Playing golf in western Andalusia is something truly special. Here, historic courses sit alongside modern championship facilities, the salty winds of the coast mingle with the scent of pine and olive trees, and leisurely rounds coexist with genuine tests for the experienced golfer. Whether you're seeking a classic parkland course, a tactical links layout or a course designed by some of golf's greatest names, all of this awaits within easy reach of our accommodations.
Playing golf in western Andalusia is something truly special. Here, historic courses sit alongside modern championship facilities, the salty winds of the coast mingle with the scent of pine and olive trees, and leisurely rounds coexist with genuine tests for the experienced golfer. Whether you're seeking a classic parkland course, a tactical links layout or a course designed by some of golf's greatest names, all of this awaits within easy reach of our accommodations. Here, our golf hosts Bibbi and Håkan present the courses included when you stay with us, and others, in western Spain.
Islantilla Golf Club Resort – 27 Holes of Variety
With three nine-hole loops – Blue, Yellow and Green – Islantilla offers 27 challenging and varied holes. The Blue loop features both easier holes and some genuinely tough ones, where the ravine is often cited as the course's most iconic hole. The Yellow loop is considered the most difficult, with length and water in play, but rewards those who master their long game. The Green loop is the shortest and most accessible, with fewer hazards and a more relaxed pace of play. There's also one of the area's best practice facilities, a well-stocked golf shop and a popular restaurant. The course is moreover within easy walking distance of our accommodation at AMA Islantilla Resort. A must for anyone wanting to experience the best of Costa de la Luz.
Isla Canela Old Course – Classic Parkland
Designed by Juan Catarineu and opened in 1993, Old Course feels forgiving at first glance but quickly reveals its hidden challenges. Water comes into play on ten holes, strategically placed olive and orange trees, and flat fairways make the round as enjoyable as it is technically demanding. Located where the Guadiana River meets the Atlantic, this is a course that combines relaxation with precision.
Isla Canela Links – An Andalusian Links Experience
This course, designed by José Canales, sits along the Guadiana River and offers an exciting blend of links and parkland character. Water is in play on nearly half the holes, and particularly challenging are the third hole (a par 3 with a straight approach) and the long par 4s on holes 11 and 13. For the experienced golfer, this becomes a test of strategy and nerve – a taste of Scotland, but in sunny Andalusian weather.
Quinta do Vale – Seve's Masterclass
Here, Severiano Ballesteros has left his signature. The course, opened in 2008, offers 18 holes with an unusual structure: 6 par 3s, 6 par 4s and 6 par 5s. Its location by the Guadiana River makes the wind a factor that shifts from day to day. Fairways are generous, but strategic bunkers, doglegs and water hazards demand careful thought. A course that rewards bold and creative players – and sometimes requires a buggy. There's also a brand new Academy Course (September 2025) opposite the clubhouse – we haven't played it yet but we're looking forward to it!
Castro Marim – Three Loops and Fabulous Views
With its three loops – Guadiana, Atlántico and Grouse – Castro Marim offers a combination of nature, views and golfing pleasure. Grouse is the newest loop, with elevated tees, broad fairways and the chance to spot wildlife and birdlife. Atlántico is the shortest but demands precision from the tee, which can yield low scores on a good day. Guadiana requires thought in your play: choice of drive, positioning for doglegs, and approach shots to elevated, bunker-guarded greens are crucial for a good result. Whichever loop you play, you'll find a clubhouse designed like a castle, a lovely terrace and a restaurant that makes memories of difficult shots fade quickly. A course with soul and beauty – and sometimes requiring a buggy.
Bellavista Golf Club – Spain's Oldest Course
Founded as far back as 1916, Bellavista is part of Spanish golf history. The course offers great variety – from long holes with bunkers guarding the greens to shorter, more straightforward holes. The greens are often quick, and several are elevated, which makes approach shots particularly exciting. Pine trees, olive trees and almond trees frame the course and create a feel reminiscent of playing back home in the Nordic countries. You'll be met with friendly staff, a good restaurant and plenty of available tee times. An obvious stop for any golfer in the area.
La Monacilla – Olazábal's Championship Course
Designed by José Maria Olazábal, La Monacilla is a course with large greens, broad fairways and beautiful views over lakes and pine forest. From the red tees it's fun and forgiving – from the yellow tees it becomes a completely different challenge with length and strategic difficulty. The course is easy to walk and complemented by a fine practice area for both short and long game. Together with Bellavista, just five minutes away, La Monacilla makes a perfect golfing duo during your stay.
Nuevo Portil – Charm and Precision
Shorter than its neighbours but far from easy. At Nuevo Portil, careful thought from the tee is required – here precision is rewarded over power. The course winds through pine trees and water features, with some residential areas alongside certain holes. After your round, a cosy restaurant with a lovely terrace awaits, perfect for unwinding.
We haven't yet had the chance to play El Rompido North and South, but as soon as we do, we'll be back with our thoughts on these two.
Welcome, and we hope to see you in our fantastic area!
Håkan and Bibbi
Originally published by PT Golf Sweden.