The Costa del Sol without doubt is a golfers’ paradise, hence the adopted name for the coast, “The Costa del Golf.” With more than 60 courses between Sotogrande and Málaga, it has become one of the biggest areas for golf in the last decade. In fact, with so many golf courses located in one region, the area accounts for the largest concentration of golf courses in the world! In the surrounding area of Marbella alone there are 20 courses so it’s not surprising the coast is the European Golf Capital.
There is a wide variety of course styles ranging from traditional, such as Mijas Golf, to the more dramatically, hilly, courses of La Cala and Alhaurin. There are courses aimed at the novice player to the professional and many are located next to the sea with superb Mediterranean views or inland with a back drop of spectacular, scenic, Andalucian mountains.
With such high-class facilities comprising of driving ranges, pro-shops, Golf & Country clubs with Spas and wellness centres, golf academies and much more, its no wonder that golfers flock to the Costa del Sol every year, either as their favourite holiday destination or simply taking up permanent residence.
The demand to play is such that it is necessary with most clubs to reserve tee times in advance to avoid disappointment and its due to this demand that there are many new courses being opened or currently under construction. It is particularly important during the high seasons of mid February to the end of April and October to December to make a reservation. During the hotter months quieter courses can be found but be sure to take a buggy and plenty of water as the weather can be very hot. For those who are used to playing golf in the cold and wet climates of northern Europe, the winter on the Costa del Sol can be a real treat, not to mention that there is always the chance of bumping into famous golf celebrities such as Robert Trent Jones, Sergio Garcia, or Miguel Angel Jiminez and Steve Ballesteros, all of whom can be found quite regularly at the golf clubs or dining in the fine restaurants, which are able to satisfy the most discerning of clients.
