Rio Real Golf on the Costa del Sol Golf, Spain

Rio Real Golf on the Costa del Sol Golf, Spain is one of the oldest golf courses on the Costa del Sol, the course was designed by Javier Arana and opened to the public in 1965. It has stood the test of time remarkably well as its still one of the best examinations of golf on the Costa del Sol Golf.

Situated in a beautiful valley between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains the golf course has a great variety of pines and palm trees. The course itself is a traditional design with some tight driving holes which are lined with mature pines left and right, however there are lots of opportunities to open your shoulders on the par fives.

Rio Real is a pretty long course but don't let that put you off - it's flat, easy to walk and the open fairways will encourage you to really go for it with your driver.

The front nine is quite tight, but it opens up on the back, and has several elevated tees. There are many established trees lining the fairways. Judging distances over ravines can be difficult, so playing the course more than once can be a definite benefit! Hole #13 is a pretty par 3 where you must shoot over water.

The River, from where the golf course gets its name, which crosses the course several times comes into play immediately short of the green on more than one occasion proving equally as much a mental hazard! Although a tricky golf course in places there are many birdie opportunities if you can drive your ball in the fairway.

The golf club house is adjoined with the Rio Real Golf Hotel which has a beautiful terrace overlooking golf course, making it a great place for drinks and a light lunch after your round.

In the past year the club has benefited from several major improvements, namely replanted fairways, enlargement of cart paths and refurbishment of the clubhouse and its facilities which include - Private lessons, Buggy hire, Driving range, Changing facilities & lockers, Club hire, Putting Green, Bar & Restaurant, Pro Shop, Complimentary car parking.

For more information about Rio Real Golf including Scorecard, Course Plan, Directions and Map visit - http://www.costadelsolgolf-web.com/index.html

Richard is a keen golfer that has lived on the Costa del Sol for a number of years and has a good insight to golf in this area. Many of his articles and drawings have been published to view a complete guide to golf on the Costa del Sol including Course Details, Scorecards, Course Plans, Directions and Maps visit his Website - http://www.costadelsolgolf-web.com/index.html