Destination Golf Spain 2016 * | Page 38

Guadalmina Andalucia » Guadalmina Norte Guadalmina now has a total of 45 golf holes: two 18 hole courses - Guadalmina Norte and Guadalmina Sur - and a new nine hole pitch and putt, and under its new ownership it´s looking better all the time. Considered less difficult than the South Course, the North was designed by Folco Nardi and opened in 1975. Forming two loops of nine holes it starts and ends at the clubhouse. The terrain is more undulating, there are fewer trees, and there is more water which comes into play in the form of lakes at the 7th and 11th holes, and a stream which bisects the course north to south. The 10th descends in a broad swoop to a well bunkered green near the main road, and the short 11th calls for a drive over a small lake. At the par four 17th the river comes into play. Most club competitions at Guadalmina are played on the North Course. Andalucia » Calanova This course lies in Mijas’ golf valley between the sea and the Sierra de Mijas mountain range. It has magnificent panoramic views across the rolling countryside from nearly all holes, and is especially challenging to medium handicap players. It has been constructed to USGA standards with regard to the tees, drainage, bunkers and greens. The fairways are wide with large elevated greens which demand accuracy with approach shots. Strategically placed bunkers and water features scatter the course. 36 Andalucia » Guadalmina Sur Guadalmina South is considered the most difficult of the club’s 45 holes and opened in 1959. Designed by Javier Arana it is the Costa del Sol’s second oldest course and is characterised by wide fairways, free of rough, which wind between mature shade-giving trees. The raised greens are an encouragement to attack the pin. Henry Cotton named the long 6th hole ‘Tipperary’ - It’s a long way to go!. The 10th and 11th are next to the sea. At the latter savour the calm before the storm of the 12th: to the left is a river and to the right a private garden therefore a good, straight 150 metre drive is required. At the 14th a bunker waits to catch anything that falls short and from the tee tunnel vision is an advantage in order to successfully drive between two stands of tall pine. Save strength for consecutive par five’s await at 16 and 17. Andalucia » Dona Julia This course opened in 1989 and is located in Casares. It has matured into a lovely established course, with beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and surroundi ng mountains. It has been constructed to USGA standards with regard to the tees, drainage, bunkers and greens. It is over 6000 metres long, with large greens and variable tee positions. The first 9 holes are more difficult as they wind between local trees, rivers and lakes. The second 9 holes are more straightforward on a gentle incline. Facilities include a driving range and putting green, gym and Jacuzzi.