Tucked into the Mijas Valley beneath the Sierra de Mijas mountains, Calanova is a parkland course that rewards smart thinking over brute force. It's close to La Cala de Mijas and under 10 minutes from the Mediterranean, so it's an easy fit for a Costa del Sol golf break.
Designed by Ryder Cup man Manuel Piñero, this par 72 measures 6,453 yards, but length alone won't get you round here. You'll score best by keeping the ball in play, picking sensible targets and respecting the hazards. Fairways are framed by trees, water comes into play on key holes and the greens have enough movement to punish lazy reads. Miss the fairway and the angle in can disappear quickly. Get it in the right spots, though, and you'll give yourself plenty of chances. Add in a few elevation changes, and you'll find club selection matters more than the card suggests.
The views out towards the sea are a constant backdrop, especially on crisp winter mornings. If you're building a multi-round itinerary, Calanova pairs neatly with nearby favourites such as La Cala Resort, Mijas Golf and Santana. In my opinion, it's a great "middle day" course, challenging enough to keep the better players interested but fair for mixed-ability groups.
Who is this for?
Mid-handicappers, societies and groups who want a scenic parkland round near the coast.
Who is it best for?
Golfers who enjoy plotting their way round and anyone looking to balance a Costa del Sol trip with a different style to the more exposed layouts.
