With Andalucia being such a relaxed part of the world - ruled by a "mañana, mañana" attitude - it may be hard to believe that people do actually work here as opposed to just coming on holiday to play golf!

For those people with little time to spare to play golf there are many new courses springing up to cater for their needs. Got a couple of hours? Play some executive golf!

Magna Marbella Golf

EAT GOLF! will be looking into some alternative short courses in future issues, but here we start with the recently opened Magna Marbella Golf - a nine hole, par 29 course including excellent practice facilities and driving range with golf school. Situated on the top of Golf Valley, should Magna Marbella be an ordinary course it would certainly have some stiff competition - Los Naranjos, Real Club de Las Brisas, La Quinta and Aloha Golf are all just around the corner. Although Magna is ultimately catering for a different market - where time is valuble - they have not economised on the quality and services they offer. The club house is elegantly furnished, and has a cosy atmosphere. It comprises the caddy master, changing facilities and the excellent Magna Cafe featuring a terrace that overlooks the golf course. Catering toward all tastes the food here is superb - as can be seen by its sudden popularity with local residents and visitors alike.

From the car park area - the management say that you can arrive, unload your clubs, play nine holes of golf, and be back in your car in aboutan hour and three quarters. Although new, the course is inimmaculate condition. The greens are Magna Marbella’s pride and joy - irrigated with water which is distilled via their own plant. This will ensure that they are well protected from disease and should be in perfect condition whenever you visit. If you only have time to get a quick round in, enjoying Magna’s nine green jewels could prove an ideal way to spend it.