Did you know that the Costa del Sol is known as the 'Costa del Golf'? And rightly so. With more than 70 top-class golf courses along the coastline from Nerja to Gibraltar, this region is a true paradise for golf lovers. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, the combination of varied courses, perfect climate and excellent facilities makes the Costa del Sol one of Europe's most popular golf destinations.

The best golf courses on the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol's reputation as a golf destination is underlined by the presence of some prestigious golf courses. These are the absolute best:

• Real Club Valderrama (9.3/10): Widely recognised as the best golf course in continental Europe. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr, this legendary course has made history as host of the Ryder Cup and continues to set the standard for golf excellence in Europe. Here you will pay from €518 for an unforgettable round of golf.
• Finca Cortesín Golf Club (9.2/10): An architectural masterpiece that integrates perfectly into the Mediterranean landscape. With its 18 holes designed by Cabell Robinson and more than 100 bunkers, this course offers a challenge for any golfer. The green fee starts from €365.
• La Zagaleta (9.1/10): Hidden in one of Europe's most prestigious resorts, this exclusive 36-hole golf course combines privacy with perfection. With two different courses, La Zagaleta offers variety for every level, from €234 per round.
• La Reserva Club Sotogrande (8.9/10): A modern classic known for its immaculate maintenance and spectacular views over the Mediterranean. The course offers a perfect mix of challenge and fun, with rates starting from €240.
• Real Club de Golf Sotogrande (8.9/10): This historic 1964 course is praised for its technical layout and strategic challenges. With 27 holes, this course offers plenty of variety, from €322 per round.

Source: Scores and prices come from leadingcourses.com/en and may differ after publishing.

Year-round golf under the Spanish sun

The climate on the Costa del Sol makes it possible to play golf 365 days a year. With an average of 300 sunny days a year and mild temperatures even in the winter months, the region offers ideal conditions:

• In spring, you have perfect golf temperatures between 18-22°C
• During autumn it is still pleasantly warm, but also less crowded on the courts
• In winter, the temperature hovers around 16-18°C, ideal for an active round of golf (Read all about it wintering in Spain)

It does get very hot in summer, in which case it is best to look for an early morning and/or late afternoon round.

Investing in Spanish golf property

A property on or near a golf course means more than just easy access to the greens - it is an investment in a complete lifestyle. Whether you live right on the course or nearby, as a member of a golf club of your choice, you enjoy all the benefits these exclusive resorts have to offer.

Advantages of owning property on or near a golf course

With your own home in a golfing area, you control your pace of play. With 300 days of sunshine a year, you can play golf all season long and invite friends and family to experience this unique lifestyle. Modern golf resorts also offer extensive sports facilities such as heated swimming pools, tennis courts and fitness centres - perfect for year-round active fulfilment.

Value retention and growth

Real estate around golf courses remains one of the most stable and attractive investments in the Spanish property market. Studies show that properties within golf resorts are worth an average of 19% more than comparable properties outside. Specifically for the Costa del Sol, we see impressive figures: for example, property prices in Málaga rose by 10.89% between 2023-2024, with an average annual return of 7.65% for the region. 

And of course, you can generate extra income by renting out your property during periods when you are not there yourself.

Buying property on the Costa del Sol?

The combination of the perfect climate, excellent facilities and the popularity of golf as a sport creates a constant demand for properties in and around golf resorts. Whether you choose a flat overlooking the fairway or a villa nearby, you are investing in real estate and a lifestyle that appeals to more and more people.

Are you considering investing in golf properties on the Costa del Sol? Contact Alness for personal advice on the best golf locations and available properties to suit your needs and investment goals.