Spain’s Premier Championship Golf Destination
Introduction
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Andalusia’s rolling hills, Finca Cortesín Golf Club is a world-class golf destination that seamlessly blends luxury, challenge, and natural beauty. This elite Spanish golf course has become a must-play venue for professionals and amateurs alike, boasting immaculate fairways, strategic bunkering, and expansive greens. Recognized globally for hosting multiple professional tournaments, including the 2023 Solheim Cup, Finca Cortesín is more than just a golf course—it’s an unforgettable experience.
General Information
Full Name & Location
Finca Cortesín Golf Club is located in Casares, Málaga, Spain, nestled in the stunning Andalusian countryside near the Mediterranean coastline.
Year of Establishment
The club opened in 2007, quickly establishing itself as one of Europe’s premier golfing venues.
Course Designer
Finca Cortesín was masterfully designed by Cabell B. Robinson, a renowned American golf course architect known for integrating natural landscapes into his designs. The course was later enhanced by Manuel Piñero, a Ryder Cup legend, to further refine the strategic elements.
What Makes Finca Cortesín Golf Club Unique?
Unique Features
Finca Cortesín is a championship-level course offering a perfect balance of difficulty and enjoyment, making it a standout among Spain’s best golf courses.
- Course Type: Parkland with Mediterranean influences
- Number of Holes: 18
- Par: 72
- Length: 6,802 meters (7,482 yards)
- Signature Landscape: Panoramic sea views, rolling fairways, native vegetation, and breathtaking mountain backdrops
Standout Holes & Course Highlights
- Hole 13 (Par 5): A strategic risk-reward hole that tempts long hitters to go for the green in two, while bunkers guard the approach.
- Hole 18 (Par 5): A dramatic finishing hole with a sloping green complex, testing players’ nerves in championship play.
- Fast & True Greens: One of the defining characteristics of Finca Cortesín is its large, undulating greens, which roll at Masters-level speeds.
Tournaments & Legacy
Prestigious Events Hosted at Finca Cortesín
Despite being a relatively young course, Finca Cortesín has already cemented its place in golf history by hosting major international tournaments:
- 2023 Solheim Cup – The first-ever Solheim Cup held in Spain
- Volvo World Match Play Championship (2009, 2011, 2012) – A globally recognized event that brought elite golfers to the course
- European Tour Events – Featured regularly in Spain’s premier golf calendar
Iconic Moments at Finca Cortesín
- 2023 Solheim Cup Thriller: Team Europe staged a dramatic comeback to retain the Solheim Cup in one of the most gripping finishes in tournament history.
- 2012 Volvo World Match Play: Nicolas Colsaerts defeated Graeme McDowell in an unforgettable duel, showcasing the course’s ability to host high-pressure match play drama.
Champions of the Last Five Years
Recent Tournament Winners at Finca Cortesín
2023 Solheim Cup (Women’s Team Event)
- Winners: Team Europe (Tied 14-14, retained the cup as defending champions)
Volvo World Match Play Championship (Previously Hosted at Finca Cortesín)
- 2012 – Nicolas Colsaerts
- 2011 – Ian Poulter
- 2009 – Ross Fisher
World-Class Facilities & Membership
Luxury Clubhouse & Hospitality
Finca Cortesín is more than just a golf course; it’s a five-star resort experience. The exclusive clubhouse and facilities include:
- Fine dining at Kabuki Raw, a Michelin-starred restaurant
- Luxurious locker rooms and member lounges
- Exclusive spa and wellness center
- Private event spaces for corporate outings and tournaments
Membership & Green Fees
- Green Fees: Range from €275 – €350 per round
- Membership: Ultra-exclusive; limited availability with a strict application process
- Guest Access: Visitors can play, but tee times must be reserved in advance
Golf Academy & Practice Facilities
- State-of-the-art driving range with premium range balls
- High-tech short game area with bunker and chipping zones
- Coaching from top European PGA professionals
Golfing Legends & Course Records
Notable Players Who Have Competed at Finca Cortesín
Some of the biggest names in golf have walked these fairways, including:
- Jon Rahm
- Rory McIlroy
- Sergio Garcia
- Justin Rose
- Ian Poulter
- Nicolas Colsaerts
Course Records
- Lowest Round: 62 (-10) – Held by a European Tour player during the Volvo Match Play Championship
- Longest Drive Recorded: 412 yards – Hit during the 2012 Volvo World Match Play
Fascinating Facts & Little-Known Secrets
- One of Europe’s Longest Courses: At 7,482 yards, Finca Cortesín is one of Spain’s longest golf courses, challenging even the best pros.
- Eco-Friendly Fairways: The course is one of Europe’s most sustainable, using ultra-efficient irrigation systems and environmentally friendly maintenance practices.
- Designed for the Solheim Cup: The course underwent modifications before 2023 to enhance match play drama, including new pin positions and bunker reshaping.
Why Every Golfer Should Play Here
A Must-Play Championship Course
Few courses in the world offer the breathtaking scenery, strategic challenges, and five-star luxury that Finca Cortesín delivers. Here’s why it’s a bucket-list golf destination:
- World-Class Design: A Cabell B. Robinson masterpiece, offering a perfect blend of playability and difficulty
- Tournament-Tested: From the Solheim Cup to the Volvo World Match Play, this course has hosted elite golf battles
- Stunning Andalusian Setting: Views of the Mediterranean Sea, rolling hills, and white-washed Spanish villages make every round spectacular
- Exclusive Luxury: A five-star resort experience with unparalleled service, dining, and spa facilities
Finca Cortesín isn’t just a golf course—it’s an experience of a lifetime. Whether you’re a competitive golfer seeking championship-caliber challenges or an enthusiast looking for a luxury golf retreat, this Spanish gem is a destination that every golfer should play at least once.
