San Roque

A refined challenge in the Sotogrande hills. The Old Course at San Roque is elegant, strategic, and steeped in European Tour history.

Slope Rating

140

Par

72

Yardage

7,104

The Old Course at San Roque Club is a classic of the Sotogrande region – a polished, tree-lined championship layout that has hosted the Spanish Open and served as a long-time venue for European Tour Q-School finals. Designed by Dave Thomas in 1990 and recently renovated by original co-designer and Ryder Cup legend Seve Ballesteros, the course blends thoughtful design with elite-level presentation. Tight fairways framed by cork and oak trees place a premium on accuracy, while elevated greens and deep bunkering demand crisp iron play. The routing rises and falls through a quiet, inland setting with water coming into play on several holes – most memorably the par-3 15th and par-4 17th. The renovation has modernised the greens, improved bunker positions, and sharpened the visuals while preserving its old-world character. The Old Course is less dramatic than nearby Valderrama or Finca Cortesin – but it’s no less pure. It rewards smart, strategic golf and has long been a favourite of pros seeking a true test without the fanfare.

Designer

Dave Thomas & Tony Jacklin (1990); renovated by Seve Ballesteros & European Golf Design (2021)

Opened

1990

Tee time availability

Fair

Special information

Private feel with public access via the resort. Bookings advised. Recently renovated to championship standard.

Tiger’s best round

Rory’s best round

Mens course record

65 – achieved during European Tour Q-School

Ladies course record

Round duration

4 hours 30 minutes

Caddy guide

Optional – most players use GPS buggies; caddies available by request

Buggies

Available and recommended – hilly terrain with long walks between holes

Smart shot placement is critical. It’s not about length – it’s about angles. Fairways are narrow and greens well defended. Work the ball both ways and manage risk on approach.

Play to the wider parts of the fairways and avoid forcing shots. Use course knowledge to stay out of trouble. Greens are receptive but demand good distance control.

It’s playable if you avoid the trees. Use the front tees, and focus on solid contact and sensible course management. Enjoy the tranquillity – there’s no pressure here.

Green speed

10 – smooth, true, and well-maintained post-renovation

Wind

Inland setting means wind is less severe, but it can swirl in the valleys

Pace of play

Well organised – resort-managed pace with player support staff on course

Nerves on the first tee

Low – generous landing zone and peaceful surroundings help ease you in

Clubhouse

Elegant and low-key – perfect for post-round relaxation and fine dining

The 17th is a superb dogleg par-4 with water left and a tight green. The 15th is a short par-3 with a narrow green and deep bunkers. The 9th, a long par-4 into a plateau green, finishes the front nine with a punch.

Warm and dry for most of the year – spring and autumn offer ideal playing conditions. Summer heat is manageable with morning or twilight rounds. Drainage is excellent.