A short distance inland from the picturesque hilltop town of Vejer de la Frontera, around halfway between Marbella and Jerez, is this tranquil setting which is home to the Benalup Golf and Country Club. The challenging course, designed by Paul Rolin and opend in 2001, has some marvellous views of the Alconocales natural park and the Laguna de la Janda plain, where an enormous lake once was. On clear days you can even see as far as the coastline of Africa.

Benalup is built on former scrubland. Hundreds of mature cork and olive trees, which were uprooted to make way for a new motorway, have been transplanted here. Much of the success of the course is down to the innovative use of TerraCottem in its construction. This polymer, developed by a professor from the University of Ghent in Belgium, helps the soil to retain moisture so that a lot less watering is required. It has already been used in arid parts of Africa to help with reforestation, as well as at top football grounds in the United Kingdom. As a result this rather barren landscape has been transformed in to a green oasis. Other courses throughout Andalucia are certain to follow Benalup’s lead and use TerraCottem as they aim to become more ecologically responsible.

The course itself superbly utilises the natural contours of the terrain. It has an excellent layout, with plenty of bunkers dotted amongst the greens and fairways. Water hazards are also an important feature, with several lakes and a picturesque river meandering through the course. As it is fairly remote Benalup does not yet attract the hordes of golfers which descend upon many of the other courses along the coast.

Facilities
The Benalup complex contains a luxury 5-star hotel complete with a spa, fitness centre, and tennis courts. There are also several bars, restaurants and a night club. For more information, visit www.fairplaygolfhotel.com. Golfing facilities at Benalup include a pro shop, driving range, putting greens and chipping greens.

How to get to Benalup
If you are travelling along the coast, exit the N340 or A7 near Algeciras onto the new A-381 road towards Jerez de la Frontera. After about 30 km you will arrive at Benalup. The course is also about 50km from Jerez Airport.

Essential Information
Holes: 18
Par: 73
Official website: benalupgolf.com

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