allow plenty of time to get to the golf course. If you do that you won't get lost and end up missing that all important tee time. Experience has taught us to try to visit the club the day before we are due to play so that we know learn the route beforehand and know how long to allow for traveling time.

Golf courses in Spain insist on soft spiked golf shoes.

Golf course in Spain generally say that you must produce a handicap certificate before you can play.

Dress codes on Spanish golf courses is generally the same as UK golf clubs.

Golf courses on the costa del sol generally 'pair you up' if you visit a course alone and they will make pairs into four balls when they are busy, so you won't be lonely!

Most golf courses on the costa del sol are quite formal. Expect starters on the first tee and marshals around the course.

A normal round of golf in Spain takes up to five hours but it should be warm and sunny so why rush? You are on holiday, relax and accept the slower pace of life in Spain.

A lot of golf courses in Andalucia insist on you renting a golf buggy from them, this is to keep up the pace of play.

Many golf courses in Spain have introduced a local rule to keep up the pace of play. The rule is generally along the lines that if you loose a ball out of bounds off the tee then you do not have to play a second ball off the tee, you can walk to where the first ball went out of bounds and play from there under penalty of one shot. You are still playing your third shot but you have not lost distance. Check the local rules before you tee off, this could save you some shots!

Golf courses in Spain are naturally sunny, warm places to be. As a result they require lots of regular irrigation. You will see that the courses tend to have manicured fairways and that they are very well maintained. The area's off the fairways are not irrigated and if you do not keep your shots straight and on the fairways you may find that your golf ball will hit rock or arid land, bounce in the air and never be seen again. Always carry plenty of spare golf balls, its far less pressure to tee off on the 18th with three spare golf balls in your bag than none. More experienced visitors tend to stick to shorter, straighter clubs, it saves a fortune in golf balls and makes for a much more enjoyable round of golf.

As you approach golf courses on the Costa del sol you will often see people sat in cars at the roadside . They have 'pre-used' golf balls on display on the car bonnet. They tend to be selling balls at very competitive prices and if you don't stay on the fairways you may well end up a regular customer of these suppliers. Most will negotiate a little on the price and we tend to find they are more open to negotiation if you buy in bulk, buy later in the day or as you are driving away from the course rather than on your way in (stock up in advance for the next round!)

Most golf courses on the courses on the costa del sol, Spain have excellent clubhouses. Why not allow that extra hour after your round and partake of a meal or a drink. Food is generally of very good quality, the prices are normally very reasonable and the surroundings normally very scenic. Relax you are on holiday!

Golf course fees on the Costa del sol naturally vary golf course by golf course and day by day so it is impractical to give an up to date definitive price guide. That said the vast majority of courses have seasonal price variations. Again each course varies the dates it chooses to be high or low season. As a rough guide high season tends to be from September to May. Low season prices tend to run through summer from May to September.

Golf course Guide - Costa del sol, Spain.

The following list is a 'rough guide' and is purely the personal opinion of the author. Please take in to consideration that these comments are subjective, personal opinions and standards of golf differ. Please take this rough guide as exactly that.

Alcaidesa Links Golf  Course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Alcaidesa golf course is a 18 hole, par 70 golf course.
Address: Ctra de Cadiz (N340), Km 124.6, La Linea, Cadiz. Tel: +34 956 791 040.

This is a beautiful and tricky golf course for every standard of golfer from 28 handicap to scratch. Allis and Clark have made and admirable attempt to create a rare links course on the Costa. Stunning views across the bay to Gibraltar and hilly terrain make it a delight to play. Take plenty of balls, as the fairways are tight and unforgiving surrounded by gorse and ravines. A buggy is needed - even for the fittest amongst us- and take an extra club up on par threes because of deceptive wind.

Alhaurin Golf  course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Alhaurin golf course is a 18+18+9, par 72 golf course which was designed by Severiano Ballesteros.
Address: Ctra Mijas-Alhaurin, (MA485) Km6, Alhaurin el Grande. Tel: +34 95 259 5970.

Tight beyond belief, difficult beyond anything I have every seen before.

