For most golf travelers, Spain is a destination that’s considered after they’ve “been there, done that” in Scotland and Ireland. In recent years, however, golf trips to Spain have grown in popularity for reasons that have very little to do with golf. The Mediterranean climate of the Costa del Sol is arguably the biggest selling point, allowing golfers to escape the sometimes frosty temperatures back home in the fall or spring. In addition, the Good Life in Spain is exceptional, thanks to a vibrant mix of food, wine, and cultural highlights.
But what about the golf?
The golf courses in Spain usually aren’t household names for most American golfers, with one possible exception. But for those who have traversed the links courses of the British Isles, Spain offers a nice change of pace. The Costa del Sol usually lives up to its name, allowing you to enjoy the sublime setting while leaving the rainsuit behind. Along the way, you’ll also find some of the best conditioned courses in all of Europe.
Here are some of the must-play courses for your golf trip to Spain and the Costa del Sol.
Valderrama
If golf on the Costa del Sol has a crown jewel, it is most certainly Valderrama. As such, it’s only fitting that Valderrama is one of 23 golf clubs in Spain granted “Royal” status. But the title on the sign out front isn’t why any mention of Spanish golf courses immediately brings Valderrama to mind for most Americans. We owe that, of course, to the 1997 Ryder Cup, where the American side lost by just a single point, and a jubilant Seve Ballesteros led a celebration for the ages.
As for the course itself, Valderrama meanders through an ancient cork forest and is conditioned to a degree that has led many to call it the “Augusta of Europe.” Whether the title is warranted or not is something you’ll just have to decide for yourself. Valderrama’s place on the Golf Digest World Top 100 list certainly adds some credibility to the claim.
Credit: Valderrama Golf Club
Finca Cortesin
Although it lacks decades of history, Finca Cortesin has made its mark on golf in Spain. The course has hosted the European Tour’s match-play event on three occasions, and is on tap to host the 2023 Solheim Cup. Like Valderrama, the conditioning of the course is nothing short of spectacular, say nothing of the inspired setting. For most golf travelers, however, it’s the amenities off the course at Finca Cortesin that often make it the highlight of their trip. The hotel is a mainstay of the Conde Nast Gold List and the spa is, by itself, worth a journey across the Atlantic.
Credit: Finca Cortesin Golf Club
La Reserva
La Reserva joined the great golf courses in Sotogrande in 2003 and was built with championship aspirations. A goal which has come to fruition thanks to recent stops here by both the European Tour and the Ladies European Tour. And while this typically means a course that’s long and difficult for the average golfer, La Reserva is forgiving in all the right places. The fairways are wide, the greens are large, and the plentiful water is usually only in play for shots that were rightfully deserving of punishment. All of which combines to give the traveling golfer a stern, but memorable experience.
Credit: La Reserva Sotogrande Golf Club
San Roque
Although it may occupy just one place here, there’s actually two reasons to add San Roque to your Spanish golf trip. The Old Course debuted in 1991 and, like Valderrama, winds its way through an ancient cork forest. Years later, Perry Dye and Seve Ballesteros were commissioned to design the New Course and, in the opinion of many, managed to outshine the original. It was recently announced that the Old Course will undergo a complete restoration, which may see that status flip once again. But regardless of which course the pundits prefer most, both belong on your itinerary.
Credit: San Roque Golf Club
Real Sotogrande
The grand dame of Costa del Sol golf courses, Real Sotogrande debuted in 1964 and was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Just two years later, the course was tapped to host its first Spanish Open, won by Roberto de Vicenzo. Recently, the course underwent an extensive renovation, which introduced massive amounts of sand under the fairways to produce hard and fast conditions. The greens were also equipped with sub-air systems to ensure immaculate putting conditions in all seasons. When the day is done at Real Sotogrande, be sure to allow extra time for a post-round beverage in its unique clubhouse.
Although the Costa del Sol of Spain is unlikely to be the choice for your first golf trip across the pond, it’s deserving of a place on your golf travel wishlist. The exceptional array of Golf and the Good Life, combined with abundant sunshine, is certain to deliver an unforgettable experience.
For more insight on planning your golf trip to Spain, visit the pages below, read our golf trip reviews, or have a look through our Yardage Book, where you’ll find answers to many of our most frequently asked questions.
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