Ten minutes from the heart of Marbella, Santa Maria Golf & Country Club is brilliantly placed on the Costa del Sol. From the opening holes you get the two views you've come for: the Sierra Blanca mountains inland and the Mediterranean glittering out towards the coast.
The big win here is the setting. The course runs through a proper pine and cork oak forest and, for the most part, you're not weaving between villas. If you like the feeling of playing in a landscape rather than around a housing estate, you'll notice the difference straight away.
It's widely seen as one of Marbella's most emblematic layouts, mainly because it stays true to its woodland character throughout the round. Fairways are tree-lined and accuracy matters more than trying to overpower it. Expect plenty of tee shots where a 3-wood or hybrid makes more sense than driver, especially if you're loose off the tee. The pines will make you pay.
There's enough movement in the land to keep it interesting, with gentle elevation changes that add strategy without turning the round into a hike. It's also not the longest track on the coast, so good course management and a bit of shaping off the tee go a long way, especially if you're playing from the back markers.
Who is this for?
Golfers and groups after a quality Marbella golf break with a scenic, woodland feel, plus quick access to the town's restaurants, nightlife and beaches.
Who is it best for?
Mid-to-low handicappers who enjoy placement golf and anyone wanting a quieter, more natural round away from the built-up feel of some Costa del Sol venues.