The first hole is extremely difficult with a narrow fairway and rocks to the sides of the fairway, which send your ball bouncing high in to the sky, never to be seen again. As you progress the course gets tougher and if you are not really on top of your game you could easily become more and more disheartened as you progress around the course. I stopped counting shots after I lost my tenth golf ball!

By the 18th I had suffered several episodes of golf rage and was close to a nervous breakdown. The course guides say that this course 'compels golfers to concentrate on their game and choose with care which club they should use for every stroke.'

Personally I would say this course is one of the toughest golf course on the Costa del Sol. This course is at best described as a challenge for an experienced player who is on top form, at worst its tight and downright cruel.

Alhaurin golf course is generally cheaper to play than most other local golf courses.

A buggy is essential as is an ample supply of golf balls.

Cabopino Golf, Costa del, Sol, Spain.

Cabopino golf course is a 18 hole par 71 golf course.

It's a relatively new course but it has matured very quickly and is very well maintained. The marshall's are friendly and very welcoming.

There is a driving range on the approach road to the course, so if you arrive early you can loosen up your swing. Alternatively you could take the approach Andy and I prefer, loosen up with a San Miguel at the bar before you tee off.

Cabopino golf has a pleasant clubhouse, with a pleasant sun terrace where you can sit, eat, drink and enjoy the views of the ocean. The staff in the bar and restaurant are friendly staff and they serve good quality food.

The short at only course is only 5,170 meters long but it's has tight fairways and is challenging.

The greens are large and were of fantastic quality when we last visited. The third hole is the one most people enjoy the most and it's not one you will forget, it's a par 4 which drops dramatically from the tee to the green and has outstanding views. A buggy is advisable on this course, which is hilly.

If you wish to play this course and want a quality property to rent around the corner we highly recommend visiting Casa Cherie (click here to view property.)

This property is competitively priced, offers four single beds so it's ideal for a golfing party and it even has golf club storage area.

Dama de Noche golf Course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Dama de Noche golf course is a 9 hole, Par 70 golf course.
Centro Commercial Plaza, Oficinas 51-52, 29660, Nueva Andalucia, Marbella

Dama de Noche golf course is a nine-hole course, which can be played as 18 holes. It is flat, wide and easy. It is ideal course for a high handicapper or anyone wanting a gentle stroll.

All that changes a night though because the is course is flood lit and can be played at night.

They say that the lighting system is designed to cast no shadows thus giving daylight quality and maximum visibility, does that apply in the rough as well I ask myself?

You do have to make a reservation for night golf because they only put the lights on if there is sufficient demand but for total golfing addicts or insomniac this course offers considerable novelty value and it's one to talk about in the clubhouse when you go home.

Lauro Golf Course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Lauro golf course is an 18 hole par 72 golf course.
Address:Ctra de Coin,(C344) Km 77, Los Caraclilos, Alhaurin de la Torre. Tel: +34 952 4127 67.

Beautiful parkland course surrounded by lots of Andalucian trees. It offers breathtaking views over the valley and Malaga bay. Nine lakes so there is something to think about but it is a relatively easy and relaxing course.

La Cala Golf, Costa del sol, Spain.

La Cala has three golf courses, each of 18 holes, par's 72,73 and 71.
Address: La Cala de Mijas, Mijas Costa. Tel: +34 95 266 9000.

A personal favourite, all three courses are equally good. I highly recommend La Cala golf, not only because of the quality of the golf but also because of the quality of the clubhouse, facilities, surroundings and the reasonable pricing.

At La Cala golf there are three spectacular 18 hole courses, which are nestled in the countryside about 15-20 minutes drive in land from La Cala town.

La Cala golf is an enormous luxury golfing resort, which is perfect for golfers who want quality golf at a sensible price in an exclusive environment.

Set out like a Country Club in extremely large grounds it has an exclusive clubhouse and restaurant. It also has a separate five star hotel, where you will find an very exclusive restaurant.

All three courses have terrific obstacles & natural water hazards along with narrow fairways and large well-kept greens. Set amongst tranquil mountains, all three courses are long and sculptured into the natural contours of the countryside which means that you have think your way around La Cala golf and use the contours of the landscape to your advantage.

