Monte Mayor

by Dave
(Surrey National, Surrey)

Sometimes a favourite course is one that combines all the best that golf can offer - great holes, memorable shots, terrific partners for a shared experience etc. No surprise that my favourite course is one played as part of a Golf holiday - Monte Mayor is just outside Marbella, relatively young as built in 1989, but one I would go back to year after year and never master!

The course is built into a mountain side, and combines ravines, streams and the most breathtaking scenery you can imagine. Each hole is a challenge yet beautiful, so whilst you are cursing the tough shots you can't help admire the design and views.

Favourite hole - almost too many to mention but if pushed the par 3 3rd. You drive your buggy high up the mountainside (impossible to walk this course) to a tee in the middle of woods - the initial difficulty is finding the green to aim at! I have played par 3's into valleys before, but this one is a long one - 195 metres off the back tees. The green looks a tiny target, surrounded by woodland and a bunker over the back (and past that, ravine and history for your ball!). A tip - don't go first or even second, you won't have a clue what club to use! The drop zone uniquely is a bare patch in the woods!

Great course, admittedly played with a great group of mates from my club which enhanced the experience but can't wait to go back!