Cabopino Golf

The 3rd gives a clear sense of how Cabopino Golf Marbella plays. This short par 4 starts from an elevated tee, with the Mediterranean in view, but a deep bunker and a two-tier green make the approach far more exacting than the distance suggests. Juan Ligués Creus’s 18-hole design moves through pine-covered hills above the coast, using raised tee boxes, changing fairway levels and greens with distinct contours to keep you thinking from the opening shot. It is an unusual par 80, made up of three par 3s, two par 5s and 13 par 4s, so there is a pleasing rhythm of positional golf and scoring chances.

Water becomes particularly important over the inward stretch. The 13th is a par 3 with its green almost surrounded by water, while the 15th asks for a tee shot across a lake. Between them comes the 14th, the longest hole at 499 yards from the back tees. An artificial river is in play from the drive onwards, then water sits beside the green, making it a hole where a sensible lay up can be as valuable as a bold second. Broad-canopied pines frame several fairways and the course is kept in playing condition throughout the year, which makes it a useful choice for winter golf on the Costa del Sol. A driving range, academy tuition, buggy and trolley hire, caddie master service and buggy bar cover the practical side before and during the round.

LUMA sits beside the 1st hole, with views over the course towards the sea, and is a relaxed place to settle after 18 holes. The kitchen works with seasonal local produce in Mediterranean dishes, while cocktails suit a later finish on the terrace. Changing rooms and free parking are on site. Málaga Airport is around 30 minutes away, keeping transfers straightforward for a short break based in the Marbella area.