All three courses hilly and a buggy is a must. The South is my favourite, it's a little more forgiving than the North Course and the Europa.

Try the Leadbetter Golf Academy located at La Cala Golf, it's a little expensive and you will have to book in advance but the instructor's improved my game, so they must be good!

At the academy they also have an excellent grass driving range.

Mijas Golf, Costa del sol, Spain.

Mijas golf has two 18 hole golf courses, par 71 & 72.

Address: Urb. Mijas Golf, Mijas-Costa. Tel: +34 95 247 6843

Two relaxing 18 hole courses both having flat and wide fairways. Both courses are generous and forgiving leaving the option of a safe shot down the middle for a bogie or a par, alternatively you can take the driver out and go for the birdie.

Good scores are achievable on either of the courses, which are set both in an attractive and tranquil landscape. If you hire a buggy they have satellite / GPS tracking and mapping which gives you distances from where you park the buggy to the green and to hazards. Watch out though, don't make the same mistake I made, the distances are in meters not yards, don't forget to add 10% to get yardages!

All level of golfers will find that both courses at Mijas golf are a fair and enjoyable test of golf. Being one of the better-known clubs Mijas can get busy. A four and a half hour round is not unusual because it is so popular but the surroundings are so pleasant you hardly notice. I recommend both of the Mijas courses, play them and you will see why.

MiraFlores Golf course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Miraflores golf course is an 18 hole, par 72 golf course.

Address: Urb. Riviera del Sol, 29647 Mijas-Costa. Tel : (952) 83 36 47.

This used to be a favourite and regular golf course for me, sadly there has been extensive building work all around the course edge of Miraflores golf course and it appears never ending. Sadly this has, in my opinion, taken the edge off the natural beauty and spoilt the course somewhat. While prices have been reduced in an apparent attempt to tempt golfers back to the course I have to ask myself if I want to go all the way to Spain to play golf in the middle of a building site.

It is one of the more forgiving courses on the Costa and a buggy is not essential.

If you do try Miraflores golf course loosen up in advance of the first tee, the first hole is a tight and requires a straight shot or you could end up in the garden of one of the many villa's next to the fairway.

Monte Mayor Golf Course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Monte Mayor

Address: Ctra de Cadiz (N340), Km 165.6, La Cancelada, San Pedro. Tel: +34 95 211 3088.

A challenging course but in my opinion this is the best golf course on the Costa del sol, if your game is on form . It is extremely tight, very hilly and is carefully sculptured into the natural mountainous terrain. The natural views and beauty of this course are second to none.

Your golf needs to be accurate, sensible club selection and course management are a must. If you play sensibly and stay on the fairways you will be rewarded, if not make sure you have a good supply of golf balls.

If you play Monte Mayor golf course you are guaranteed a day to remember and you will want to go back as often as I do.

Most of the year golf buggies are included in the green fee's. If you visit in high season they may not be, in which case I strongly recommend that visit hire a buggy, you will need it.

This is a very isolated golf course, in a location where you have to ask 'Who thought of putting a golf course way up here?'  The isolation adds to attraction of this incredible golf course but it means that it is difficult to find, so I strongly recommend that you drive to it for a 'test run' the day before your golf.

It is set in spectacular mountainous terrain where you will find peace and tranquility combined with natural beauty and unforgettable golf. A challenge but a fantastic golf course in surroundings that are literally unsurpassable. To sum up, if your game is on form do not miss this golf course, its brilliant, if you are having a bit of a wayward time then give Monte Mayor a miss and try Miajs.

Rio Real golf course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Rio Real golf course is an 18 hole, par 72 golf course.
Urb Rio Real, P.O.BOX 82, 29600 Marbella, Malaga. Tel: +34 95 277 95 09.

A mature, tranquil course that gradually meanders way up into the hills and then it wanders all the way back down to the beach. At one stage you feel you are alone in the middle of the mountains, next you are on a green that is literally next to the beach.

