Course Information.
The Real Club de Campo de Malaga golf course (also known as "The Parador")
is the oldest in the province of Andalucia. It first opened its doors
for business in 1925 and the King of Spain attended the inauguration
ceremony. Back then it was one of only four courses in Spain, today
it still compares well with most of the newer layouts found along the
Costa.
The course is located about ten kilometres from the capital Málaga,
in the heart of the Costa del Sol and very close to the mouth of the
Guadalhorce river an area that is protected given the variety of species
of birds that live there.
Designed by Tom Simpson, the golf course is part links with natural
lagoons formed by salt water and part parkland where the holes form
avenues between stands of well-established trees. It is a refreshing
change from the American style courses that form the majority along
the Costa. Skirting the Mediterranean the course offers great views
out to Sea, the direction from which the challenging winds affect a
number of the holes.
"A refreshing mix of Parkland and Links style golf that has proven
to be a popular choice over 7 decades."
Although the course is flat with wide fairways, the trees make things
more difficult and flowering bushes or pine trees guard many greens.
Water hazards, in the shape of 3 natural salt water lagoons come into
play on 4 of the holes. Hole 12 is a good example of lurking danger
with its stand of trees to the right which requires a perfect drive
to reach the green in two.
The Real Club de Campo de Malaga is still owned by the state run Parador
hotel chain. The course is held in very high esteem, remaining a firm
favourite in many golfing circles.