If you enjoy a round of golf and are considering investing in apartments with golf course views or golf villas for sale, Marbella definitely has some of the best golf courses on the Costa del Sol. With a warm temperate climate and 320 days of sunshine throughout the year, Marbella offers the perfect conditions for working on your swing on the beautiful manicured fairways, undulating greens and 5-star amenities.
This stretch of the Spanish coastline (often referred to as the Costa del Golf) including the famous Golf Valley, is renowned for its high concentration of world-class golf resorts: around 60 at the latest count!
In the vicinity of Marbella alone, there are approximately 20 golf courses, so, we’ve decided to give you the low down on our favourite five golf courses, so that you can choose your perfect place to Tee Off.
La Zagaleta Golf Club (Most exclusive)
La Zagaleta takes pole position, even though it is technically located in Benahavís, it is often considered to be part of Marbella, and it is also one of the most exclusive golf clubs on the Costa del Sol, if not in the world. In fact, there are two golf courses set within this intensely private and secure (entrances are manned by 24-hour guards) community; and membership to the Country Club (including social membership without access to the sports facilities) is only available to owners, with a few exceptions.
The luxury mansions in La Zagaleta have a multi-million Euro price tag, and so it will come as no surprise that membership to this uber-exclusive golf club is also expensive, with fees currently running at €11.000 per annum and a sign-up fee of around €100,000. Obviously, at this level, you are gaining access to luxurious amenities, superb parkland golf courses and premium facilities, with privacy and security guaranteed.
Old course
Originally created in 1991, then redesigned in 2016, this course is the perfect blend between flora and fauna, surrounded by lush vegetation. The latest design by Marc Westenborg has created a challenging course. There is also the New Course which was designed by Steve Marnoch and Jonathan Gaunt and opened in 2005, which can be enjoyed by both owners and a number of non-owner members.
If you would like to become a member of La Zagaleta Country Club by finding the perfect La Zagaleta villa for sale, get in touch.
Marbella Club Golf Resort (Most prestigious)
Also, located in Benahavís, our next choice needs no introduction, as the Marbella Club is possibly the most iconic and instantly recognisable hotel and golf course. Designed by Dave Thomas, a regular of the Ryder Cup team and the architect of more than 100 golf courses all over the world. He was particularly pleased to be asked to designed such a prestigious course that ranks amongst the best in Spain.
This par 73 course looks spectacular, spanning an incredible 6,247 metres and comprising waterfalls, lakes and perfectly manicured greens and cleverly placed bunkers. It is said to have ‘the most dramatic 18th Tee in Europe”. As an added bonus, British PGA professional, Gary Vautier, is on-hand to answer your queries.
As you would expect from the Marbella Club, golfers enjoy a premium standard of service, access to thatched clubhouse overlooking the lake, providing a relaxed atmosphere to socialise, and on colder days there is even a cosy log fire. There is also the Marbella Club Golf Restaurant offering a superb setting and menu created by the Michelin starred executive chef of the Marbella Club, Juan Galvez.
If you would like to enjoy the benefits of membership to this 5-star golf resort, here is just one of the superb luxury Marbella villas for sale in close proximity to the Marbella Club Golf Resort.
Marbella Golf Country Club (Most affordable)
Not to be confused with the Marbella Club, this Robert Trent Jones Sr designed golf course is perfect for those who enjoy a relaxing round of golf in Marbella. The course is suitable for beginners (72-par) and is not too challenging. It is also one of the most affordable options, as there are a number of different levels of membership priced according to the perks provided.
Surrounded by olive groves, the aptly names El Olivo Restaurant at Marbella Golf offers a tranquil setting amongst the countryside, offering superb sea views from the sunny terrace. Perfect for enjoying a well-deserved post golf drink or meal, and a great venue for social events. Other amenities include tennis courts and business facilities.
El Paraiso Golf Club (Member-owned golf club)
This golf course has a lovely history, situated on a 200-hectare plot of land in the wonderfully named Paraiso Valley. Originating in the 1960s, the club has seen several owners, but in 1996 there was a successful buyout by members who now own the clubhouse and golf course. This means that all profits are reinvested into the golf club and course.
Located 15 minutes from Marbella on Estepona’s New Golden Mile, this 18-hole golf course was designed by golfing legend Gary Player, who has over 50 years of creating world-class golf courses under his belt. His environmentally sustainable design has made El Paraiso one of the best courses in Spain and indeed the world. Equally appealing to the eye as the player, featuring elements of challenge, strategically positioned bunkers and breath-taking sea and mountain views.
When you become a member, you gain access to a friendly community of golfers and a packed schedule of competitions, discounts in the pro-shop and restaurant.
Los Naranjos Golf Club (technical game)
Located at the heart of the famous Golf Valley in Nueva Andalucía (just above Puerto Banús) Los Naranjos enjoys a superb position against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Also designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. this par-72 course is a favourite amongst professional players and those who enjoy a more technical game. In addition to the golf course, there is a driving range, golf academy, padel club and a pro-shop.
The club fosters a relaxed atmosphere, and offers some fantastic facilities including a clubhouse with a stunning terrace and restaurant with its own wine cellar and business facilities, so you can comfortably combine business and pleasure. There is also a range of wellness services, including physiotherapy, massage and a hair salon.
It is a great option for both golfers and for those who would like to enjoy a relaxed day or evening out, making the most of the superb amenities.
If you don’t play golf?
Don’t worry if you don’t play, golf is a sociable game on and off the course. One way to create a ready-made social life is to live in a golf resort on the Costa del Sol. Golf property owners enjoy a range of privileges such as preferential rates and all-year-round access. Membership perks can often include access to tennis courts, swimming pools, restaurants, clubhouses and invitations to social events, creating the perfect environment to connect and network with like-minded golfers and homeowners.
If you are unsure and want to ‘try before you buy’ a golf property, instead of joining one club, you could join a golf society like justmarbellagolf.com, giving you access reduced green fees and social events.
If you are ready to make Marbella your home and would like information about golf properties or assistance finding the perfect beachfront property in Marbella, Check out our website www.marbellabeachfront.com or get in touch Call, WhatsApp or email.
