Did you know that Malaga is a golf city? When you think of Malaga, you probably think about sunny beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife. However, many people may need to learn that Malaga is also a golf city with a rich golfing history, top-class golf courses, and a booming golf tourism industry.
Nestled on the stunning Costa del Sol in southern Spain, Malaga has become a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of challenging courses, breathtaking views, and a favorable year-round climate.
Many tourists in the city on vacation or who decide to travel to study spanish Malaga discover the exciting world of golf there. Suppose you needed to learn about this side of Malaga. In that case, we recommend you keep reading. In this article, we will explore the golfing scene in Malaga, highlighting its golfing history, top golf courses, golf tourism industry, and why it has become a must-visit destination for golfers worldwide. Let’s get started!
From Humble Beginnings to Prominence
The history of golf in Malaga dates from the late 19th century. At that time, the British community introduced the game to the locals. The first golf course in Malaga, Real Club de Campo de Malaga, was established in 1925 and designed by renowned golf course architect Harry Colt. This 9-hole course near the city center was the first golf course in Andalusia and set the foundation for golf in Malaga.
Over the years, golf in Malaga gained popularity, and more golf courses were built in the region. In the 1960s and 1970s, several championship golf courses were constructed along the Costa del Sol, earning the area the nickname “Costa del Golf.” These courses were designed by internationally renowned architects such as Robert Trent Jones, Sr., and Gary Player, and they quickly gained recognition for their challenging layouts and stunning scenery.
Today, Malaga is home to numerous golf courses, ranging from championship courses to executive courses, catering to golfers of all skill levels. The golfing history of Malaga has come a long way from its humble beginnings, and it has now established itself as a prominent golf destination in Europe.
Top Golf Courses in Malaga: A Golfer’s Paradise
Malaga boasts an impressive array of golf courses, offering a golfer’s paradise with diverse layouts, challenges, and scenic views. So if you are a golf lover and you are planning to visit the city during your next vacation or to study Spanish Malaga, here are some of the top golf courses you cannot miss:
· Valderrama Golf Club
Considered one of the best golf courses in Europe, Valderrama Golf Club is a championship course located in Sotogrande, near Malaga. This prestigious golf course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., has hosted numerous international tournaments, including the 1997 Ryder Cup. It is known for its challenging layout, tight fairways, and lightning-fast greens. Valderrama Golf Club is a private club with limited tee times, making it a must-play for avid golfers seeking a world-class golfing experience.
· Finca Cortesin Golf Club
Located in Estepona, near Malaga, Finca Cortesin Golf Club is another top-class golf course with international recognition. Designed by Cabell Robinson, this 18-hole championship course is known for its immaculate conditioning, generous fairways, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains. Finca Cortesin Golf Club has hosted several prestigious tournaments, including the Volvo World Match Play Championship, and is a favourite among golfers seeking a challenging and memorable golfing experience.
· La Cala Resort
It is a premier golf resort in Mijas, Malaga, offering three 18-hole championship courses: Campo Asia, Campo Europa, and Campo America. Designed by renowned golf course architect Cabell Robinson, each class has unique features and challenges, ranging from wide fairways to narrow ones, undulating greens, and strategically placed bunkers. La Cala Resort has hosted numerous professional tournaments. It is known for its excellent facilities, including a golf academy, a luxurious clubhouse, and various accommodation options, making it a popular destination for golfers of all levels.
· Santa Maria Golf Club
Located in Marbella, Santa Maria Golf Club is a popular course known for its stunning scenery and challenging layout. Designed by Antonio Garcia Garrido, this 18-hole course features lush fairways lined with pine and oak trees, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens. There are many tee options available on this course. Therefore, it is suitable for golfers of different skill levels. Santa Maria Golf Club also has a well-equipped golf academy, a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar, and a pro shop, making it a complete golfing destination.
· Los Naranjos Golf Club
Los Naranjos Golf Club is a highly prestigious golf course that Robert Trent Jones, Sr. designed, and it is situated in Nueva Andalucia. It is known for its challenging layout and beautiful landscaping; this 18-hole championship course features wide fairways, large greens, and strategically placed water hazards and bunkers. Los Naranjos Golf Club has hosted several international tournaments and is known for its excellent facilities.
Golf Tourism in Malaga: A Thriving Industry
The golf tourism industry in Malaga has experienced significant growth in recent years, attracting golfers from all over the world. With its favorable climate, stunning scenery, and top-class golf courses, Malaga has become a favored destination for golfers seeking a golfing getaway. The region offers various golf packages, including stay-and-play deals, golf and accommodation packages, and golf tours, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Many golf tourists visit Malaga for its renowned golf courses, taking advantage of the excellent golfing facilities, challenging layouts, and breathtaking views. Golfers can enjoy a round of golf in the morning and relax on the beautiful beaches or explore the cultural heritage of Malaga in the afternoon, making it a perfect blend of golf and leisure. The region also offers a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs, providing entertainment options for golfers after a day on the course.
The golf tourism industry in Malaga has also contributed significantly to the local economy, generating revenue through golf course fees, accommodation, dining, transportation, and other related services. Many golf courses in Malaga have invested in state-of-the-art facilities, including clubhouses, pro shops, and golf academies, to cater to the needs of golf tourists. The industry has also created employment opportunities, supporting the local workforce and promoting economic growth in the region.
In conclusion, Malaga is a golf city with a rich golfing history, top-class golf courses, a thriving golf tourism industry, and various activities.
