I retrieved my summer golf wear from the back of the wardrobe and headed to Spain’s Costa del Sol to see what awaits our clients for the season ahead. Spring is always an ideal time to visit — the courses are in excellent condition, the weather is comfortable, and there’s a sense of anticipation before the busy months arrive.
This time, I chose a slightly different route, flying from Heathrow to Gibraltar, as my trip focused on the western side of the Costa del Sol. The journey is straightforward, although you do need to walk your clubs across the Spanish border to collect your hire car or transfers. It’s around 500 yards, so luggage with wheels is definitely recommended.
The weather couldn’t have been better for golf, with temperatures hovering between 20 and 22 degrees under clear blue skies. It was breezy along the coastline — at least that’s what I’m blaming for a few wayward shots.
Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol – Alcaidesa
My first stop was the luxury five-star Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol at Alcaidesa, near Sotogrande. This beautiful new resort is just three minutes from two excellent 18-hole courses — Links and Heathland — and within easy reach of La Cañada and San Roque Golf Club.
On this whistle-stop visit, I played the Links course, which proved to be a real pleasure. It’s an excellent holiday course with a mix of enjoyable and challenging holes, all complemented by spectacular coastal views. The sister Heathland course offers a tougher test, making this resort an ideal option for those wanting to combine relaxing days with enjoyable golf.
San Roque Club
Spoilt for choice, I also visited the impressive San Roque Club. From the moment you arrive at its historic entrance, the experience feels special. The course was in terrific condition and has been made more forgiving over the years, with bark chippings lining the fairways to help reduce lost balls. The traditional Spanish-style clubhouse and superb practice facilities only add to the appeal.
San Roque New is now operating independently. It’s a challenging course with narrow, undulating fairways and is currently using a temporary clubhouse, but still offers a strong golfing test.
SO/ Sotogrande
Before moving on, I toured the intriguingly named SO/ Sotogrande hotel, formerly NH Almenara. This five-star resort has been transformed into a stylish boutique destination, complete with the attractive Alto golf course on-site. The redesign gives the property a fresh, contemporary feel while maintaining its relaxed Andalusian charm.
Anantara Villa Padierna Palace – Benahavís
Next, I travelled to just outside Benahavís to visit the five-star Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, where two 18-hole golf courses sit right on your doorstep.
Los Flamingos is an excellent hotel course, featuring challenging holes, beautiful views, and abundant birdlife. Alferini, by contrast, provides a much sterner test — narrow, technical, and demanding, making it ideal for more experienced golfers.
The hotel itself is exceptionally well run and located within easy reach of Estepona — a charming town perfect for an evening or two. An Uber proved to be the ideal transfer option, particularly as I wanted to enjoy a glass or two of Rioja without worrying about driving.
A Destination That Delivers
It was a real pleasure to see the courses and hotels in such good condition ahead of the busy season. Everywhere I visited reinforced why the Costa del Sol remains one of Europe’s most consistently popular golf holiday destinations. With such a wide variety of courses and accommodation, there really is something for everyone.
- Taxis are plentiful on the Costa del Sol, and Uber is both reliable and affordable.
- Golf buggies are recommended on most courses, particularly inland, where layouts tend to be hillier.
- With so many excellent courses close together, there’s no need to drive long distances to enjoy a varied golf itinerary. Let us help you plan the perfect trip.
Have a look at our trips here
