Blue Bay Banus 4*

The BlueBay Banus does what it says on the tin: spacious, well-appointed rooms in a setting that prioritises comfort over flash. Accommodation is spread across low-rise blocks, each surrounded by lawns and tropical planting that soften the edges and create a genuine sense of retreat. Rooms are generous in size, decorated in warm terracotta tones and traditional tiled floors that reflect the Andalusian palette without overdoing it. Every room includes a private terrace or balcony, ideal for a morning coffee before an early tee time or a cold beer after a long round.

I like the way it's laid out, you're not battling lifts and long corridors here. The hotel's patios and internal squares encourage a slower pace, which makes a difference when you're trying to unwind between rounds. It's a small detail, but one that actually matters when you've just walked 36 holes.

On-site, the wellness centre offers a solid range of health and beauty treatments, useful if the swing has taken its toll or if your travel companions are looking for something beyond the fairways. The pool area is well maintained and sees plenty of sun throughout the day, making it a natural gathering point for groups who aren't all teeing off at the same time.

Dining at the hotel does the job nicely, though most golfers end up eating down at the marina. Puerto Banús is a few minutes away and offers everything from casual tapas bars to high-end seafood restaurants. The nightlife is famously lively, attracting a glamorous crowd, and the variety means you can tailor the evening to suit the group, whether that's a quiet glass of wine overlooking the yachts or something louder and later.

For golfers, the real appeal is the balance. You're staying somewhere calm and comfortable, but you're never more than a short drive from the courses that define this stretch of coast. Aloha, Los Naranjos, Las Brisas and La Quinta are all within easy reach, and the hotel's location makes it simple to plan multi-course itineraries without backtracking. Best bit for most groups is the value, you can put the savings towards an extra round or two (and yes, the pro shop will still get you).

Bar / Restaurant

8 / 10

Facilities

8 / 10

Location

8 / 10

Room comfort

8 / 10

Staff

8 / 10

Value for money

10 / 10