Marbella is well known as the perfect European destination for golfers, with tens of thousands of visitors each year looking for a guaranteed round or two in the sunshine of Andalucía.
These oasis that add a splash of deep green to the hills of this part of Spain are renowned for their quality and pristine presentation to a demanding public, which judging by the numbers of golfers who return year after year are not disappointed.
The eastern part of Marbella is blessed with several of these emerald gems—below we give a brief rundown of each, together with a look at their ‘signature’ holes…
Río Real
Río Real was the first course in this part of Marbella, opening in 1965—only Guadalmina to the west is older—and was instrumental in establishing the popularity of golf in the region. Designed by master architect José Arana, its setting is beautiful, taking in as it does the glorious beach and rolling low hills that rise up from the coast. The river of the same name meanders amongst the fairways, while the wooded fringes provide welcome shade under the Spanish sun. This course is not as challenging as some of the mountainside golf clubs, but accuracy is needed with water in play on several holes. A good putting touch is also required to master the tricky greens.
Signature hole: par 4 fourth: This long par 4 has a spectacular seafront setting where sea breezes can make a considerable difference on how you play it from one week to the next.
Marbella Golf & Country Club
Designed by highly respected golf architect Robert Trent Jones, the hilly and rocky terrain puts a premium on accuracy rather than length on the front nine, before opening up on the park-like back nine. A truly impressive—and palatial—clubhouse welcomes visitors. Surrounded by nature, there has been very limited development here, with olive groves, unspoilt hillsides and views to the Mediterranean providing a beautiful backdrop
Signature hole: Par 5 sixth: An elevated tee is either a little daunting, or inspiring—depending on how you have handled the first five holes! Care should be taken with your second and third shots as water protects the green, which will require a high approach shot.
Santa Clara Golf
Right next to the Marbella Golf & Country Club—but a completely different experience—is one of the younger courses—Santa Clara. It almost immediately gained a reputation for its quality design, standard of upkeep and immaculate personal service. Wide fairways are appreciated by those wishing to use their driver—but the beautiful lake round which holes 12, 13 and 14 cluster attracts stray shots.
Signature hole: par 5 tenth: This stroke index one hole requires thought, with a hazard bisecting the fairway very much in play for the second shot. Do you take it on or play up and treat it as a par six? The choice is yours—and good luck whichever you choose!
Santa Maria Golf & Country Club
Breathtaking views across the Mediterranean and a wooded natural setting in a secluded valley, together with a fine clubhouse in an old cortijo that oozes 19th century charm, make Santa María a perennial favourite. Each hole sets its own particular challenge, with unforgiving rough and water ready to punish the unweary.
Signature hole: par 4 11th: From an elevated tee boasting sea views the hole dog legs to the left. It may be short at 286 metres, but the well-bunkered green, with mature trees to negotiate and a spectacular waterfall, make it one of the most beautiful holes in Marbella.
Cabopino Golf
Just inland from Puerto Cabopino, this course may not be the longest, but if you are not accurate be prepared to lose some golf balls. Tight fairways and several water holes make it a true test of thoughtful golf.
Signature hole: par 4 fifth: With out of bounds into a pretty stream all down the right it is best to keep your driver in the bag. Two good straight hits are required to get it on the green in regulation, characterising a short but challenging course that is ideal for a game-improving round.
Greenlife Golf
Set in the heart of Elviria, Greenlife Golf is a charming and highly popular par 3 nine holes. Always in perfect condition with a large lake central to the layout.
Signature hole: All of them!: Each hole is a test of your short game and every one presents a superb setting for golfers of all abilities.
Residencia Estates has a selection of quality properties near all these courses. Should you be searching for the perfect golf villa or apartment in Marbella, please contact us for an appointment.