GOLF COURSES ON THE COAST OF SOUTHERN SPAIN
Coastal Southern Spain provides golf courses suitable for golfers of all
abilities, from the scratch player to the beginner. With incredible
landscapes, outstanding views of the Atlantic and Mediterranean and
year-round sunshine, the region provides for marvellous golfing
experiences.
Valderrama, Cadiz
The venue for the 1997 Ryder Cup, along with several other professional
tournaments, Valderrama, designed by Robert Trent Jones, provides one of
Europe`s toughest golfing challenges. The par-71 Championship Course, at
nearly 7,000 yards from the back tees is recommended for seasoned (and
talented!) campaigners only, with thought and precision required for
every shot. The 4th hole, "La Cascada," is the course`s signature hole,
one of the finest par-5s in the world. The two-tiered green is guarded
by a large tree on the left and a lake, complete with waterfall, on its
right. With no hole less than championship standard and always in superb
condition, a visit to Valderrama is a unique golfing experience.
La Quinta Golf and Country Club, Marbella
The La Quinta Club is situated in Marbella`s golf valley with excellent
views down to the Mediterranean and is accessible from Puerto Banus or
the San Pedro road. Its 27 holes, in three 9-hole loops, provide three
par-72 courses of just over 6000 yards in length. Designed by Manuel
Pinero, the course(s) reflect his own play, rewarding accuracy over long
hitting. However, La Quinta remains very challenging from its elevated
tees, with trees, sand and water needing to be negotiated en route to
many raised greens.
Baviera Golf Course, Malaga
Baviera, situated to the east of Malaga, is also popular with both the
local and expatriot communities. Designed by professional Jose Maria
Canizares, Baviera is a flat, easily walked course, ideal for players of
all abilities. It measures 5572 yards from the yellow boxes, with a par
of 71. The course is characterised by its wide, heavily-contoured
greens. The variety of holes and the unsurpassable views of both the
Mediterranean Sea and mountains contribute to an enjoyable
experience.
Rio Real Golf Course, Marbella
The Rio Real golf course is situated some 2 miles east of Marbella. It
is 6706 yards in length (from the back tees) with a par of 72. Designed
by Spain`s top architect Javier Arana, the course opened in 1965.
Essentially a flat course, it follows a gradual incline towards the sea.
Wonderful views, well-established trees providing welcome shade, with
the Real River (from which it takes its name) intersecting the course at
several points, make playing at Rio Real a pleasurable experience.
There are many social aspects and benefits to playing golf and joining a
golf club. As with any form of social club, a golf club provides the
opportunity to meet new, interesting people and make social connections.
With the average round of golf taking in excess of 4 hours, the golf
course itself is a means of getting to know people better. Golf is also
a great game to play with family members. Teaching the game to children
greatly enhances family communication. Regardless of with whom you play,
golf provides a great arena for social interaction.
Most golf clubs and courses on the South Spanish coast have their own
Internet websites. These are well worth investigating in order to obtain
the
best golf
prices with regard to green fees and / or membership.