Golf Holidays in the Costa del Sol

The ‘Costa del Golf’ has maintained its endless popularity by catering to the needs of any group. Whether you are looking for a high-end luxury trip loaded with famous courses, a relaxing resort break where everything is on-site or an affordable weekend away with the lads, or lasses, that combines golf and partying, its all found on Andalucia’s Sunshine Coast.

With over 50 golf courses found in the Costa del Sol, you are spoilt for choice. These range from some of Europe’s best and toughest tests, to outstanding resort layouts or budget-friendly options that guarantee a fun-filled round.

No course on the Costa del Sol is more revered than the mighty Valderrama Golf Club, which burst onto the world stage as host of the 1997 Ryder Cup. Europe, led by the legendary Seve Ballesteros, clinched a memorable one-point victory over the Americans.

Valderrama has also played host to the WGC American Express Championship (winners including Tiger Woods and Mike Weir), the Volvo Masters and the Andalucía Masters. In 2014 the Costa del Sol welcomed a new European Tour event, the NH Collection Open, which has found a home next door to Valderrama at the highly touted La Reserva Golf Club.

A half-hour drive up the coast lies Finca Cortesin which has hosted the Volvo World Matchplay on three occasions; matchplay maestro Ian Poulter claiming the trophy in 2011.

Our guide to playing the best golf courses in the Costa del Sol.

There are plenty of options on the Costa del Sol where you and your golfing buddies can enjoy a memorable trip away while still having enough of the end-of-season budget left for a few rounds at the bar.

La Cala is the biggest golf complex in Spain and is home to three superb championship courses, so you’ve got enough variety on offer to keep even the typical group moaner happy!

Marbella Golf and Country Club has a terrific Robert Trent Jones-designed layout and packages at nearby Hotel Las Palmeras are half-board, so you won’t need to worry about dinner. The hotel is situated adjacent to the town’s marina, giving you plenty of options in the evening. From here you can also access Chaparral Golf Club, a beautiful golf club that sweeps its way along the spectacular Mijas coastline.

You'll find plenty of good restaurants and bars offering live music and DJ's in most of the resorts scattered along the Costa del Sol and some hotels even have casinos. Marbella and Puerto Banus offer more exclusive venues; head for the famous Golden Mile illuminated with glitzy restaurants and bars that give way to an endless selection of clubs.

The world renowned charms of Puerto Banus are just minutes away, where Sinatra's and Olivia Valere, packed out with freshly tanned faces, lie in wait.

From the mountain location in Marbella at the sumptuous Anantara Villa Padierna Palace it is possible to see the North African coastline on a clear day, while at sundown, there are few more romantic experiences than watching the sun setting over the peaks while sipping on a glass of bubbles. The Andalucian-inspired seafood dishes at the hotel’s La Veranda restaurant come highly recommended.

The the Westin La Quinta Golf Resort is an ideal destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway that combines luxury, relaxation, and golf. Nestled in a picturesque location surrounded by lush green gardens and scenic views of the mountains. The SO/ Sotogrande Golf Resort, situated just an hour from Malaga airport is another popular option for couples.

There are a number of top-class resorts in the Costa del Sol which offer that extra bit of comfort and style. The Gran Hotel Elba Estepona is one of the most luxurious hotels in Spain. Not only does the hotel offer unrivalled levels of service and style, it’s stunning beachfront location is simply breathtaking.

If you prefer to have the golf course at your doorstep, Hotel Finca Cortesin and La Zambra are among the most luxurious bases in the region.