Rio Real

Carretera De Cadiz Km 185 Urb.Río Real s/n 29600
Marbella
Spain

1965

Javier Arana

6,266 yards

72

xxx

Parkland

Río Real, situated three kilometres east of Marbella, was designed by the foremost Spanish golf architect Javier Arana and opened in 1965. Perfect for golfers of all levels, the course is situated in a beautiful valley between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains with a large variety of trees such as eucalyptus, pines, olive trees and palm trees. The name comes from the Real River which crosses the course in various places before flowing into the Mediterranean.



The course is not an easy one, although the layout is mainly flat. To successfully negotiate the 11th hole, for example, golfers' tee shots must cross a ravine into a fairway and before reaching the green, there is also a stream to cross. The front nine is tight, but it opens up on the back with several elevated tees and hole 13 par three requires you to shoot over water. Holes to look out for are the par three 6th, where your tee must be particularly accurate in order to avoid the hillside on the right; the 8th, where the raised green is protected by formidable bunkers; the dogleg par four 10th, the spectacular 11th and the new par three 12th. Particularly spectacular are holes 4 and 5 located by the seashore with splendid views of the Mediterranean, quite a challenge also is the 12th which is surrounded by a lake. Backed by the Sierra Bermeja which reaches a peak of 1,500 metres, forming a natural shelter from the winds, the area enjoys a subtropical climate and even the winter months are extremely mild, offering peaceful conditions to play golf all year round.



In the past year, the club has benefited from several major improvements, namely replanted fairways, enlargement of the cart paths and refurbishment of the club house and its facilities. Judging distances over ravines can be difficult, so playing the course more than once can be a definite benefit. The putting green is located next to the club house and the practice green is a 16 station driving range with the four target greens ranging from 50 to over 200 yards Additional services include classes for groups or individuals, trolley and buggy hire, a driving range, changing facilities and lockers.

Take N-340 between Malaga and Cadiz and exit at km. 185. The course is found: coming from Malaga but before arriving in Marbella take the deviation towards Playa de los Monteros. It is approximately 50 km. west of Malaga.

Cipriano, Avenida Playas del Duque, Puerto Ban?s. Tel: (34) 952 811 077. A well renowned Spanish restaurant that serves excellent seafood.

The Marbella Club Grill, Marbella Club Hotel, Crta. De Cadiz Km. 178. Tel: (34) 952 822 211. Sumptuous ? la carte dinning in one of Marbella?s landmark restaurants. In the summer, enjoy your meal on the elegant terrace.

Pizzería Picasso, Puerto Ban?s. Tel:(34) 952 813 669. Great location, good food and affordable prices -it's the perfect pizza and pasta restaurant for the whole family.

Terra Sana, Next to the casino in Puerto Ban?s. Tel: (+34) 952 906 205. One of the trendier restaurants on the coast frequented by locals. The setting is stylish and warmly decorated, the staff are always friendly and most importantly the food is excellent.

Tai Pan, Ctra. De Cadiz Km. 177, Marbella. Tel: (34) 952 777 893. Simply the best Chinese cuisine on the coast. Try a cocktail form their Polynesian bar before dinning.