A Golfing Adventure in Spain: Eleven Ladies, Sunshine, and Surprises

The promise of sun-drenched fairways, challenging courses, and Spanish hospitality had drawn our group of eleven ladies to the Hilton DoubleTree Islantilla Beach Golf Resort for a week of golf, coaching, and camaraderie. What we didn’t expect was the lingering aftermath of five weeks of relentless rain, the stark contrasts of wealth and poverty just off the fairways, or just how much fun a harmonious group could have—even when the bunkers were more like ponds.

Arrival & The Hilton DoubleTree: A Home Away From Home

From the moment we stepped into the Hilton DoubleTree, it was clear this was going to be a comfortable stay. The rooms were immaculate—spacious, modern, and with beds so comfortable that even the most restless sleeper (or the most aching golfer) could drift off effortlessly. The staff were warm and attentive, always ready with a smile or a recommendation.

But the true star of the hotel? The food.

Each morning began with a buffet-style breakfast that catered to every taste—fresh fruit, pastries, eggs cooked to order, and enough coffee to fuel an army of golfers. Dinner, served from 7pm, was an event in itself. The spread was staggering: hot and cold meats, fresh fish, paella, salads, and an array of desserts that tested even the strongest willpower. The variety meant no two meals were the same, and by the end of the week, we were all secretly hoping the chef might slip us a few recipes to take home.

The Golf: Wet Bunkers, Washed-Out Fairways, and Hidden Challenges

Spain is known for its sunshine, but the weather had other plans in the weeks before our arrival. Five weeks of heavy rain had left the Islantilla Golf Resort’s three nine-hole courses (Blue, Green, and Yellow) in a sodden state. Bunkers were more like water hazards, fairways were soft, and the rough? Let’s just say it was very forgiving—if you didn’t mind squelching through damp grass to find your ball.

Day 1: Blue & Green – A Trial by (Wet) Fire The Blue course, notorious for being the toughest, lived up to its reputation—especially with the added challenge of standing water in unexpected places. The Green course, described as the most "benign" of the three, still demanded precision, but at least it didn’t feel like we were playing in a marsh.

Day 2: Isla Canela Links – A Welcome Change After battling the slightly soggy fairways of Islantilla, the Isla Canela Links course was a breath of fresh (and slightly drier) air. The course played as a true links should—firm, fast, and with enough wind to keep us on our toes. It was here that the group really started to find their rhythm, helped by the coaching sessions each day.

Days 4 & 5: Back to Islantilla – Green, Blue & Yellow Returning to Islantilla, we tackled the Green and Blue courses again, this time with a little more confidence—and slightly drier conditions. By the fifth day, we took on the Yellow course, which, while not as punishing as the Blue, still had enough bite to keep things interesting.

The Coaching: Fine-Tuning Swings & Building Confidence

One of the highlights of the trip was the daily coaching sessions led by myself (Adrian Whitehead). AW Golf Camps are designed not just for playing, but for improving—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player. The group embraced the lessons, tweaking grips, refining swings, and most importantly, laughing through the mishaps.

What made this trip special wasn’t just the golf—it was the harmony of the group. Eleven ladies, all with different skill levels, but all united by a love of the game and a willingness to support each other. There’s something magical about a golf trip where everyone gets along—where bad shots are met with encouragement, good shots with cheers, and where the post-round drinks are filled with shared stories.

The Contrasts: Luxury & Hidden Struggles

One of the most striking moments of the trip came when one of our group ventured into the trees after a wayward shot. Expecting to find her ball, she instead stumbled upon something far more sobering—a makeshift shelter, tarpaulin stretched over branches, with signs of people living there.

It was a stark reminder that just meters away from manicured fairways and multi-million-euro holiday homes (most of which sit empty for ten months of the year, owned by Spanish families who only visit for a short time), there were people living on the edge. The area around Islantilla is filled with vast, empty housing developments, a surreal sight when contrasted with the hidden struggles just off the course.

Rest Days & Exploration

After three days of golf, we welcomed a rest day—some opted for spa treatments, others explored nearby towns. The region is quiet, peaceful, but not bustling with tourist traps. As one of our group quipped, “If you’re not here to golf or lie on a beach, I’m not sure what you’d do!”

Final Thoughts: A Trip to Remember

By the end of the week, we had played four different courses, improved our swings, eaten like royalty, and laughed until our sides ached. The rain had tried to dampen our spirits, but it failed—because when you have great company, great coaching, and great golf, even washed-out bunkers can’t ruin the fun.

For anyone considering an AW Golf Camp, this trip was a perfect example of what we aim for: skill-building, camaraderie, and unforgettable experiences—both on and off the course.

Now, who’s ready for the next adventure?

El Cala Golf Resort

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