+Santa María Golf is in a celebratory mood this October, marking yet another milestone in the Marbella club’s stellar history. Local authorities, golf and tourism industry representatives, property developers and other business associates were invited to a special ceremony followed by an exquisite gourmet lunch in the 19th Hole restaurant overlooking the picturesque first hole.
Managing director Ali Saudi presented mementos of the occasion to Marbella mayor José Bernal and Ángel de la Riva, president of the Royal Andalucian Golf Federation, both of whom paid warm tribute to the club’s contribution to golf and Marbella society in general over the past 25 years. Recalling the club’s complex history, Ali Saudi said there had been some adverse moments, but mostly exceptional experiences and outstanding achievements, and he stressed that the club remained committed to excellence and to offering service and hospitality of the highest quality to both members and visitors. 
More than one million golfers have been welcomed to Santa María Golf since its official foundation on 25 October 1991.
Today, the club has a truly international membership with a wide range of different nationalities, highlighted by British, Germans, Norwegians and Danish.
The clubhouse is located in an impressive two-storey 19th century Spanish cortijo (country house) and is surrounded by extensive mature gardens. The outdoor facilities include two tennis hard courts, two practice putting greens and practice nets. Inside the main clubhouse are the administration offices, a billiards room and a large lounge area. Built a few years ago, the Hoyo 19 (19th Hole) restaurant offers stunning views over the golf course, while the well-stocked pro shop and changing rooms recently underwent a major refurbishment. The benefits available to members include peak tee times, club competitions (normally on Wednesday and Sundays) and league matches.
There are 18 Honours Board competitions each year, with the club championship played over two days. Other benefits include social activities and organised away days to other golf venues. Dinner dances are held at Easter in conjunction with the 007 Cup sponsored by Maggie Bond, and other events take place on Captain’s Day and during the club championship. Also available are tennis, billiards, sauna and restaurant discounts. There are several membership options available including basic and unlimited. The club’s professional offers private or group coaching in English and Spanish, and club repairs/re-gripping is also available.
Santa María Golf & Country Club’s golf course winds through a valley, before climbing up the mountain. One of the highlights is the 7th, a par-3, 200-yard monste reached from raised tees and followed by a dogleg right par-5 with water on the right. Also worth mentioning is the 11th, which starts from yet another raised tee, skirts a lake and ends at a green with a waterfall on the right. The variable terrain means that the first nine holes are shorter and more complicated, and the second, longer and more relaxing.
