Following its hosting of the 2023 Solheim Cup, Finca Cortesín has continued to build on its commitment to growing the women’s game in Andalucía, embedding inclusivity and accessibility into its day-to-day offering. 

As a signatory of the R&A Women in Golf Charter, the resort has evolved its approach through ambassador programmes which embody the values of the sport, tailored experiences and long-term investment. 

As a result, there has been increased interest in women’s golf travel to this part of the world, with areas such as Andalucía offering so much in climate, culture and golf. 

Director of Golf José Ignacio Olea discusses how Finca Cortesín’s vision is shaping engagement, travel trends and the future of women’s golf.

Becoming a signatory of the R&A Women in Golf Charter was never intended as a symbolic gesture for us. Hosting the Solheim Cup 2023 simply accelerated a direction we already believed in. Since then, the focus has been on embedding those commitments into our daily operation, whether it be how we welcome guests, how we design our programmes, and how we think about the future of the game.

A key part of that evolution has been the visibility and influence of our ambassadors, Ana Peláez and Nuria Iturrioz. Both embody the values we want to champion: excellence, accessibility, and leadership within women’s golf. Their association with Finca Cortesín reinforces our commitment to inspiring participation and showing what is possible for women at every level of the game.

We’ve placed greater emphasis on accessibility and experience, ensuring that women, whether they are beginners or experienced players, feel that this is a space designed with them in mind. It’s less about creating separate initiatives and more about integrating inclusivity into the DNA of what we offer. That shift is where the real evolution lies.

Hosting an event of that magnitude is a privilege, but it is only the beginning. Our responsibility was always going to continue long after the crowds left. Events like the Solheim Cup bring visibility, but it’s our job to show sustained commitment which then builds trust and long-term growth. 

For resorts, it’s about the consistency of continuing to invest in programmes, in talent, and in the overall experience. The women’s game is growing, but it requires environments where players feel genuinely valued, not just during headline moments, but every day. That’s where destinations can make a lasting impact.

The clinics at the Nicklaus Academy and our collaboration with players from the Ladies European Tour have been very well received, particularly because they create a more personal and immersive experience.

What we hear most often is that guests appreciate the sense of connection and being able to learn in a relaxed environment, guided by people who truly understand the game at the highest level. It removes a certain barrier and makes the experience more approachable, which is essential for growth.

In the last month we have celebrated an exclusive Golf Masterclass hosted by Ana Peláez, LET & Spanish champion. Also, we are proud to have incorporated a female Golf Instructor to our team, Valentina Albertazzi. She is a fantastic addition to our services proposition and are thrilled to see Valentina grow at Finca Cortesin.

Success is not something we measure purely in numbers. Of course, participation and bookings are important indicators, but what matters more is engagement, and how people feel about the experience, whether they return, and whether they become ambassadors in their own way.

We look at the depth of that connection. Are guests staying longer? Are they coming back with friends? Are they recommending the destination? These are often more telling than any short-term metric.

There has been a noticeable shift. Younger players are more curious, more open to the experience, and perhaps less constrained by traditional perceptions of the sport. They are looking for something that combines golf with lifestyle, travel, and community.

At Finca Cortesín, we’ve seen that when the environment feels welcoming and contemporary, engagement follows naturally. It’s about meeting them where they are, rather than expecting them to adapt to the game as it once was.

They play an important role, but perhaps not always in a direct or immediate way. These initiatives build confidence and familiarity. They allow potential guests to imagine themselves in that environment.

In many cases, the decision to travel is emotional as much as practical. When someone feels inspired or connected, whether this is through a clinic or an ambassador, that can often become the starting point in the decision-making process. 

Absolutely. Destinations like Andalucía offer a unique combination with the climate, culture, and rich golfing heritage, but we’re finding increasingly that travellers are looking for values, and to know that the destination aligns with their expectation in terms of inclusivity and experience. Naturally the Solheim Cup has helped position Andalucía in the heart of that conversation, but the continued effort across the region is what is going to sustain this increase. 

Role models are essential. Seve was a prime example in Spain back in the 80's. Figures like Marta, Nuria, and Ana bring authenticity and credibility. They show what is possible, but also make the game feel more accessible.

Seeing someone you can relate to, someone who represents both excellence but also matched with their persona and approachability, can be the difference between choosing to pick up a sport or not, so it is vital that our ambassadors represent these values. 

Spain’s heritage in women’s golf is incredibly powerful, and it for sure plays a key role in inspiring female golfers today. As I mentioned before, the success of Spanish players at the highest level has created a strong, recognisable identity built on skill, resilience, flair, and a deep connection to the game. 

That legacy then breeds confidence in the sport and the destination itself, as it signals a culture that values and supports women’s participation in the sport. A sense of history and belonging matters, and we also see it reflect in the great talent of young amateur female golfers succeeding in the global landscape. 

There has been a clear increase in interest, particularly in women group travel. Ladies are increasingly travelling together for golf, often combining it with wellness, gastronomy, and leisure.

What is interesting is that these trips tend to be very well planned and experience-driven. It reflects a more holistic approach to golf travel, which aligns closely with what we aim to offer. Canada is a market where we have definitely seen a business increase.

There are a number of initiatives geared towards women's golf and currently in different development phases. These include a widespan of operational areas from tuition programming to golf travel and of course professional golf. We are truly excited for what's to come and stay committed to our passion for the growth of the game. 

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