Miles of magnificent coastline, inland olive and almond groves, rolling pastures punctuated by mountains and ravines, plus thriving cities and cultural hubs.
There’s certainly no shortage of things to see and do in Andalusia, the southernmost and largest of Spain’s autonomous regions. Likewise, the locals are also deeply passionate about their sporting history and traditions, making Andalusia a great place to enjoy elite sporting events and locations, whether as a participant or spectator.
Valderrama (Golf)
“Best golf course in Spain” is how the official https://www.valderrama.com/ website titles itself, which may sound boastful, although most golfers would tend to agree after playing a few rounds at this historic venue. Opened in 1974 and originally known as Las Aves, since changing ownership in 1984 and its name to Valderrama, the course and facilities have consistently been rated by leading pros and golf writers as the best in Europe.
Time has never stood still at Valderrama, despite the pristine fairways and greens hosting numerous prestigious tournaments, including the Volvo Masters and the memorable 1997 Ryder Cup, the first in Europe to be held outside the British Isles. In 2011 the Visconde de Pereira Machado was elected as President of the Club and since then, Valderrama has undergone a complete renovation, then achieved Royal Status in 2015.
Although this prestigious venue remains a private members club, visitors are always welcomed, which has led to avid golfers from around the globe flocking to test their skills on the Valderrama course. While the €400 cost of playing 18 holes may seem a little steep, time slots are limited and in great demand. That being said, the facilities and the course itself are spectacular, as are the surroundings, making this a worthwhile treat for any golfer.
Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán (Soccer)
Just a few years ago, this magnificent venue was looking rather dishevelled and worn by the rigors of time, although it’s amazing what a facelift can bring to such a historic soccer stadium. Stadium owners Sevilla FC decided to upgrade facilities, getting the ball rolling by repainting the interior and renewing the seating, upgrading the changing rooms and press facilities, then applying illuminated cladding around the exterior.
The end result is truly breathtaking, taking a once run-down venue firmly into the 21st century, making this one of the most unmissable soccer trips to make in Spain. Adding to the fact that Sevilla fans are amongst the noisiest around, loudly chanting and singing at every game, visiting the Sánchez Pizjuán is a joy to behold for any soccer fans, given the animated atmosphere of matchdays.
Given that soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world, with teams competing in LaLiga amongst the most keenly followed in the world, fans often wager on the outcome of games in Spain’s top competition. Whether visiting the numerous and spectacular venues or watching from home, https://www.sbo.net/ has a wealth of extensive articles on different sports, including soccer, with strategies and tips aimed at getting the most from online betting.
Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto (Motorsports)
If the roar of engines gets your adrenaline going, there’s no better location than a racing circuit. Thankfully, close to the city of Jerez de la Frontera and deep within the famed sherry-producing region of southern Spain, Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto provides motorsports fans with everything they could possibly crave. This includes several Racing Weekend events with free entry according to the https://www.circuitodejerez.com/ calendar, featuring events such as the Formula 4 Championship, national GT racing contests, plus the Mini Cooper Cup.
When it hosted the 1997 European Formula One Grand Prix, the Jerez circuit was the scene of a spectacular battle between Michael Schumacher and Jacques Villenueve, which ultimately decided the F1 Drivers’ Championship title. Unfortunately, that was also the last F1 Grand Prix to be hosted at the venue, although testing did continue until 2015. Still, there are plenty of four-wheeled events to enjoy, including the 30-hour Lamera Cup in August and the Jerez Historic Festival in October.
These days, the most prestigious events held at the iconic Jerez circuit involve motorbikes, including the MotoGP World Championship, with the venue a permanent fixture in the schedule of races each year. In May 2022, the Gran Premio de España will see MotoGP return once again, as the top riders jostle for position around the twists ant turns. Best advice is always to book early, as tickets for the MotoGP always sell out quickly, especially with so many homegrown Spanish riders competing in the championship.
