Mijas Los Olivos

At Los Olivos, the real examination begins on the approach. Fairways are tighter than those on neighbouring Los Lagos, mature olive trees press in along the playing corridors, and the raised greens are smaller, sloping targets that reward a controlled strike from the right side of the fairway. This is a par 70 Robert Trent Jones Snr design with four par threes, 11 par fours and three par fives, and it asks for considered club selection rather than a driver on every tee. Casuarinas and fig trees add to the enclosed, parkland feel, while limited water keeps the emphasis on shaping shots, judging distance and leaving the ball below the hole.

The playing surfaces are a useful part of its character. Bermuda 419 covers the tees, fairways and rough, with Penncros grass on the greens and approaches. It is a course for golfers who enjoy working the ball into position and who trust their short game when a green is missed. A buggy makes sense on a warm Costa del Sol afternoon, and the club’s Yamaha fleet comes with touchscreen GPS showing yardages and hole layouts. Those walking can use GPS electric trolleys or three-wheel manual trolleys, while Cobra rental sets are available with a choice of shaft options. Toilets at the 5th and 17th are a welcome practical touch during the round.

After golf, the old Andalusian farmhouse clubhouse provides an easy place to settle in over lunch or a drink on the large terrace. The restaurant serves Spanish, local and international dishes, including a daily set menu, from 8.30am until 8pm each day. Set in Las Lagunas de Mijas, Los Olivos works particularly well for a holiday built around two contrasting rounds at the same club, with Los Lagos alongside for a different test.