Santa Maria Golf & Country Club

Few of the Costa del Sol’s golf clubs offer 19^th century splendour and ooze character, but The Santa Maria Golf and Country Club is certainly one of them. A hit with Europe’s elite for decades, the club offers a challenging round of golf with views across the course to the Mediterranean, as well as inland to the mountains that lie to the north.

Although it’s not the longest course on the coast, it’s still considered one of the best; each hole is unique and many of the tees are elevated. On a clear day, the views from the 10th to the 16th holes are nothing short of breathtaking.

*Buggy Recommended

HANDY HINTS:

The opening hole is a fairly straightforward 289m par-4. The tee shot must clear a small lake and avoid the ravine to the left of the fairway. After that, only a short iron is required to find the generous putting surface, guarded by three bunkers.

The 11th hole is a spectacular left-handed dog leg, par-4, measuring just 286 metres. The elevated tee is at the highest point on the course – long hitters should avoid aiming towards the lake or bunker. An attractive waterfall makes this well-bunkered green a pleasure to play on. Those with a camera to hand should take a moment to admire the sheer beauty of the setting from the ‘mirador’ behind the 11th green.

Facilities:

Pro shop, trolleys, buggies, putting green, club cleaning, tennis, lawn bowls, sauna, clubhouse – an outstanding renovated finca with bar, lounge and restaurant overlooking the first tee. Snooker/ billiard rooms are also available to members.

Requirements

Handicap Limit: Men 36, ladies 36 – soft spikes only.