The course and its many challenges at Finca Cortesin proved invaluable during a recent round of golf. As expected, the course was in incredible condition, with fairways like carpets and greens running at about 12.5 on the stimp. It was so good that it could have hosted the Solheim Cup again that day.
The round started at what is normally the fourth hole, one of the course’s signature holes – a downhill 280-yard par 4 that wraps around a lake. The course features elevation changes, doglegs, beautiful views, and plenty of variety. A food break on the 10th tee fueled me to make a birdie on the stunning par 3, which plays downhill with a backdrop of mountains.
All of the short holes at Finca Cortesin are superb, with the 12th being a favorite where Denmark’s Emily Pedersen once enjoyed a hole-in-one. The par-4 15th is visually stunning and one of the toughest on the course, requiring a drive over native land before turning uphill and left. Nacho’s guidance helped me hole a 5-iron from 180 yards on the par-four 16th for a rare eagle.
After trying to go for eagle-birdie on the par-3 17th, I ended up in a bunker. The dogleg-left par 5 finisher provides a challenge with a well-guarded green surrounded by bunkers.
After the round, I enjoyed a relaxing afternoon at Finca Cortesin’s impressive spa, which features various amenities including a steam room, Turkish bath, sauna, ice bath, and more. The spa also offers Oriental-themed treatments, a 25m indoor saltwater pool, a Technogym, Snow Cave, and outdoor swimming and racquet sports facilities.
Following dinner in a private villa on the estate, we were entertained by the hotel’s resident band back at the main building. The hotel, designed by Duarte Pinto Coelho, has a classic Andalusian feel with luxurious accommodations and attentive staff.
The following day, we played the course again, this time as regular players. It provided a different but equally memorable experience. After another visit to the spa and a farewell dinner at REI, a restaurant specializing in Japanese cuisine with a Mediterranean influence, I headed back home, reflecting on the luxurious and welcoming experience at Finca Cortesin.
