Golf in Costa Almeria

The province of Almeria is situated in southeastern corner of Spain to the east of Malaga in the Costa del Sol. It is known as the land of dramatic contrasts for various reasons. Its 144 miles of Mediterranean coastline are dotted with limestone cliffs and volcanic outcrops punctuated by long stretches of sandy beaches and little coves. Further inland the landscapes are mountainous, arid and volcanic. The Tabernas desert, only 25 miles from the provincial capital, bears a close resemblance to the deserts of New Mexico and has even been the backdrop to many 'Spaghetti Western' films.

That aside, golf is very much in the thoughts of the locals and there are seven courses to prove it.

Rob Kirby and legendary South African golfer Gary Player designed the Almerimar course in 1976. It features wide fairways that are bordered by tall trees. The greens are fairly large and are well protected by bunkers, while water comes into play on five holes.

La Envia is a stunning course laid out in a valley and has been largely unaffected by the ongoing developments which have been taking place in the surrounding area. It is one of the easiest courses to get a tee-time on, as the locals don't take too much of an interest in the game.

Cortijo Grande, Playa Serena, Marina, Desert Springs - Europe's first ever Arizona-style golf course - and the new Valle del Este complete what is a truly remarkable region for golf.