There are currently more than 70 golf courses in Andalucia, with more than half that number situated on the Costa del Sol. The first course in Andalucia was the Parador Malaga which opened in 1925, but it was not until the 1970’s and 80’s that the golf boom really took off. The hosting of the Ryder Cup at Valderrama (near San Roque, Cadiz) in 1997 helped to cement the area’s reputation as a centre for golf tourism. Today, the stretch of coastline between Malaga and Gibraltar has the highest concentration of golf courses anywhere in Europe and, as a result, the Costa del Sol has been dubbed the ‘Costa del Golf’.

Golfers are attracted to this part of southern Spain by the mild climate, and because courses are open all year round. At most clubs the tees, fairways and greens are also immaculately maintained. Several talented designers, such as Robert Trent Jones Sr, Seve Ballesteros and Gary Player, have fully utilised the natural terrain to create some beautiful courses, several of which enjoy fine views over Mediterranean.

At the heart of golf on the Costa del Sol is the resort of Marbella. There are over a dozen fine courses within a half hour drive of the town. In the Valle del Golf (Golf Valley), in the hills above Marbella, there are five courses, including three that are of championship standard – Las Brisas, Aloha and Los Naranjos.

Golf in Andalucia is not just confined to the Costa del Sol though. New courses are being opened throughout the region, in particular the Costa de la Luz, Costa de Almeria, and further inland near towns such as Ronda, Antequera and Seville.

Green Fees vary considerably according to the golf course and the time of year. The high season generally runs from October until April, although at some golf clubs it’s from mid-September until May. Some courses are always popular so it is advisable to book in advance. A handicap certificate is required at some clubs.

Volvo Masters
The biggest annual golf tournament in Andalucia is the Volvo Masters at Valderrama. This year a number of Europe’s top players will be taking part, including defending champion Jeev Milkha Singh. The 2007 tournament runs from 1st to 4th November, with the practice rounds taking place on 28th and 29th of October. Tickets can be purchased from the official tournament website at www.volvomasters.com.

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