The new Costa Esuri resort is situated next to the Portuguese border close to the picturesque coastal town of Ayamonte. When fully completed, Costa Esuri will have apartments, townhouses, shops, a 4-star hotel, as well as a couple of 18-hole golf courses.

Inaugurated in 2007, the West course at Costa Esuri has already received some excellents comments regarding the condition of its fairways and greens. The first nine holes run alongside the River Guadiana which separates Spain from Portugal. This section of the West Course is quite flat and, because of its proximity to the beach, it can be described as links in style. Big hitters will enjoy the front nine, although sea breezes can often cause problems. In contrast the back nine, which heads off inland, is much tighter and more undulating. Several water hazards will also give you something else to think about.

The first hole on the West Course provides you with an excellent chance of scoring a birdie, providing you hit a straight drive off the tee. Next up is a long par 4 with a nice wide fairway, followed by a par-3 with a wide entrance to the green. Take extra care if the wind is blowing in off the sea. The fourth hole (par 4) has a steep slope guarding the front of the green, as does the par-5 sixth. Things should be a little easier on the 7th (par 4), although a poor drive could land you in trouble. Aim for the right of the wide fairway on the par-4 8th, as this should give you an easier approach to the green.

There are some more great holes on the parkland-style back nine, particularly the 12th (par 3). This hole, with its long carry over water and a severely sloping green, has been described as ‘intimidating’. The 14th (par 4), with a narrowing fairway and wild rough on the right-hand side, is also very tough. It’s advisable to play it safe on this one. The 16th is a long par-3, with problems on the left and right, and water behind the green. This is followed by a technically-challenging but fairly short par-5 – another hole where it’s best to play safe. Fortunately the par-4 final hole is quite straightforward, although there is a slight hill up to the green.

The East Course at Costa Esuri is due to open in 2008.

Facilities
Costa Esuri has a modern clubhouse with a cafeteria, changing rooms and pro shop. Practice facilities include a 300-metre driving range, bunker area, pitching green and putting green. You can also enjoy tennis and bowling on the site.

Essential Information
Holes: 18 (soon to be 36)
Par: 72
Official website: costaesurigolf.com