Lauro Golf

The 600-yard 13th sets the tone for the tougher side of Lauro Golf. This par five has out-of-bounds on both flanks, then water waiting by the approach to a small green, making it the course’s highest-rated hole from tee I. Across 27 holes, arranged in three nine-hole loops, the par-72 course gives a group useful choice in how it builds an 18-hole round. Folco Nardi’s original routing works through mature holm oaks, with holes 19 to 27 added by Mariano Benítez. Fourteen lakes and thick planting of Andalusian trees bring water, shade and changing lines of play into the round. It is a course that rewards sensible positioning rather than brute force, and is sufficiently level for a walk.

The uphill 7th on the A nine stretches to 611 yards from tee I, with a carob tree planted squarely in the fairway as a genuine decision point. On the C nine, the 533-yard 27th finishes beside water, with trouble right from the tee and left as the green comes into range. Two holes at the base of the mountain open out towards the Guadalhorce Valley and the Mediterranean, while rabbits, herons, ducks and partridges are regular company around the lakes. Coaching is available for individuals and groups, from newcomers through to tournament players, and dogs may accompany golfers if kept on a lead.

After the round, the clubhouse occupies Cortijo El Paredón, an Andalusian building with restaurant, changing rooms and golf shop. The patio beneath its established ficus tree is a particularly agreeable place for a drink before heading back to Lauro Golf Residencial, beside the course and overlooking the valley. A swimming pool, padel school, horse riding and lawn bowls are also available nearby. Málaga Airport and the coast are both described by the club as only minutes away, making this a straightforward base for a relaxed Costa del Sol golf break.