The course generally has wide fairways and while you have to concentrate it does not punish you unfairly. Water come in to play on a few times but in all honesty if you play sensible golf it won't cost you any golf balls. Pleasant countryside and views in the hills and a fantastic vista as you play down to the edge of the Mediterranean Ocean. A relaxing day of golf, this course comes in my top three golf courses but it does tend to be pricey because of its popularity.

The club house has a magnificent balcony / terrace restaurant where you can sit, watch fellow golfers playing out the 18th and reminisce on your 'shot of the day.'

The down side of Rio real golf course is the cost. A round of golf here tends to be expensive and the golf buggies, which I would recommend hiring due to the hilly location, are an expensive addition to this already high cost.

San Roque Golf Course, Costa del sol, Spain.

San Roque golf course is an 18 hole, par 72 golf course, which was designed by Dave Thomas.
Address:Urb. San Roque Club,Ctra de Cadiz (N340), Km 127, San Roque.Tel: +34 956 61 30 30.

This course is ideal for both experts and those looking for a leisurely game. Superb practice facilities and wonderful manicured greens and idyllic fairways. A real treat.

Santa Maria Golf Course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Santa Maria golf course is an 18 hole, Par 72 golf course, which was designed by Antonio Garcia Garrido.
Address: Coto de Los Dolores, Urb. Elviria. Tel: +34 95 283 1036.

A pleasant and popular course, which is challenging. It has plenty of long holes where you can open up and swing the driver but every now and then they throw in a tight par three to bring you back down to earth. The course starts off with a hole over a lake where you can 'go for it' and get the driver out. There is ample fairway and a decent drive makes it a short par four. The course gradually winds its way into the hills and far, far away, we recommend a buggy.

The course is just off the main costal road, the N340.

Santa Maria golf course tends to be a little on the pricey side. I found the staff to be unhelpful and less friendly than most other golf courses in the area but if you let the golf course speak for itself you will enjoy a round here.

If you want a buggy or a Powakaddy we strongly recommend that buggy pre-book it, they have a limited supply and they soon get taken.

Sotogrande Golf Course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Sotogrande golf course is an 18 hole (Par 72) with an additional nine holes. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones.
Address: Paseo del Parque, Sotogrande, Cadiz. Tel +34 956 785 014

Another Robert Trent Jones success. He is reputed to have described sotogrande as one of his proudest pieces of work, that's a compliment from a golf course designer of such ability.

European Tour pros battle here at the end of the season to gain their cards for the forthcoming season so that's an indication of the quality of this golf course.

Torrequebrada Golf Course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Torrequebrada golf has an 18 hole, par 72 course and and addition nine holes, which were designed by Jose Gancedo.
Address: Ctra de Cadiz (N340), Km 220, Benalmadena-Costa. Tel: +34 95 244 2742.

Every hole is a different experience. Fantastic views of the Mediterranean and has the shortest par 3 on the coast. The 1979 Spanish Open was played here and you can see why after you turn for home on the back nine. A large number of lakes and strategically placed wide bunkers ensure that this course retains its reputation as one of the most popular courses on the Costa. Welcoming and luxurious clubhouse.

Valderrama golf Course, Costa del sol, Spain.

Valderama has 18 holes and is a tough par 72.

Valderama golf course is a world famous golf course and is ranked number one course in Continental Europe.

Valderama golf course is always in superb condition and enjoys worldwide fame, not least due to having had the privilege to have hosted the 1997 Ryder Cup and the last two American Express World Championships.

Extremely expensive but I am told that if you can play a round of golf here you are privileged!

There are new golf courses appearing all the time in Andalucia and the Costa del sol has understandably become known as the Costa del golf. As avid lovers of golf we are regularly visiting the area and we will try to play as many golf courses in Andalucia as we possibly can just so that we can keep this web page up to date (well that's the reason I give to my wife for playing so much golf anyway!)

If you are a golf course manager or owner and you disagree with our opinion feel free to contact us and we would be happy to accept your invitation to re-visit and re-appraise your course!

Likewise if you are an owner or manager of a course not included in our guide we would be happy to accept your invitation to visit and review your course, please email us.

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