Number 4 – Real Club de Golf Sotogrande
Golf Sotogrande, at the western end of the Costa del Sol in Spain, within sight of Gibraltar, was the first course in Europe designed by Robert Trent Jones. One of the most celebrated course architects of his time. Some of his most celebrated work includes Hazeltine, Spyglass Hill and Congressional Golf Club.
This par 72 measures 7,100 yards from the back tees. Its location is a stone’s throw from the Mediterranean Sea. The course has long tee-boxes with wide-open fairways leading it to guarded elevated greens. Numerous tee boxes to choose from this classic golf course is suitable for golfers of all abilities. The quality of former champions mirrors the quality of the course. Champions include Seve Ballesteros, Jose María Olazabal, Roberto de Vicenzo, Sergio García, Padraig Harrington and Rory McIlroy to name a few.
Robert Trent Jones designs tempt you to take on shots that perhaps you should not attempt. Intelligent course design with stunning views. All of his courses create an unforgettable experience with a mix of challenging holes and are a credit to Spanish Golf.
Where to Stay: Hotel Enciar de Sotogrande
Number 3 – Las Colinas Golf & Country Club
Situated in San Miguel de Salinas, Alicante, Spain, Las Colinas golf course, designed by renowned North American landscape architect Cabell B. Robinson. Designer of internationally recognised golf courses such as La Reserva in Sotogrande. A great mix of challenging holes not only to Spain golfers but all newcomers. You will need to ensure you hit a long, accurate tee-shot at the start of one hole; followed by a shorter, lay-up shot on the next hole. You’ll have to think all the time when playing Las Colinas and planning your shots carefully. Some par-4 and par-5 holes will allow you to unwind with the driver whereas others will see you opting for a shorter club and a more precise shot. Despite providing golfers with a good test, the course is fair and low scores are achievable. The new facility “Las Colinas Short Game Facility” has been designed by Miguel Ángel Jiménez and is one of the best in continental Europe. Las Colinas is a real championship course worthy of hosting European Tour events and a truly excellent base for a Costa Blanca Golf Holiday.
Where to Stay: Las Colinas Golf & Country Club
Number 2, PGA Catalunya Stadium Course
The Stadium Course at PGA Catalunya could be the number one position for the best golf courses in Spain. The Stadium Course is one of the best golf courses we have played worldwide. Located in Girona on the Costa Brava and nestling at the base of the Pyrenees. Golfers can experience two fantastic course choices at this world-class resort.
The Tour course and the Stadium course. The golf facilities are faultless at PGA Catalunya. It is rare to find so many memorable holes on one-course the pick of the bunch would be the 6th Hole. A very challenging and spectacular hole, with a dogleg, left tight tee shot and a green surrounded by five bunkers. The course has been designed with the European Tour and Ryder Cup in mind. Each hole is a combination of clever, rewarding and beautifully manicured.
Where to Stay: Hotel Camiral PGA Catalunya
Number 1 – Real Club Valderrama
Located in San Roque, Sotogrande, Valderrama is a bucket-list golf course and our number 1 golf course in Spain. It has always been in the top 10 courses in continental Europe. However, once you experience this iconic course, you understand how great this golf course is. Tee-time availability is limited with only a handful of tee-times given to non-members. For any golf enthusiast, this course is a must-play bucket list course.
Who can forget monumental moments from the 1997 Ryder Cup? The first Ryder Cup to be played in continental Europe. Seve Ballesteros lead the Europeans to a tight victory despite a massive 5 point lead. Recreate shots like Graeme McDowell’s astonishing albatross on the 17th in the 2007 Andalusian Masters.
The 4th hole (La Cascada) is a favourite, a fantastic par 5 that requires precision play. Valderrama is always in the top 5 bucket list golf courses to play alongside St. Andrews Old Course and Pebble Beach.
We play a lot of golf in the Marbella region of the Costa del Sol, of all the courses available, Valderrama will always be the best.
Where to Stay: Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa
