If you want to combine amazing prices with an incredible golf hotel, Spain is where you need to go. The service is at European levels, the grounds are incredible, the golf is even better and the prices are affordable.

In Costa del Sol in Spain, you'll find the Valderrama Golf Club in Sotogrande, a 6,857-yard, Robert Trent Jones designed golf course that annually hosts the Volvo Masters and has been described as the most visually striking course in continental Europe.

But that's not the only hot course in the region or the country. Costa del Sol is home to 36 courses alone and Spain itself offers hundreds of both public and private courses for you to enjoy. To find out more about the region and the best courses, keep reading.

Andalusia and Coast Line

Costa del Sol is located in Andalusia and it's only a 50 minute flight from Madrid. Along this incredible coastline, there are piles of amazing courses. Aside from the golf though, you can enjoy beautiful Spanish towns, hike nearby hills or simply lie by the beach and relax.

Recommended Golf Courses

For those not up to the demands of Valderrama, try The Golf Club Marbella (011)-(34)-(5) 283-0500, another Robert Trent Jones layout set amid the rolling countryside near this famous resort town; the Real Club de Golf Las Brisas (011)-(34)-(5) 281-0875, a favorite of King Juan Carlos I; or the thrilling Golf Torrequebrada (011)-(34)-(5) 244-2742, where the holes plunge into valleys and follow tortuous routes over heaving hills.

Other Activities in the Area

The Costa del Sol region is bursting with new hotels and even newer condo developments. But, you can still enjoy the beach, marinas and the numerous casinos that pepper the harbors and coasts. If you're feeling bored of golf, then charter a boat for a fishing trip or take an excursion to nearby cities such as Seville.

But no matter what your pleasure, whether it's golf, a cultural adventure, or even a short ferry ride to Morocco from the port town of Algeciras - at day's end, eat and drink heartily, because on the Costa del Sol, particularly at its many beachside restaurants, the no-frills cooking is pescadito sardines and small squid or calamaritos, usually roasted on spits and, best of all, served with famous sweet Malaga wines.

Places to Stay

If you need a golf hotel, Spain has a number of great resorts in the Andalusia region. When your taste is old-school style and luxury, then try the Marbella Club Hotel. On the other hand, if you want something a little more modern and budget-friendly, try the Atalaya Park Golf Hotel and Resort. Finally, for the best in five-star golf, stay at the Fairplay Golf Hotel and Spa.