Top Class Golf in La Costa del Sol

With more than 60 golf courses to choose from for all levels of ability and the highest number of sunshine days per annum in Europe, the Costa del Sol, recently known as the Costa del Golf, is an absolute paradise for golfers of all standards. In addition, new golf courses and academies are being opened up on a regular basis which is why so many golfers return here every year as there are always new and exciting challenges.

Activity is mostly centred in the Golf Valley of Marbella and Mijas with a scattering of courses near Malaga and clusters in Estepona and Sotogrande. Here a few of the many Costa del Sol golf courses.

Around Marbella and Mijas

La Dama de Noche is located in Marbella and close to the glamorous marina of Puerto Banus. This golf course is a 9 hole, par 70 golf course and can be played as a 18 holes. It is flat, wide and easy. It is ideal course for a high handicapper or anyone wanting a gentle stroll. It is fully illuminated at night, the first of its kind in Europe.

Guadalmina is a short drive west of Marbella in San Pedro de Alcantara. There are two courses, Norte and Sur. Joining requires nomination by two members.

La Quinta Golf and Country Club is home to the former World Champion Manuel Piñero´s Golf School. It is a technical course that reflects the designer; Manuel Piñero´s own playing characteristics in that it rewards accuracy rather than long hitting.

Alhaurin Golf is a little inland from de Costa del Sol but is well worth the trip as the scenery is stunning and the course superb. It is a unique club in that it has three golf courses. Situated between Mijas and Coín in the Sierra de Mijas, this course has majestic views of mountains to the north and Africa and the Mediterranean to the south.

Around Malaga

The Parador Malaga Golf is the oldest course on the coast, founded in 1925 by the Spanish royal family. Covering both links and parklands, it´s a challenging championship venue.

Equally demanding is El Candado which host the Iberian Cup and other tournaments. The uneven terrain and greens are testing but there may be some light relief provided by the parakeets gathering in the trees.

Guadalhorce holds numerous championships while golf aside, Lauro is popular for its scenic views and Club House set in an old Andalusian farm.

Baviera is a 18-hole par 71course. it is located in the foothills of the Sierra de la Almijara, in the east of Malaga. A variety of clubs and stroke play will be necessary for this course, since it has a large number of obstacles and wide greens. It is suitable for all levels of player.

Around Estepona and Sotogrande

Alcaidesa golf course is a 18 hole, par 71 course designed by Peter Allis and Clive Clark is the course that is located farthest to the west in Costa del Sol and boast s stunning views of the Gibraltar and the Atlas Mountains. Skirting the coastline, links style, featuring 4 beachside holes, Alcaidesa calls for straight shots, as well as skill in negotiating the windy conditions often prevalent in this locale. It is beautiful and tricky golf course for every standard of golfer from 28 handicap to scratch.

Valderrama, home to the Volvo Masters (1988-96), the Ryder Cup (1997) and the World Golf Championship (1999-2000), Valderrama is widely considered continental Europe´s finest as it has twice received the accolade of “Best Golf Club in Europe.”

Flamingos Golf Course is a 18-hole, par 72 course. A relatively new course but the work that has gone into the course makes that incredible, it looks like its been established for years. Clearly no expense has been spared when they built this course. Everything from the hotel toilets to the course itself is magnificent, lavish and downright opulent. A visit to Flamingos really is a treat.

Atalaya golf comprises two well-mantained , 18-hole, par 72 courses. It is quite a popular golf and country club with wonderful facilities. It was established in 1968 and is currently the headquarters of the European PGA. Found within Marbella and Estepona, the course has one of Spain´s biggest driving ranges, and provides teaching in lots of languages.