**La Hacienda Alcaidesa Links Golf Resort, San Roque, Spain: A Unique Blend of Challenge and Scenic Beauty**
Situated in the picturesque town of San Roque, La Hacienda Alcaidesa Links Golf Resort is a golfing destination that offers a unique blend of challenge and beauty. With two golf courses and 36 holes, this resort stands out as a premier location for golfing in Spain.
**Course Layout & Design**
Designed by Peter Alliss and Clive Clarke, the Links Course at La Hacienda Alcaidesa meanders through mature landscapes, offering views of Gibraltar and Africa. Despite not being a traditional links course, it does have a seaside heathland feel. The resort also features a second course, the Heathland Course, which lacks the visual appeal of the Links but offers a fine layout featuring some very testing holes.
Both courses are well-maintained, with fantastic fairways and bunkers that are a delight to play. The greens are well-kept, though the pace of play can be slow, as the stewards don't seem to bother much.
**Suitability & Challenges**
La Hacienda Alcaidesa Links Golf Resort is relatively easy to play from yellow tees, but strong winds can make it quite challenging. The resort caters to a wide range of skill levels, with the Links Course being the pick of the two for most players.
**Standout Aspects**
The standout aspect of La Hacienda Alcaidesa Links Golf Resort is undoubtedly its breathtaking views. From the stunning vistas of Gibraltar and Africa on the Links Course to the impressive marina and nature reserves nearby, the resort offers an unmatched visual feast.
The resort also offers a Buggy bar, although it doesn't seem to drive around much, and the prices can be high. The clubhouse amenities are decent, though not particularly standout.
**Overall Recommendation**
Overall, La Hacienda Alcaidesa Links Golf Resort offers a satisfying golfing experience. The course layout is engaging, the views are spectacular, and the maintenance is commendable. However, the slow pace of play and high prices at the Buggy bar can be points of improvement.
On a five-star scale, considering all factors, I would rate La Hacienda Alcaidesa Links Golf Resort a solid 4 stars. It's a must-visit for any golf enthusiast visiting San Roque, Spain.
