“Golf helps you live longer and be healthier and happier.”Dr Andrew Murray, R&A Health Consultant In our age of sedentary lifestyles and ultra-processed foods, it can be easy to lose sight of how simple changes can make a big difference to your health. Taking up golf, for example, can help prevent and treat as many as 40 major chronic diseases, according to research by The R&A. It can improve strength and balance and burn up to 2,000 calories for players completing 18 holes. On average, The R&A has found, golfers live five years longer than non-golfers. Golf, like all exercise, can also deliver a range of mental health benefits. The National Institutes of Health report that exercise reduces depression and anxiety and improves self-esteem and cognitive function. In addition, spending time in nature can elevate happiness, joy, creativity and concentration levels, according to the Mental Health Foundation. This means that golfers enjoy a dual benefit, from the exercise itself and from the surrounding scenery. Nor is it just individuals who benefit from playing golf. For areas that are home to golf courses, there are significant economic rewards to reap. The Costa del Sol – nicknamed the Costa del Golf due to its 70+ courses – draws in tourists from around the world. According to Andalucian President Juanma Moreno, the region hopes to attract a record-breaking 33 million visitors during 2023. Many will be there specifically to spend time on the fairways. |
The economic benefits of golf spread beyond the direct income received from players. Airlines, hotels, restaurants, shops, car hire businesses, travel insurers and many more all benefit from golfers who travel. Entire industries are designed around delivering amazing holiday experiences to them. Leading Spanish home builder Taylor Wimpey España provides a prime example of how golfers’ needs are prioritised. The company is building a selection of spacious townhouses and apartments at the prestigious La Cala Golf Resort in Malaga. La Cala is home to three golf courses, plus tennis, padel, football, swimming and spa facilities, making it a popular choice with golfers seeking a luxurious retreat for themselves and their families. “Golf resorts such as La Cala are about much more than playing golf. They provide stunning scenery, tranquility and a deep connection with nature that both golfers and non-golfers can enjoy. At La Cala, there’s also the benefit of four on-site restaurants and a poolside bar, providing plenty of ways to enjoy Malaga’s superb regional cuisine.” Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director, Taylor Wimpey España |
Taylor Wimpey España is currently building homes at Belaria at La Cala Golf Resort. The development consists of 21 three-storey townhouses, with panoramic views of the resort, the sea and Mijas valley. The private, gated community has a communal pool and gardens for owners to enjoy, while each light-filled home also comes with over 90m2 of outdoor terrace space. Prices for the townhouses, which have an A-rating for their energy efficiency, start from €585,000 plus VAT. Apartments and penthouses are also available at La Cala Golf, at Taylor Wimpey España’s Solana Village development. Split between Solana Village East and Solana Village South (so-named due to the differing orientations of the homes), the first-line golf properties sit close to the clubhouse and spa, overlooking the Europa golf course. The homes feature large terraces with glass balcony enclosures, while ground-floor apartments also have private gardens. The open plan interiors are fully equipped, with fitted wardrobes, air conditioning, fitted kitchen with appliances, LED lighting package and fully fitted bathrooms with unit, mirror and shower screen. An extras package is also available for buyers seeking to personalise their home before moving in. Prices start from €310,000 plus VAT at Solana Village East and from €370,000 at Solana Village South. “There are many benefits to owning a well-located golf home. Not only does it provide easy access to an active, healthy lifestyle and stunning natural scenery, but there’s also a lovely social element. Owning a property at La Cala Golf provides the chance to connect with a community of like-minded golf enthusiasts and to participate in both social and sporting events. Many of our buyers form meaningful friendships through owning a second home here in Spain.” Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director, Taylor Wimpey España For more information, please contact Taylor Wimpey España on 08000 121 020 or visit https://www.taylorwimpeyspain.com/. If you reside outside of the UK, you will need to call 00 34 971 706 972. |
