5 top spots to play golf on the Costa Del Sol
Spain isn’t just for summer beach holidays and spring city breaks. If you’re a fan of golfing, head to the Costa del Sol (or Costa del Golf, as it’s affectionately known) where you can practice your swing year-round.
A popular tourist spot in the Andalucian region of Southern Spain, the area is well known for its blue-flag beaches, mild climate (it boasts more than 300 days of sunshine a year), excellent food, and relaxed atmosphere.
It’s also one of Europe’s top golfing destinations. With no less than 70 golf courses, academies, hotels, and resorts catering to all abilities, it’s a true golfer’s paradise.
Here are five of the best spots to tee up.
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Tip: If you fancy doing a tour of the top golf courses, you can earn 10% CashPoints when you hire a car with Avis.
1. Los Naranjos
What could be sweeter than a round of golf on a perfectly maintained course with stunning views of the Sierra Bermeja mountains? That’s what’s waiting for you at Los Naranjos Golf Club.
Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones, this 18-hole, par 72 championship course features generous fairways and strategically placed bunkers and water hazards.
The course is suitable for players of all abilities, including children. Hand them over to the instructors at the Los Naranjos kids club (ages 5 and above) and they’ll be entertained while you perfect your bogey.
2. Rio Real
Nestled in a beautiful valley, Rio Real is a treat. With plenty of tricky obstacles including tight tree-lined fairways and bunkers, this 18-hole par 71 parkland course provides an excellent test of golf, whatever your handicap.
With stunning views of the mountains and the Med on holes 4 and 5, what’s not to love?
Tip: After a morning of teeing off, why not treat yourself to a cruise along the Marbella coast? On this fabulous 3-hour Catamaran Tour, you’ll get to try some water sports, before relaxing with a drink and indulging in a spot of dolphin-watching.
3. La Dama de Noche
The first 24-hour golf course in Europe, La Dama de Noche (‘Lady of the Night’) is a must for insomniacs. The 9-hole, 72-par course has a floodlight system, enabling golfers to play after the sun goes down.
The course is close to the party town of Puerto Banus, so once you’ve had enough of the hustle and bustle, you can enjoy a peaceful round under the stars.
Tip: Wondering where to eat in Puerto Banus? Taberna Casa Blanca is a top spot to try some local tapas. Be sure to try the Serranito (grilled beef fillet, Iberian ham, fried pepper, and olives). It’s a taste sensation.
4. Villa Padierna Golf Club
Villa Padierna Golf Club is one of the most exclusive clubs in the region. It boasts three 18-hole courses (aimed at different abilities), a comprehensive driving range, and the prestigious Tramores Golf Academy (led by 2005 US Open Champion Michael Campbell).
If you’re brand new to the sport, the Academy offers an excellent beginners’ course, (consisting of 4 x 50-minute lessons with a PGA-certified pro). They also offer improver and advanced courses.
Need a place to stay? The luxurious Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavís Marbella Resort is a dream. With a Medical Wellness Spa, various restaurants, Beach Club and Racquet Club, it has everything you could want.
5. La Duquesa Golf & Country Club
Wrapped around El Hacho beacon hill overlooking the Mediterranean to Africa, La Duquesa Golf Club is located in a picturesque setting in Manilv.
Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones, the course offers 18 holes par 72. Packed with vegetation and large, rough greenside bunkers, it’s a demanding course. If you’re struggling, there’s a practice area with 20 tee positions so you can practice your swing.
Tip: If you’re serious about your golf and are on the market for a holiday home on the Costa Del Sol, check out Ambera Duquesa – a unique housing development near Marbella for over 55’s. In addition to stylish Scandinavian-style apartments, the on-site community centre offers a wide range of activities, from tennis and Spanish lessons to Salsa dancing. There’s also an on-site restaurant, co-working space, and a full-service concierge.
Ready to book your golfing adventure in the sun? Book your flight to Malaga, pack your clubs, and get swinging!
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