New bunkers, rebuilt tees and more than 300 new trees and palms mark the latest chapter in the evolution of Santana Golf
Santana Golf has carried out one of the most ambitious improvement programmes in its history. The latest phase of works was finished in early September, and the course has been in excellent condition since the high season began in late September.
Set within a former avocado plantation, Santana Golf is a level, easily walkable parkland course designed by Cabell B. Robinson. Across 2025 and 2026, the Club has invested in the playing surfaces, the greenside areas and the landscape.
Better bunkers, firmer tees
The centrepiece has been the renovation of most of the greenside bunkers using the Better Billy Bunker method. Begun in 2025 and extended in 2026, the work has brought superior drainage and more consistent sand conditions to nine holes. Several tees were renovated in 2025, most visibly on the 1st and 16th holes, and seven more have been fully rebuilt in 2026, giving golfers firmer, more consistent surfaces from the first swing of each hole. Several approach areas around the greens have also been resurfaced and tightened up, rewarding a well-struck iron with a truer bounce and a fairer roll.
A richer parkland setting
More than 300 new trees and palms have been planted across 2025 and 2026, deepening the parkland atmosphere. This year, mature palms have also been transplanted to new positions around the course, and a fresh planting of olive trees, a nod to the estate’s Andalusian roots, will mature over the coming seasons into natural framing for the fairways.
“Our goal was to improve drainage, consistency and playability without losing the character that makes Santana Golf special. The course is in excellent shape for the high season, and it will keep maturing in the seasons to come.” – Antonio Márquez, Head Greenkeeper, Santana Golf
An unchanged character
Throughout these programs, the Club has protected its most cherished signature: a rare sense of openness and tranquility. With no surrounding urbanisations and no rooftops crowding the fairways, Santana Golf remains a quiet retreat where the course continues to evolve while its character stays remarkably constant.
For tour operator rates, bookings and group enquiries, please contact the Manager of Santana Golf, Salva Jaime, at manager@santanagolf.com
ARTICLE CREDIT; IAGTO