Mijas Golf International is the most popular golf complex in Spain and rising fast throughout Europe comprising of two 18 hole courses, Los Lagos and Los Olivos. Los Lagos "The Lakes" as the name suggests has water features on nine holes and was the first course to be constructed under the direction of Mateo Pérez Robles in 1976, a pioneer of the Costa del Sol tourist industry. This course presents wide fairways with numerous lakes, which are the water hazards at the 9th and 18th holes, and many strategically placed trees which protect the large greens. At 6,367 metres this course is the longer of the two and was designed by the American Robert Trent Jones Sr and it could be said that he wanted to present a course specially for amateurs, however it still presents a challenge for experienced players. Los Lagos is a ground course with wide fairways and few tree obstacles, but is defended by many bunkers and nine lakes which can easily trap the ball, it is a course with soft movement and large greens. When this course proved to be so successful it was decided to create a second and so the new course, Los Olivos, was designed. Los Olivos "The Olive Trees" was originally constructed 1983/4, although it has recently been refurbished by Cabell Robinson. This course lies on a smaller piece of land and is different from Los Lagos as the greens are smaller with undulations, well protected by bunkers and with a large number of olive trees strategically situated around the fairways, which demand a strong and straight drive from the player. The main features which distinguish this course from "The Lakes" are the smaller undulating and well defended greens, numerous trees, and fewer water hazards. If Los Lagos is based on hazards of water and sand, Los Olivos is strategic narrow tree lined fairways and elevated greens. Both courses pay homage to the architect's philosophy "difficult Par, easy Bogey", as they have very little rough, plenty of water and are relatively flat. Handicap Handicap Certificate required Men's par 28 Women's par 36 Dress Code Jeans, collarless shirts, casual/trainers, tee shirts and football shorts are not permitted at any time Tracksuits may not be worn when playing golf Soft spikes only There are another 70 courses on the Costa with plans for a further 18, so there is plenty of choice. Valderrama is about a 70 minute drive. Byblos Hotel (5*) the most prestigious hotel on the Costa del Sol is located on the golf course and La Tamisa hotel (4*) is situated beside Sitio del Golf, both have superb bars and restaurants. Golf on the Costa