Guide to the best golf courses in Spain
Whether you live in the area or you’re on vacation, this guide to the best golf courses in Spain is a mini bucket list! Golfers, don’t miss your chance.
Spain is one of Europe’s top holiday destinations, but for many it’s also a premier golfing destination. Sun, stunning coastlines, and a distinct vacay feeling make it a near-perfect spot for a round.
The country is home to close to 400 golf courses. But this small guide to the best golf courses in Spain focuses on just 5 – in our opinion, the must-plays if you’re in the country!
Las Colinas Golf and Country Club
This par-71, 18-hole championship course should be on every golfer’s bucket list to play.
The course blends naturally into the landscape and extends between the hills across the valley. It has generous lush fairways, extensive undulating greens, and numerous tees at each hole, which gives this course great versatility.
This course is challenging and golfers of all skill levels will find their rounds to be enjoyable. But you’ll need to focus on accuracy, distance control, and have an excellent short game.
If you happen to put yourself on the wrong part of the green, you may find that your putter has a treacherous shot to make.
Every hole is unique and presents its own test, but golfers will love the challenge of distance on the 1st par 4, 2nd par 4, 11th par 5, and the 17th par 3; which is more than 200 meters from the white tees.
Arrive at the course at least an hour early and use the practice area, which has a new chipping green.
Real Club Valderrama
Real Club Valderrama has been listed among the top golf courses in the world since 1989 and is a must-play if you’re in the Costa Del Sol area. You’ll be following in the footsteps of greats like Tiger Woods, Sergio Garcia, and Sir Nick Faldo.
It’s a member-only club, but golfers can still take the opportunity to play on this course as they offer limited public access between 12 and 2pm. The price is steep, but it’s worth it.
The fairways are tightly lined with cork trees, scattered with strategic bunkers, and a punishing rough. Fast greens and unpredictable hazards make it an exceptional course for experienced golfers.
The signature 4th hole is a par-5, La Cascada, which has an elevated green protected by a unique and beautiful waterfall.
A caddy accompanies each group, and their advice will be welcomed when you’re faced with tough decisions on the course.
Finca Cortesin
Finca Cortesin is one of the best golf courses in Spain and runs through a valley, creating around 7,500 yards of dramatic but exciting routing. It was also the first course in Spain to use eco-friendly grass.
The course has hosted a variety of professional tournaments, and each hole is designed to provide a challenge that requires strategic thinking. Golfers will need both their long and short game to be on top form.
Rolling fairways and well-protected, undulating greens make every hole interesting but tricky. The par-4 13th hole is their signature hole, but don’t be deceived by the wide fairway. There’s a water hazard running down the left size, which sneaks in front of the green.
Real Sevilla
Real Sevilla will test even the most confident of golfers, with lush fairways and tropical trees throughout. It’s open and looks flat at first glance, but it’s lengthy and has small, fast greens.
The 18th is its signature hole, just as you think it’s coming to an end. It’s a lofty 450 yards in distance, with a carry over a water hazard that continues down the left hand side of the hole.
To the right of the fairway is a guarding bunker, and you’ll need to make a short dog-leg left to reach the green, which is protected by more sand traps.
We recommend walking this beautiful course, and don’t forget to take along your own golf GPS.
Jordan Fuller is a retired golfer and businessman. When he’s not on the course working on his own game or mentoring young golfers, he writes in-depth articles for his website, Golf Influence.
