If you like to play Golf then you must visit Spain.

Spain is the golfing mecca of Europe. The country offers a winning formula of world class courses in stunning locations and a climate which allows enthusiasts to enjoy their sport throughout the year

From Andalucia's "Costa del Sol " the golf capital of Europe, to the beautiful Catalonian courses nestling in the foothills of the Pyrenees, the Spanish mainland and islands boast an extraordinary range of golfing and golf courses to suit all tastes, abilities and budgets.

Small wonder the country has become one of the world's favourite golf holiday destinations. Spain offers luxury "golf and spa" breaks through to corporate golf packages getaways and beginners' courses combined with sightseeing tours and other activities.

Golf in Spain: the Costa del Sol

Golf is now at the heart of the multi-billion dollar tourist industry which dominates the Spanish costas and nowhere more so than on the Costa del Sol which is king of the crop in terms of golfing heaven. This "sunshine coast" has more than 30 courses and Andalucia as a whole is home to nearly 60 courses, many of which host regular world championships.

The Costa del Sol's many world class clubs include Valderrama - Spain's most famous golf course which hosted the Ryder Cup in 1997 and the World Golf American Express Championships in 1999 and 2000. The club has become the spiritual home of the prestigious Volvo Masters tournament (the European Tour's flagship championship).

Other big names on the long list of top flight Andalucian courses include Torrequebrada (so tough it's called "the Beast"), spectacular Monte Mayor where the mountainside course has magnificent views of the Mediterranean, Gibraltar and North Africa and San Roque where you'll find both the Seve Ballesteros golf academy and an equestrian centre run by Captain Mark Phillips.