Golf Course Review La Cala Golf Resort

Reviewed by: Brian Smith (hcp: 17) Date: 15-01-2003 Rating: 5.53

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La Cala - The North course or, as we preferred to call it The North Face. I think an error was made when this course was built. It is possible to both golf and ski in the area but, unfortunately, there is no snowfall in La Cala and, as a result, the piste that is the 18th is completely wasted. Once on the course the player is lulled by the opening 3 holes which are plain enough and occupy a large field below the hotel. Once these are completed the work begins. From the 4th onwards, via a completely unplayable, in any sort of wind, par 5 (which they have at least had the decency to make SI 1) you climb, and climb, and climb and climb. Until you reach the 18th when you go down, down, down, down and down. Added to the interest generated by all this mountaineering there is the added joy of the raised greens. Every green is raised, every approach shot falls just short or rolls off the steep greenside banks; be prepared to chip onto each and every green (the flags are, as you would expect, obscured). My advice? Don't play the course but if you do, undertake a course of hill walking or rock climbing first and then buy a hardwearing lob wedge. The South Course - not quite as bad. The only really good thing about La Cala is the hotel which is an architectural joy with a stunningly good pool and truly delightful in its amenities. Stay in La Cala - play somewhere, anywhere (well, not quite anywhere, Alhaurin for one must be avoided at all costs), else.

Golf Course Review - La Cala Golf Resort