Golfing under the Spanish sun

Usually, in July, I'm on the beach, or I'm looking for shade at a chiringuito. This year, though, I wanted to see what it was like to golf in these temperatures. It's doable, mind you, but you've got to start early. And a parasol on your golf bag isn't a luxury, believe me. A bottle of water per hole isn't a bad idea either, especially after ten when the sun really starts to burn. ### Baviera Golf  Baviera Golf is near Caleta de Vélez, about a half-hour drive from Nerja. It's one of the busier courses, especially in high season. Lots of locals and tourists, it seemed. The course itself isn't too complicated, pretty flat and well-maintained. I once booked here for 7:30 AM on a Wednesday. That's a must, because after that it really gets too hot to enjoy walking. What stands out: there are lots of palm trees along the fairways; it gives it a tropical feel. The greens here were good, fast, and tight. Sometimes they're sandy here, but that wasn't the case this time. The views over the mountains and the sea are pretty nice, especially on the higher holes. There's a decent clubhouse where you can grab a drink afterward. On a quiet morning, you can easily get a round in here. ### Añoreta Golf  Añoreta Golf is the closest golf course from Nerja, about 20 minutes' drive. It's also the oldest course in Malaga; you can tell by the vegetation. Mature trees and a more authentic atmosphere than the newer courses. The course is hillier than Baviera. That means more climbing and more altitude differences. Luckily, you can rent a buggy here for a few tenners, which makes a big difference in July. There are a few holes with really spectacular views over the Mediterranean Sea. Especially around holes 7 and 17, it's worth stopping to enjoy the view, at least if no one's waiting behind you. The fairways here are a bit narrower, so you need to hit fairly straight. The price here is a bit higher than at Baviera, but the course is more challenging. Don't forget to look back regularly on the high holes; on clear days, you can see the coastline all the way to Malaga City. ### Los Moriscos Golf Club  For a different kind of experience, you should visit Los Moriscos Golf Club, an hour's drive towards Granada, past Almuñécar. This is the only course in Andalusia that's directly on the beach. You can smell the sea and hear the waves roll as you tee off. That's pretty special golf. It's a full 18-hole course, relatively flat, so you can easily walk it without a buggy if it's not too hot. What makes this course so nice is the variety and the constant presence of the sea. It's a parkland course with lots of water features and strategically placed bunkers. I once played here in the afternoon after siesta. It's a bit cooler then, but the sun's still high. Lathering up well and drinking lots is the order of the day. Afterward, you're right on the beach, so a dip in the sea is a perfect way to finish. It's a bit of a drive, but the surroundings make it worthwhile. ### Tips for summer golfing in Nerja Anyone who thought you couldn't golf here in July is wrong. You just have to be smart. Make sure you start really early, preferably before 8:00 AM. And book your tee times online; it often saves money and you're sure to have a spot. Some courses have 'twilight' green fees, which are cheaper and you play in the cooler evening hours, but then you wouldn't want to play all 18 holes. Always bring enough water, at least two liters per round. And a cap or hat isn't a luxury, just like good sunglasses. Even if you're not an avid golfer, the views on most courses here are reason enough to go take a look. It's a nice change from beach life, and a good way to stay active, even in thirty-degree heat. The water temperature in the pools at Aquavelis waterpark in Torre del Mar certainly stays cool enough in July to cool down afterward, should you still have energy for more action. But after a round of golf, a cold beer on a terrace is often enough. That's the perfect way to unwind in the quiet away from the beach crowds. Many clubs also have good practice facilities, driving ranges, and professionals who give lessons if you want to improve your swing. I've had my regular bars here for years where I meet up after a round of golf, and I always bump into familiar faces there. The atmosphere in the clubhouses is usually relaxed and informal. A great way to spend summer mornings. Go early in the morning; then the heat isn't too bad. ### You might also like - [Padel and tennis in Nerja](/en/blog/padel-tennis-nerja) - [Baviera golf for golfers near Nerja](/en/blog/baviera-golf-golfers-near-nerja) - [Padel near Nerja and on the Coast](/en/blog/padel-near-nerja-coast)