Barcelo Montecastillo Golf

The Barcelo Montecastillo Resort is a haven for golfers, with its own golf course and driving range that draw groups of men traveling together, and dining and drinking between tee times. Golf course views from the sun terraces are spectacular, and charming walkways wind through the beautifully landscaped grounds. The resort was renovated in 2013 and feels upscale and modern, but not ostentatious or stuffy. Two-story windows allow Spanish sun to stream through the lobby, which has slightly secluded areas for groups to socialize, and is decorated with kilim-upholstered sofas, oriental carpets, and interesting artworks. There are other spots for socializing on the various terraces and in the spacious hallways, with comfortably chic seating. Ricardo's Snack Bar has outdoor and indoor tables and a grand piano on the porch -- for that extra, five-star touch.

The Barcelo Montecastillo Resort is located in a gated community about six miles from the center of the town of Jerez de la Frontera. The neighborhood is secluded, and the resort is surrounded by apartment buildings, many of which were under construction that was halted due to the downturn in the Spanish economy. There isn't much to do in the immediate area, but the resort has fantastic facilities and lush grounds with plenty of space to roam. Next door is the Circuita de Jerez, a Formula One racetrack, which hosts both car and motorcycle races.

Rooms at the Barcelo Montecastillo Resort are serene and lovely, with quality furniture and the attention to detail that makes for a five-star experience. There are floor-to-ceiling drapes, refined color schemes, and interesting artwork, such as a triptych of crisp, black-and-white landscape photographs over the bed. Flat-screen TVs come with satellite channels, and there is free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are not large, but big enough, and include soaking tubs with rain showerheads to help fend off golf-induced muscle aches. Some villas have private gardens, and the Presidential Villa is completely autonomous (but room service accessible!).

The Barcelo Montecastillo Resort is all about sports and activity, centering around the impressive 18-hole golf course and driving range. The sporting facilities are well-kept, if heavily used, and include tennis and paddle tennis, jogging paths, two soccer pitches, and a modern fitness center. All-inclusive guests have unlimited golf time and an hour's free tennis per day. For post-game relaxing, there's an airy, full-service spa complete with steam, sauna, and indoor pool for hydromassage. The two outdoor pools (one lap pool, and another pool with golf course views) are beautifully landscaped with rock outcroppings, palm trees, and tropical plants, making each one feel like a private oasis. The El Lagar Restaurant Buffet is not crowded or cheap-feeling, but rather is high-end for a buffet, with elegant indoor and outdoor seating areas. There is a children's pool open year-round, and children's activities are offered in August.