CASERAS (Spain) — The first-tee at the Solheim Cup is unlike anything else. There has never been anything like the first-tee experience that players will have in Spain. Over 1,000 fans will fill an elevated grandstand overlooking a drivable Par 4 with plenty of risk/reward, and views of sea.
Laura Davies, vice captain of the European team, said: “I don’t think everyone will do it.” The 280-yard downhill tee shot requires players to carry an entire lake. “But I believe 80 to 90% will give it a try.”
The luxury of Finca Cortesin behind the scenes will remain in the minds of players for many years.
Stacy Lewis said that compared to previous years, this was the most comfortable and convenient trip they’ve ever been on.
Lewis visited the resort during a site-visit, but she will be staying at Hotel Cortesin with her team for the first ever time this week.
Lewis, a guest at the spa, was amazed to discover a snow-filled room. The snow room was being cleaned the day we visited, but it still had real snow.
The snow cave is located in the spa. Finca Cortesin.
Finca Cortesin is located in southern Spain, in the Costa del Sol area. The hotel was opened in 2007. Travel + Leisure named Finca Cortesin the best resort in Spain in 2020 and second in Europe.
Finca Cortesin is a small property with 67 suites. The place has a special feel, thanks to the unique details, such as the old convent’s ornate floors and doors.
Visit the @FINCACORTESIN luxury resort, which will host the #TheSolheimCup next September in Spain. This property is often rated as the best hotel in Spain. More on golf will follow!) pic.twitter.com/g6NSXONzJ8
— Beth Ann Nichols (@GolfweekNichols) May 26, 2023
The tropical courtyards, as well as the sweeping views of the sea from your private balcony will give you a sense calm after a stressful week. A walk in the rose gardens under the arches can help clear your mind if you have a few minutes to spare.
Each restaurant on the property offers a unique, elegant experience. From the taste of Spain in El Jardin de Lutz where the millennial trees are a sight for sore eyes, to REI – the hotel’s signature Asian restaurant combining traditional Asian cuisine with Mediterranean influences. The 14-course Tasting Menu is a culinary adventure.
Francisco de Lancastre David is the general manager of the resort for golf and leisure. He said that European captain Suzann had reserved the Beach Club for an evening celebration. The breathtaking oasis is located less than a mile away from the hotel and features an infinity swimming pool with a view of the sea.
De Lancastre David, who has 80 golf courses in the area, said that the golfing season (September to mid-November followed by March to May) is essential to extending the summer leisure season in the region.
Finca Cortesin, located in Sotogrande, is ideally situated for those who wish to visit Spain after visiting Scotland or Ireland. Valderrama was the venue of the 1997 Ryder Cup and five other top-10 Spanish courses are also found there.
He said, “We have by far the best hotel in the area.”
Critics are in agreement.
View of one of the resorts courtyards. (courtesy Finca Cortesin)
The first American players to arrive in Spain will be arriving on Sunday. Lewis has declared Monday as a day off, but she believes that all 12 of them will make their way to the golf course.
While the Americans are getting a crash-course in preparation for the competition Sept. 22-24, Ireland’s Leona McGuire was part a European delegation that visited Finca Cortesin in November last year.
Maguire is looking forward to playing for the first home crowd in Inverness. Travel restrictions kept European fans away two years ago.
Maguire, a southern Spaniard, said: “I know that there are a lot Swedish who winter there.” There are also a number of Irish who do the same.
The clubhouse is a short distance from the hotel’s lobby. However, players have their own entry to the locker rooms.
Davies said that staying on site is always more pleasant. The bus rides are fun, but the best part is when you get off the course, head to your room, and then go down to the team area.
The resort is less than an hours drive from the Malaga Airport.
Volvo World Match Play was held on the golf course designed by Cabell Robinson in 2009, 2011, and 2012. The hilly terrain of Finca Cortesin is ideal for players who enjoy and are familiar with Bermuda grass.
The course is a ball striker’s paradise. As de Lancastre David points out, it’s important to be able to move the ball in both directions, even on the same hole.
The course will have a dramatic opening, which is usually the fourth hole. The reordering only affects the first six golf holes.
Davies said, “It’s a great match-play course. It is very fair.” If you make a good shot, then you will be rewarded. If you miss, then you will be on top of the mountain. Good luck. There is plenty of space. The fairways are wide.
The 17th hole of Finca Cortesin.
The elevation changes and distances between the green and tee are a challenge to spectators. This makes it difficult for those who want to watch two rounds.
Lewis stated that the layout of the course was short enough for her to be able to pick the players who were playing best without having to worry about the length of the tee shot or the penalizing rough.
The first Solheim Cup to be played on Spanish soil will see Team Europe arrive at Finca Cortesin with the goal of winning three consecutive Solheim Cups. Next week’s broadcast is likely to be the first time many people see this lush Mediterranean property.
One of the most luxurious getaways in the game.
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Here are some pictures of resorts:
