How The Costa Del Sol Became Golf’s hottest destination
When the Costa del Sol was chosen to be the host of the 2023 Solheim Cup it didn’t come as a surprise. Already one of Spain’s finest tourist destinations, the area has slowly built up a reputation as one of the best places to play golf in the world.
With hope on the horizon for a 2021 less beleaguered by the pandemic, golfers around the world are looking forward to the possibility of travelling and enjoying some incredible courses – and the Costa del Sol could offer the perfect place for it.
But it has not always been the case that golfers have thought of this area of southern Spain as a hotspot for golf. So what has changed? Here we take a look at the rise of the Costa del Sol as one of the hottest golfing destinations in the world and consider whether this might be the ideal holiday destination for you.
An incredible choice of courses
You might not realise that the Costa del Sol actually has more than 70 stunning golf courses situated along this famous coastline. Benahavis boasts the highest number of courses per capita in Spain, while the world-famous Marbella actually has more golf courses than any other Spanish municipality.
It’s not just the number of courses either – it’s the quality on offer. There are courses here that have been designed by some of the biggest names in golf, including Gary Player, Robert Trent Jones and Javier Arana.
It’s not surprising to learn, then, that over 500,000 golf tourists visit the Andalusian region every year – and the Costa del Sol contains by far the most of the golf courses here.
Close to amazing attractions
Part of the charm of golfing in the Costa del Sol is the knowledge of how close you are going to be to some of Spain’s most incredible resort towns, beaches, and attractions.
Marbella attracts glamorous celebrities along with the super-rich – and it’s not hard to see why. The famous marina at Puerto Banus gives way to stylish boutiques and an amazing nightlife scene so that any trip golfing on the Costa del Sol can be filled with plenty of other fantastic experiences.
For those seeking gastronomic pleasures after a day of golfing, Benahavis hosts a wonderful range of restaurants serving superb food. So the Costa del Sol really does have something for every golfer beyond the course.
Historical golfing pedigree
It is also a thrill for golfers to visit really classic locations that have become well known for their golf – and this is something that can certainly be said for the Costa del Sol. The area has hosted a range of top international tournaments since the 1966 Spanish Open at Royal Sotogrande – including the 1997 Ryder Cup.
Of course, there’s no need to be a golfing historian to be able to make the most of the gold here – but it certainly helps to know that the world’s finest golfers have experienced the Costa del Sol and found it to be an excellent location.
Amazing all year round
You can never guarantee that you will get good weather when you visit somewhere to play golf, but the Costa del Sol really does give you a very good chance. Now officially confirmed as the sunniest place in Spain, the area gets around 320 days of sunshine every year. It really does feel fantastic to enjoy the lovely warm Spanish climate while you play.
This means that you can visit with the peace of mind that you will almost certainly be able to enjoy stunning, uninterrupted golf.
Final thoughts
The Costa del Sol has become known as one of the hottest destinations in golf – and that’s not just due to the temperature. The lovely courses, beautiful location and historical charm come together to offer a golfing experience like nowhere else in the world. It could definitely be worth a visit in 2021.
Mike James is a regular traveller and frequent visitor to Spain having lived in Andalucia, Valencia & Murcia during his time. With first-hand experience of life in Spain, a background in finance and property and an established freelance writer, he provides engaging and well-researched content across a broad range of topics.
