A dramatic golf resort, not far from Vera in the south east of Spain
Valle del Este boasts an established 5693m golf course, hotel and spa complex with major housing development set in a spectacular mountainous region.
The par 72 course is in exceptional nick with all of the greens in superb condition, the fairways are beautifully manicured and the bunkers, although a little fluctuating in their consistency, are well sited and neatly trimmed. Around many of the tees the ground is built up with marvellous volcanic boulders topped with lush green grass tantalising in its contrast to the rugged stone. Also, on the fairways there are many examples of where the volcanic rock is protruding from the surface leaving additional hazards for the careless or the unfortunate golfer.
José Canales was the course designer and he has certainly created a dramatic piece of golfing scenery. It is just a slight shame that he has got so much right, and yet nine of the greens are invisible to the golfer who then has to aim at a pin seemingly planted at the end of the horizon. This robs the golfer of one of the most important aspects of the game – that of seeing his or her ball flying towards the green. Whilst blind holes are not uncommon, it does seem careless to have designed so many holes which are simply faceless to the golfer. As a result, it is not a course that I’d personally want to play week in, week out. But it is fun and in exceptional condition.
Green fees are competitively priced, with 18 holes costing €60 and buggies €42. There is also an option to pay for Green Fee Bonds which attract reductions on this rate, so you can buy, for example, 10 green fees for €480 or 50 for €2000 – which are great deals for those who want to stay for a longer period of time. Compared with other courses in the region this represents exceptional value and keeps the course reasonably busy without being overly packed. Pace of play is also relaxed and allows golfers to play an unhurried, yet brisk round of golf. Buggies are highly recommended as the terrain is very undulating and there are several substantial walks between holes.
The practice facilities really are very good. The range is partially covered, providing useful shade from the strong sunshine, with 17 newly-fitted Top Tracer units available for those wishing to practice both inside and outside. This innovative virtual golf technology allows players to analyse their shots in real time, choosing from over 150 iconic courses around the world to help improve their performance as well as enjoy fun game modes where the players can compete in challenges and interactive games. Each mode is designed to suit players of all skill levels, providing a fun and educational experience. A basket of 25 balls costs €4. In the lower section of the range, you can practice from natural grass (depending on the season) and there is an approach area and a practice bunker available. There is also a chipping and putting area for short game practice.
The golf academy has PGA golf professional Kelly Sotiere who provides individual tuition and group classes. The pro shop is well stocked with all the usual top-end brands of clothing, ideal for buying mementoes for a group golf holiday.
The hotel is very well appointed with commanding views across the estate and beyond, with comfortable rooms starting at €114 a night. There are several sprawling terraces ideal for après golf drinks and lunches, and there are a variety of restaurants and shops all designed to allow golfers to best enjoy their days and evenings. The hotel owns the Maraú Beach Club, located about 8 km away on the beautiful sandy beach near Garrucha, where transport can be provided so that an evening can be arranged to visit for dinner. It’s a great set up, with a stunning pool and bar area, along with a large, airy restaurant.
The spa is exceptional with genuinely luxurious treatments available to all and discounted rates for hotel residents. It has pampering down to a fine art. There are also padel and tennis courts and lots of other activities for those more active. One utterly charming section is set aside for croquet. A beautifully prepared large lawn cut and maintained to putting green standard is set with high-quality croquet furniture and available for guests to enjoy a completely different experience on their trip.
As a place to visit, it is well worth while and, perhaps best of all, the staff are genuinely intent on you having a splendid time and enjoying all of the benefits of the resort.
All in all, Valle del Este is an ideal destination for a short golfing break.
For more details visit the website: www.valledeleste.es/en/