Costa del Sol boasts a fantastic mix of golf courses – from classic parkland layouts to technical challenges and courses with views so stunning they might just distract you from your game. We'd love to share our personal impressions of some of the courses our guests play most often – and which we ourselves never tire of.
Costa del Sol boasts a fantastic mix of golf courses – from classic parkland layouts to technical challenges and courses with views so stunning they might just distract you from your game. We'd love to share our personal impressions of some of the courses our guests play most often – and which we ourselves never tire of.
El Paraiso – Parkland in the Valley
One of our absolute favourites. Here you play in a beautiful valley between the La Concha mountains and the Mediterranean. The course is always immaculately maintained, the staff are friendly, and the restaurant is a sure bet for a bite after your round. The course is walker-friendly, except for two substantial climbs on holes 2 and 15. Wide fairways, some strategic streams and ponds, plus excellent practice facilities make El Paraiso a pleasure to play. Trolley included.
La Hacienda Heathland – Open, Challenging and Beautiful
An impressive clubhouse welcomes you here, shared with sister course Alcaidesa Links. Heathland is a spacious course with a layout that takes you up and down through undulating terrain. It's always in excellent condition and offers views over the Mediterranean and sometimes all the way to the Rock of Gibraltar. Buggy with GPS included, and there are excellent practice areas. Formerly known as Alcaidesa Heathland.
Atalaya Old – Championship Class and History
Old Course is renowned for its broad parkland-style fairways and strategically placed bunkers. The course is walker-friendly and trolley is included. Even the best short-game specialists are challenged by the elevated greens. Amongst mature eucalyptus trees and flowering shrubs, you'll enjoy a classic golfing experience. Sean Connery was a member here – that says something about the place's appeal.
Valle Romano – Guest Favourite
Valle Romano is our most popular course amongst guests – a resort course with views over the Mediterranean and top-class facilities both on the course and at the clubhouse. Some memorable holes include the 3rd, which slopes left all the way, and the 10th, a par 5 where a good drive can give you an advantage. The finishing hole, a tough par 3 towards the clubhouse, is a worthy finale. Buggy included.
La Cañada – Lightning-Fast Greens and Iconic Holes
Here, people often talk about the greens – they're said to be the fastest on the whole of Costa del Sol. The front nine is slightly easier, whilst the back nine is considerably tougher. Hole 17 is called "little hell" and hole 18 "big hell" – here you need to carry both water and deep valleys. Trolley included.
Doña Julia – Up, Down and Three Par Threes in a Row
The course starts with seven holes straight up the mountain, then comes a turn with magnificent views over the coast and Mediterranean. Three par threes in succession (11, 12 and 13) provide variety – and hole 13, 195 metres uphill into the wind, is a real test. Buggy included and the course is in excellent condition.
San Roque New – Seve Design and Plenty of Bunkers
A new favourite amongst guests. Located next to the prestigious Old Course and offers a pleasant atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. Designed by Seve Ballesteros, amongst others. With 147 bunkers it sounds daunting, but if you play smart you can avoid most of them. Trolley included.
Atalaya New – Short, Narrow and with Views
A more relaxed round in a rural setting with abundant wildlife. Here you need to keep control of your driver. The greens were upgraded to Bermuda grass in 2024 and are now in excellent condition. Fantastic views over both the Mediterranean and Gibraltar. Buggy included.
Azata Golf – The Course That Divides Opinion
A short and technical course that many feel grows on you with each round. The front nine often plays at an angle with some genuinely tricky holes, whilst the back nine has a more traditional layout. The greens are excellent and on hole 15 you might encounter a seller of used golf balls – perfect if you've lost a few along the way. Buggy included.
Estepona Golf – In Transition
Here you'll find enjoyable golf and fine views towards the Sierra Bermeja mountains and the sea. The course has new owners and is undergoing an improvement plan. Fairways on holes 10–18 have new irrigation and are developing nicely. Wide fairways, large greens and a pleasant atmosphere in the clubhouse. Buggy included.
We hope you'll have the opportunity to play as many of these courses as possible during your stay here. Each has its own unique character and charm – and it's precisely this variety that makes golf on Costa del Sol so special.
Annelie and Julle,
Golf Hosts for PT Golf in Estepona
Originally published by PT Golf Sweden.