El Chaparral revisted

In the mid-nineties, El Chaparral had become one of the more popular courses east of Marbella, with it's distinctive lay-out of six par threes, six par fours and six par fives, which many consider to be the perfect balance for a par 72 golf course. Problems concerning ownership of the land, not to mention financial difficulties, forced it's closure and within a few years, the fairways had reverted to wilderness. In fact, travellers using the road from La Cala village to Cerros del Aguila, which passes through the middle of the course, would be unaware that a golf course had ever existed there. The re-birth of El Chaparral began late in 2004 and the course was duly re-opened in March this year to popular acclaim, under the management of the Aymerich group. The layout remains exactly the same as the original design, but with many improvements. The course is immaculately maintained, the greens being among the truest and fastest on the coast. A recent addition is the state-of-the-art driving range and golf academy with it's two tier bays and interesting target areas. El Chaparral also boasts one of the best clubhouses, which fortunately was safeguarded against vandalism during a decade of closure. The restaurant and terraces overlook the 1st. tee and 18th. green so that one can watch the action whilst imbibing a well-deserved gin & tonic. El Chaparral is good value at 70€ a round during the high season, although a buggy is recommended, as there are some long walks between greens and tees. Buggies are reasonably priced at 30€ for 18 holes. The course is already very popular, so reservations are essential, the earlier the better. You can reserve start times at El Chaparral and more than 40 other courses through Golf Leisure Breaks S.L. by calling 952 582 943.