Malaga Golf

La Cala Resort: leading the way in sustainable golf

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As Tee Times Golf Agency remains dedicated to promoting sustainability, we proudly highlight La Cala Resort's impressive achievements.As Tee Times Golf Agency remains dedicated to promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship, we proudly highlight La Cala Resort’s impressive achievements. Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, La Cala Resort has garnered well-deserved recognition, recently named Spain’s ‘Golf Resort of the Year 2024’ at the IAGTO awards. This accolade reflects their commitment to offering exceptional golf and lifestyle experiences on the Costa del Sol.

Located just 30 minutes from Malaga airport and the renowned destinations of Malaga and Marbella, La Cala Resort stands out for its luxurious amenities and unwavering dedication to sustainability. Owned by FBD Hotels & Resorts, the resort has been at the forefront of eco-friendly practices for 35 years. This commitment is underscored by their recent GEO Certification from the GEO Foundation for Sustainable Golf. This prestigious credential acknowledges their rigorous environmental and social responsibility efforts.

La Cala Resort’s commitment

La Cala Resort’s sustainability journey began in 1991 by installing a regenerated water irrigation system, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to water conservation. This system, funded by the FBD Group, uses reclaimed water from a nearby recycling plant, ensuring preserving precious freshwater resources. Additionally, the resort is transitioning to Bermuda grass on its golf courses, leading to a 20% reduction in water consumption.

In 2022, the resort expanded its sustainability efforts by installing solar panels on maintenance facility roofs, generating 160Kw of clean energy per hour. This initiative reduces the resort’s reliance on grid electricity and supports future energy-efficient upgrades, such as LED lighting.

La Cala Resort has also embraced electric-powered machinery, including green mowers and bunker rakes, to decrease carbon emissions further. With ongoing projects to enhance their sustainability practices, including using lithium-powered carts and reducing turf areas, La Cala Resort is setting a benchmark for eco-friendly golf resorts.

At Tee Times Golf Agency, we believe in the power of golf to inspire positive change. We proudly offer exclusive golf packages to experience La Cala Resort’s exceptional facilities. By choosing us for your Spain golf holidays, you’re not just enjoying world-class golf and luxury accommodations; you’re supporting a resort dedicated to protecting our environment and inspiring others to do the same.

Photos by: La Cala Resort.

Finca Cortesin and the 2023 Solheim Cup: a golf championship venue like no other

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Finca Cortesin, nestled in the charming town of Casares on the Andalusian coast, stands as a unique gem in Tee Times Golf Agency‘s Spanish collection. Spanning 215 hectares, this opulent golf resort is divided into six grand areas: an internationally acclaimed hotel, an exceptional residential offering, a championship golf course, an extraordinary spa and sports area, a stunning beach club, and an exclusive shopping gallery.

The resort’s exceptional site allows easy access to Marbella, the capital of Costa del Sol, and Puerto Banús and Sotogrande, two of the Mediterranean’s most significant marinas, for unforgettable Spain golf holidays. The Malaga International Airport is just a 50-minute drive away, and Gibraltar’s airport is even closer, at a 15-minute drive.

Finca Cortesin Golf Course: a renowned design

Finca Cortesin’s golf course, designed by Cabell Robinson, is world-renowned, having hosted the Volvo World Match Play Championship three times (2009, 2011, and 2012) and, most recently, the Solheim Cup in 2023. This event marked Spain’s first time hosting the prestigious tournament, held from September 18 to 24, 2023. The competition saw Europe’s top female golfers face off against the United States, culminating in a historic tie, the first in the Solheim Cup’s history. The European team retained the cup thanks to Carlota Ciganda’s decisive putt on the 17th hole.

Golf Digest ranked Finca Cortesin among the best golf courses in Spain. The 18-hole course harmoniously integrates the natural Mediterranean landscape, offering an aesthetically stunning and challenging golf experience. The meticulously maintained fairways and greens and the perfect climate provide an ideal setting for year-round golf.

The resort’s hotel, ranked among the world’s top 50, ensures unparalleled luxury. Upon arrival, security guides guests to the appropriate parking area, where service assistants take care of their golf equipment, providing a seamless and opulent experience.

