Rene Zimmer has been, for many years, one of the main people responsible for the unquestionable success of Finca Cortesín, the internationally renowned Costa Sol resort located in Casares municipality. Under his management as CEO is a complex – extending throughout a 215-hectare estate – that includes an 18-hole golf course, a five-star hotel, a spa, a sports area and a beach club, as well as a residential area.
How would you describe, succinctly, what Finca Cortesín is all about?
Finca Cortesín is exclusive and luxurious in a world set apart, where traditional Mediterranean lifestyle is seamlessly combined with the latest in contemporary living: superb cuisine, impeccable service and an unrivalled ambience of peace and tranquillity.
What are the keys that have enabled Finca Cortesín to become, in its short existence, one of the most prestigious resorts in Europe?
At the heart of everything we do at the resort is the emphasis that we put on experience. Whether it be on the golf course, in the spa or at one of our restaurants, we make sure that every detail is taken into consideration to ensure that our discerning guests enjoy an experience like no other.
The scene of three Volvo World Match Play Championships... will Finca Cortesín return to host another professional international category tournament?
Hosting the Volvo World Match Play Championship really helped to put Finca Cortesin on the world golfing map, and we would love to stage another major event soon. Everything is in place to do so and the course is “tournament ready”. We would welcome the opportunity to stage a European Tour event and feel that the layout of the golf course is set up ideally for the match play format.
Three reasons why a golfer has to play this golf course…
Finca Cortesin is an exciting and challenging golf course and, with the lakes, elevation changes and complex greens that have been incorporated into Cabell Robinson’s world-class design, there is always something new to experience and enjoy.
We are always looking at ways that we can improve the course, and now is the ideal time to come and play. Three years ago, we became the first golf course in Spain to replace our greens with an optimum type of Bermuda grass, and the result is that they are in better condition than ever before, with the putting surfaces running smooth, true and fast all-year round.
The service that we offer all our golfers is unrivalled, from the moment they arrive and warm-up on the driving range to the complimentary snacks that we provide on course, while we have recently improved the service further by upgrading our fleet of state-of-the-art Club Car golf buggies.
What differentiates the Nicklaus Academy at the resort from other golf academies on the Costa del Sol?
Golf is a hard game at the best of times. Finca Cortesin is committed to delivering the best possible golf experience, and it is imperative that our golfers have access to the latest technology available.
The significant investment that we’ve made in our tuition facilities in recent years puts our academy among not just the best in Spain but the very best in Europe; and the very personal experience that our coaching team offers, led by our director of instruction Ricardo Jimenez, reflects the approach of the resort in everything we do.
The resort hotel has been awarded numerous international awards in recognition of its quality. What would you particularly highlight about the hotel?
Our main goals at Finca Cortesin have always been sophistication, exclusivity and privacy, which is reflected in the architecture, design and interiors of the resort – giving every area a big, bright and spacious feel.
The key values of Finca Cortesin are to provide exceptional dining experiences, renowned service, and peace and tranquillity, and they will continue to be at the centre of the luxury customer experience that we offer going forwards.
