Going for Golf

Spain - Head for the Costas

Hacienda del Alamo

The stretch from Denia to Pilar de la Horadada has been branded for more than half a century as the Costa Blanca while the rugged land immediately south, a near desert prior to the tourism boom, rejoices in a less familiar name: the Costa Cálida.
The weather – the key ingredient that always enhances the lives of sunbathers, sightseers and golfers – is ideal in this sun-kissed part of the world. Temperatures can still hit 25 degrees in January and the general pace of life offers the perfect break from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

The Costa Cálida – meaning ‘warm coast’ – extends from El Mojón in the north, almost down to Águilas in the south and includes the Mar Menor, Europe’s largest coastal saltwater lagoon, which is separated from the Mediterranean by La Manga, a 22km-long spit of land upon which the region’s tourism development began.

The golf resort and gated residential development at Hacienda del Alamo can be found just outside the bustling village of Fuente Alamo, roughly equidistant between the city of Murcia and the port of Cartagena. At the heart of the development is a stretched-out, 18-hole course that offers stunning views, in particular of the surrounding mountains. Designed by former British Ryder Cup player Dave Thomas and opened in 2006, this par-72 layout is set among palm, olive and almond trees and features elevated tees and greens, eight lakes that really only threaten seriously wayward shots, and 84 bunkers. Despite its length from the back tees – nearly 7,400 yards, making it reputedly the longest course in Spain – Hacienda del Alamo has several deep bunkers that severely reduce the width of the fairways, a trademark Thomas design. Once the recently planted trees reach their full height and width, it will be impossible to score well unless the driver is behaving itself. However, while length and accuracy are essential off the tee, the large, undulating greens require a lightness of touch and fertile imagination.

Residential zones, including villas on individual plots, townhouses and apartment blocks, are spread around the course. The site also has a six-hole academy course, a state-of-the-art clubhouse and a small commercial centre next to the resort entrance. Plans to add a further 18 holes have been put on ice and even though a hotel has been built, it has not yet opened.

But despite the prevailing inclement financial climate, the plusses still outrank the minuses. The sun shines for 320 days of the year and many retired golfers, from Britain and Germany in particular, have already bought properties there. It is surrounded by national parks and the sea to the east and south is only a 20-minute drive away. Also, the nearby Corvera international airport is reportedly still on schedule to open next year.