Hotel Las Palmeras Affiliated by Fergus

Following a refurbishment, the hotel's 398 rooms and suites feel fresh and well kept, especially for the price point. Rooms are spacious and light, with a simple classical style that does the job nicely after a long day in the sun. Air conditioning is standard, and you also get satellite TV, hairdryer, direct-dial telephone, safe deposit box and a private terrace.

If you can, it's worth requesting a sea-facing room. The terrace is a genuine perk for drying kit, sorting tomorrow's gear and grabbing a bit of evening breeze before heading into town. The layout is straightforward and designed to feel airy and cool, with enough space to spread out your kit and unwind properly after a round.

Facilities are geared towards an easy, no-fuss stay. The outdoor pool is the main hub in warmer months, with space to sit back and unwind after your round. There's also a tennis court and a games room for a change of pace on rest days. For families, the kids' club typically runs in peak periods, which frees you up for a morning tee time without worrying about keeping younger travellers entertained.

Food is buffet-style for all three meals. Expect a mixed international spread with familiar options, plus a few Spanish staples. It's not trying to be fine dining, but it's convenient, consistent and practical if you're playing golf most days and don't want to plan every meal around tee times. Breakfast is the usual continental spread with hot options, while lunch and dinner bring in a mix of Spanish and international dishes that cover most tastes.

All in, Las Palmeras is best viewed as a well-located base: comfortable rooms, solid facilities and quick access to Fuengirola's beach, bars and restaurants. The real appeal here is the combination of comfort, location and value. You're a few minutes' walk from the beachfront and town centre, which means easy access to bars, restaurants and a bit of nightlife if that's part of the plan. At the same time, you're close enough to the region's top courses that you can play a different track each day without spending hours on the road. For groups, societies or couples looking for a straightforward base with solid facilities and a prime Costa del Sol location, this does the job brilliantly for the price.