Finca Cortesin and sustainability

Finca Cortesin’s dedication to sustainability is unwavering, earning the prestigious GEO Certified® seal in July 2023. The resort’s golf course sets a benchmark, using 100% reclaimed water from nearby Manilva, surpassing the 50% requirement set by ACOSOL for efficient water use. Advanced water management techniques and weather monitoring systems ensure optimal water usage year-round, reflecting our deep-rooted commitment to the environment.

Finca Cortesin is not just a golf destination but a complete resort experience. It offers natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and world-class golf. It is one of the best high-level experiences for Spain golf holidays with Tee Times Golf Agency.

Photos by: Finca Cortesin & LPGA Tour.

Fam tour: exploring Costa del Sol best golf resorts

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By Jorge Diogo (Director of Sales & Marketing)

From June 9 to 13, the Tee Times Golf Agency booking department team had the privilege of embarking on an exciting fam tour through the stunning Costa del Sol. This tour was not just about work but also about enjoying some of Spain’s best golf courses and hotels. Our crew, consisting of Telma Santos, Marisa Galhardo, Atyla Miranda, Vera Santos and me, had a blast and returned with a wealth of knowledge and unforgettable experiences.

The Costa del Sol, nestled along the southern coastline of Spain, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque landscapes. However, one of its most captivating attractions is its world-class golf courses and luxurious resorts. This region has become a premier destination for golf enthusiasts from around the globe, offering a blend of exceptional facilities and rich cultural experiences.

During the fam tour, our team was dedicated to learning in detail about each golf course and the services of the hotels and restaurants. This commitment ensures that we can provide our clients with the most accurate and beneficial information and services.

The fam tour in detail

We began our adventure at La Hacienda Links Golf Resort, a golf course offering spectacular views towards Gibraltar and Morocco. Besides its natural beauty, we couldn’t resist trying their delicious cheese pie, which is an absolute must!

Then we continue our trip visiting The San Roque Club and La Reserva, enjoying the beauty of its golf courses, which are recognised by golfers worldwide.

Our next destination was SO/ Sotogrande, which made us feel like we were in a charming village. The spacious rooms and incredibly comfortable beds added a touch of luxury to our stay. We savoured an à la carte breakfast on the terrace, with the stunning views of the mountains and sea enhancing our dining experience.

During each day of the fam trip, we visited many golf courses and hotels, and describing each activity in detail is tough. But I want to acknowledge the kindness and friendliness we received in each place.

Hotel Finca Cortesin left us speechless with its opulence and splendour, seamlessly blending modern and classic elements. At Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavis Marbella Resort, we were warmly welcomed with fresh towels, cava, and chocolates, a detail we deeply appreciated.

La Cala Resort is not only a paradise for golf lovers but also for spa enthusiasts. The METT Hotel & Beach Resort captivated us with its location facing the sea and private pools in the suites, offering a luxurious and comfortable experience.

On our last day, we ended by relaxing at the infinity pool at La Zambra, a modern-style hotel with many Andalusian features. We enjoyed a memorable welcome dinner that concluded with an excellent tiramisu prepared right at our table.

Chaparral Golf Club, a privileged place close to the sea and surrounded by a pine forest, welcomed us warmly. We enjoyed a fantastic experience at the Driving Range, followed by an exquisite lunch highlighting the club’s hospitality and culinary excellence.

We are deeply grateful to all the golf clubs and hotels that welcomed us with their warm hospitality. La Hacienda Links Golf Resort and SO/ Sotogrande, your fantastic hospitality made our stay memorable. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Finca Cortesin, El Paraíso Golf Club, Villa Padierna Hotels & Resorts, and Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavis Marbella Resort for their outstanding service. 

During our tour, we visited several premier golf and resort destinations, including The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa, Los Naranjos Golf Club, Atalaya Golf & Country Club, Rio Real Golf & Hotel, La Cala Resort, Santa Clara Golf Club Marbella, Marbella Golf Country Club, METT Hotel & Beach Resort, and Melia Sol Atalaya Park. 

Our thanks to all for hosting our team and sharing your magnificent facilities during the fam tour. With over 30 years of experience at Tee Times Golf Agency, we take pride in offering exceptional golf holidays in Portugal and Spain, ensuring our customers’ satisfaction.