Golf Breaks in Costa de la Luz

Located along the western section of the Andalucian coast in Spain, the Costa de la Luz is perhaps less developed than many of its ‘rivals’ along the southern coast of the country. There are many unspoilt beaches and crystal clear blue water to tempt visitors. The temperatures here are slightly milder than further along the coast and this can make it perfect destination for a golf break, even during the middle of summer.

One of the best courses in the region has to be the Islantilla Resort. Having featured in Golf Digest’s top 100 courses in Europe list back in 2000, this course is a regular fixture on the European Challenge Tour and has also hosted the Turespana Masters. Therefore, you can be assured of a good round of golf at Islantilla. There are three different 9 hole loops to choose from, meaning you can really mix things up if you choose to do so. Each loop offers lovely views of the coast and provides a bit of variety to your round.

El Rompido Resort

Roughly an hour from both Seville and Faro airports is El Rompido Resort, which boasts two excellent courses designed by Alvaro Arana. The North Course plays at 6,650 yards and requires accurate ball striking, from both the tee and the fairway. Having been opened in 2006, the North Course is a modern set-up and will challenge your technique. The South Course opened in 2003, is also one for those who want to test their ball striking accuracy, rather than power. With pine trees, orange groves, protected marshland and tremendous views, El Rompido Resort makes a great destination for a golfing break.

If you like to play your golf on the same courses as the professionals, then Barcelo Montecastillo Resort is the place for you. The 18 hole course on this resort, designed by Jack Nicklaus, has played host to the Volvo Masters five times, from 1997 through to 2001. If that’s not enough to tempt you, then its location just 15 minutes from Jerez airport and the fact that Nicklaus has stated it’s one of his best, should be enough. Don’t expect to have things easy, however, as Barcelo Montecastillo will provide a challenge to the most competent of players.

Sherry Golf Jerez

If you are considering flying into Jerez airport, then Sherry Golf Jerez could be the ideal option. Located just 20 minutes drive from the airport, Sherry Golf Jerez is an 18 hole, par 72, Parkland layout, with wide fairways and large greens. The course is relatively flat, especially in comparison to others in the area and allows you to get your driver out of your bag on more than one occasion. However, watch out for the lakes, which really come into play on the back nine holes.

La Estancia

Finally and a little further away from Jerez airport (about 30 minutes drive), near Cadiz, we have La Estancia course. This is a par 72, link style course designed by Alan Rijks. Featuring a number of elevated greens, streams and two lakes. Many of the greens are large and undulating, meaning that pin positions can be changed regularly. The course also has a good driving range and a modern clubhouse, which has been inspired by Andalucian architecture.

The Costa de la Luz is fast becoming a haven for golfers, of all abilities and with access to the area being very straight-forward, is well worth a visit.