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La Cala Resort, nestled in the sun-kissed hills of Spain’s Costa del Sol, is a golfing sanctuary, and its Campo Europa course is a great stop for a fun game of golf. Designed by Cabell B. Robinson, this par-71 layout, stretching to over 6,600 yards, offers a blend of forgiving fairways, strategic challenges, and jaw-dropping scenery.
Located just 30 minutes from Málaga Airport and 20 minutes from Marbella, this course is a must-visit for golfers seeking both enjoyment and a test of skill.
Campo Europa is the newest of La Cala’s three championship courses and stands out for its balance. Wider fairways than its siblings, Campo Asia and Campo America, provide breathing room off the tee, but this is no bomb-and-gouger’s paradise. The course’s defining feature is the River Ojén, which winds through eight holes and feels like a constant to catch inaccurate shots.
The course condition was incredible on my visit, with the firm fairways cut tight, bunkers sharply manicured and greens fast and pure. Lovely.
You are eased gently into the round with a short par 4 to what feels like the widest fairway on the whole property, and a downhill approach that makes a par fairly standard. It is at the 4th where we start to see the drama of the River Ojén: you are required to play over the water twice to secure your par four.
The front nine then opens up a little with some holes with wider landing zones with the driver and some relatively flatter lies for your approaches. The holes work up and down the rolling terrain and you are treated to some pretty insane panoramic views.
Every hole on the back nine is different and challenging. Great golf will allow a score to be built, with less-than-great shots not being punished too severely. We see more of the river and there is a nice variety of narrow strategic holes and shots that can be attacked with more vigour.
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Holes 13, 14, & 15 are some of my favourites: two short 4s and a great par 3 that can make or break your round. Finally, the 18th is a crazy downhill par 4 where a drive on the right line might yield massive distance, and leave a relatively short approach to set up a closing birdie.
Of the three courses at La Cala, Campo Europa is definitely the most generous off the tee, but works well alongside the Campo Asia and Campo America as a different offering. A buggy is recommended due to the course’s spread-out layout and elevation changes, though the scenery makes every transition a pleasure.
La Cala’s facilities complement the on-course experience. The Andalusian-style clubhouse exudes warmth, with friendly staff and superb dining at the Clubhouse Restaurant. The 4-star hotel, with its spa, gym, pool, and course views, makes La Cala a perfect golfing retreat.
Campo Europa at La Cala Resort is a strategic and scenic triumph, offering a rewarding round for golfers of all levels. Its pristine conditioning, dramatic river holes, and world-class amenities make it a Costa del Sol highlight. Pair it with Campo Asia or America for an unforgettable golfing escape. For bookings and details, visit www.lacala.com.
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