Designed by the Dutch architect Alan Rijks, La Estancia Golf is reminiscent of the old links, such as St. Andrew's, with nine front holes and nine back holes. There are even two holes sharing the same green (the 4th and the 14th) although in La Estancia Golf there is a large bunker that offers a better definition. The golf course is rather plain and easy to walk although some recent land movements have contributed to a greater sinuosity. There is also a large variety of birds and flora. The newly-planted centennial olive trees, the holm oaks and the pine trees that decorate the landscape will be, without a doubt, more challenging when they grow. In the meantime, they offer wide lanes and a pleasant golf round with birdie options. The absence of buildings around the golf course, rather uncommon these days, offers the emotion of both the game and nature. From any of the three tee marks only that very hole can be seen, which helps the player concentrate on the game. Two lakes and two streams are the water difficulties in the golf course although they do not affect the game too much. However, the wind and the sea breeze will have to be taken into account since La Estancia Golf is only 2.75 kilometres away from the sea and the altitude varies from 14 to 28 metres. The right choice of clubs in the downhill big greens (750 m2 on average) mean special attention is paid to the putter. The sports facilities also include a practice course (120 metres by 280 metres) together with a putting green and a large chipping surface. The Andalusian style club-house is the meeting point for the free shuttle service for players between the golf course and the Melia Sancti Petri Hotel, the only five-star Grand Lux hotel on the Costa del Sol that completes the relaxation and leisure on offer.