Although the British Isles will occupy many of the traveling golfer’s daydreams – and rightfully so – there is another destination across the pond that’s worthy of a slot on the proverbial bucket-list. Spain, specifically the Costa del Sol, offers an outstanding concentration of Golf and the Good Life, as well as an abundance of its #1 commodity.. Sunshine. If the Costa del Sol isn’t already on your list, here’s a few compelling reasons to put it there.
Finca Cortesin
Situated along the Costa del Sol between Sotogrande and Marbella, the Finca Cortesin is quite possibly the finest combination of Golf and the Good Life in all of Spain. The hotel is exceptional; the award-winning spa, equally so. As for the golf, the European Tour found it to be a suitable venue for the Volvo Match-Play for a number of years. Add it all up, and it’s little wonder why Conde Nast Traveler has ranked it as Spain’s best resort.
Rock of Gibraltar
Although technically part of a British territory for the last 300 years, the Rock of Gibraltar is one of the most visited attractions of the area, not to mention the most recognizable. Whether you’re saying hello to the Barbary macaque monkeys or enjoying the view from Europe’s version of the “Top of the Rock,” a trip to Gibraltar is a fine pairing with a morning tee time.
Steve Demmer and the members of Kittansett Club enjoy The Rock.
Valderrama
Of the golf offerings on the Costa del Sol, Valderrama is the most widely known thanks to its turn in the Ryder Cup spotlight. The course was the first in continental Europe to host the matches, and few can forget the passion showed by the late Seve Ballesteros in his role as captain. As for the course itself, it is far from a leisurely walk in the park, but is almost always found in pristine condition. Just one of a few reasons why some label it the “Augusta of Europe.”
The PGA Professionals of the H&B Iberian Review at Valderrama.
Malaga
Those looking to add a day-off of golf to the middle of their itinerary may find a visit to Malaga an interesting alternative. From the imposing Baroque Cathedral to the Picasso Museum and Roman amphitheater, the city of Malaga is the very definition of old-world charm. Add in the new-world refinements of Michelin starred restaurants and trendy tapas bars, and you might call it the best of both worlds.
VeinTeeOcho
The cleverly named VeinTeeOcho at Almenara Golf Club has been one of Sam Baker’s favorite 19th holes for quite some time. Why is it cleverly named, you ask? Well.. Since Almenara is home to 27 holes, only a 28th hole would do; the proper spelling of which is “veintiocho.” But it’s not the name that draws anyone here.. It’s the spectacular view from the terrace, from which the lights of Morocco are visible on a clear evening.
La Reserva
La Reserva is the newest addition to this corner of the Costa del Sol, joining famed Valderrama, the original Sotogrande, and San Roque to form a brilliant trio of golf. The course went to almost unheard of lengths to preserve the natural environment found at La Reserva, transporting all of the trees of ecological or aesthetic importance to a nearby nursery during construction, and returning them to their original location upon completion. With such an investment of time and capital placed on a few trees, one can only imagine what devotion they poured into the golf course.
Onward
Although there is enough Golf and the Good Life to easily fill a week, one great thing about the Costa del Sol is its proximity to a few world-class cities. For those looking to extend their trip, Madrid, Lisbon, and Barcelona are all within easy reach, and are a perfect pairing with Spain’s premier golfing destination.
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