Golf in the Costa del Sol: Course Showcase

When it comes to prime golfing destinations few regions can rival the quality and choice on offer in the Costa del Sol. Affectionately nicknamed 'Costa del Golf' by golfing enthusiasts all over the world, this part of southern Spain has also become an incredible international sporting venue.

Quality and abundance of courses

With more than 70 different, varied and challenging facilities in a few square kilometres, the Costa del Sol is the perfect destination for playing this sport.

The region regularly features as golfing destination of choice for golf lovers everywhere not only for the fact that it has the highest concentration of high-quality golf courses in Europe but also for the wide variety of golfing events on offer.

Every individual course on the 'Costa del Golf' has its own unique charm as well as an unwavering guarantee of quality service and impressive facilities at all levels.

Perhaps one of the most famous and revered golf courses in the area is Valderrama. This course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, has been named as the best in Europe on a number of occasions and was the first course outside of the United Kingdom to host the legendary Ryder Cup.

It is, however, not the only golf course in the Costa del Sol with such an international reputation. Here's a closer look at five golf courses which stand as 'jewels in the crown' of golf on the Costa del Sol.

Finca Cortesín

Ranking as Europe's best golf resort for the second consecutive year - as voted for by users of the 'Leadingcourses.com' website - Finca Cortesin is undoubtedly a must play golf course on the Costa del Sol.

The 18 holes play as individually unique experiences along impressively designed fairways with beautifully shaped bunkers each filled with stunning white silica sand.

Marbella Golf & Country Club

Marbella Golf & Country Club - a Robert Trent Jones Sr designed golf course - is just five minutes drive from the centre of Marbella and extends along one of the greenest areas of the Costa del Sol.

It's an imaginatively conceived facility and makes the most of the natural terrain and a stunning Mediterranean backdrop.

Antequera Golf

Set in the very heart of Andalusia, Antequera Golf is one of the most popular golf courses on the Costa del Sol.

The stunning quality of both the facilities and the golf course itself are almost beyond compare in the region, with the 18 holes providing a thorough examination of any golfer's game.

Santa Clara Golf Club Marbella

Santa Clara Golf Club Marbella is a parkland style golf course and is located only a five-minute journey from central Marbella and is blessed with many awesome Mediterranean views.

As a facility that caters to all golfing abilities, Santa Clara Golf Club is genuinely one of the best golf courses not only on the Costa del Sol but in all of Spain.

Valle Romano Golf

Valle Romano is centrally located in Costa del Sol and the magnificent golf course plays host to many renowned tournaments throughout the year. Coming highly recommended by the late, great Seve Ballesteros, its high-quality status is undeniable.

More than just golf....

Virtually all courses on the 'Costa del Golf' offer a fine clubhouse where players and friends can enjoy superb dining experiences and stunning views; the perfect place to unwind and relive the highs and lows of the earlier round of golf.

For those looking to delve a little deeper into all that the Costa del Sol has to offer, it's unlikely you will be left wanting more. The fine mix of sun, sea and sand is a real treat, while many beautiful seafront promenades allow for pleasant walks to nearby coastal towns and villages.

Visitors can experience the local cuisine, based on a Mediterranean diet, or sample the best international dishes on offer at many of the restaurants and bars in their locality. And all this before you head out for a night on said seafront promenades to experience the vibrant nightlife at many of the bars and nightclubs in the area.

Without a doubt, the Costa del Sol has earned its reputation as an outstanding golfing destination and its nickname - 'Costa del Golf'.