Although Santa Clara was only opened in 2001, this beautifully-maintained course has become one of the most popular in the area, especially with medium to high handicappers. It has also attracted some important tournaments, such as the Spanish Professionals Championship in 2003, won by Miguel Angel Jimenez from Malaga. The parkland-type course was designed by Enrique Canales and is located in one of Marbella’s most exclusive areas. Canales and his team have succesfully managed to make the course look remarkably natural, even though it is relatively new.

The main characteristic of Santa Clara is the contrast between the southern part of the course, which is fairly level and has wide fairways, and the much more difficult northern section which is much hillier. From this latter part of the course, there are fine views over the surrounding countryside and the Mediterranean Sea. Most of the greens at Santa Clara are large and easy to read – a notable exception is the 16th hole – and they are usually well-protected by bunkers. Another interesting feature of the course is the lack of rough.

The first few holes are generally quite easy, and low handicappers may find them a little dull. This all changes at the eighth, which rises to the highest point of the course. The next hole, the par 5 ninth, looks down towards the sea and is many people’s favourite. The ‘Santa Clara Corner’ is widely considered to be the highlight of the course. This is the collective name given to the combination of the 12th, 13th and 14th holes, where accuracy is rewarded. The 18th is a great finishing hole, with the green beside an attractive lake.

Santa Clara requires a minimum handicap of 30 for men and 36 for ladies.

As you would expect for a course of this quality, Santa Clara has some excellent facilities, including an impressive clubhouse with a restaurant, bar and terrace which overlooks the practice area. There is also a driving range and golf lessons are available.

How to Get to Santa Clara
Santa Clara is fairly easy to find, being situated next to N340 coast road near the Costa del Sol Hospital. Take the exit at Los Monteros and head north on the main road for about a mile until you reach the golf course.

Essential Information
Holes:18
Par: 71
Official Website: santaclara-golf.com

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