Why Play Golf In Sotogrande?
The area around from Malaga to Marbella in Spain’s Costa Del Sol is often considered the most popular destination for UK golfers looking for a sunshine break at an economical price. However, for those who go further afield and head towards Gibraltar, they will discover some of Europe’s very best golf courses in Sotogrande. Within a small area, there are some outstanding courses including Valderrama which as well as hosting many professional tournaments held the Ryder Cup in 1977. Golf in Sotogrande is truly out of this world.
The average year-round temperature is nearly 20 degrees and on average there are 325 days of sunshine so it’s not surprising that it has become such a popular location. The area has been developed with a concentration on quality rather than catering to the mass market. There are some outstanding properties located in the area and it has become a popular retirement destination for visitors from all over Europe.
What Is the Best Way To Get To Sotogrande?
Sotogrande is closer to Gibraltar Airport than it is to Malaga but there are obviously more flights into Malaga and they are generally cheaper.
By car, Malaga airport is around 1.5 hours away mainly on the motorway so it’s not too much of a chore whereas Gibraltar is about 11 miles away though it can take some time to get through the border control.
If you’re not sure about taking your golf clubs on the plane, take a look at our flying with golf clubs guide to see how to travel with the various airlines in the UK.
Why Sotogrande Golf?
For many years Valderrama was regarded as the best course in Europe and although it has been surpassed by other newer golf courses in some ranking lists it is still a very special place and in our opinion its still the number one course in Spain.
The atmosphere is unique and you can’t help feeling you are following in the footsteps of some of golf’s greatest players. From the moment you arrive. and drive through the guarded gates, see all the wonderful memorabilia in the majestic clubhouse and most importantly play on some of the best-kept turfs anywhere it’s a thrilling experience. Almost next door is La Reserva Golf which although it only opened in 2003 has established itself as a must play course for those looking for quality golf.
The two courses at the San Roque Club are well-established favourites for visitors and with Almenara and Finca Cortesin you can make an outstanding package that would delight even the most discerning of visitors.
Whilst the courses above are at the top end of the price range there are several other courses that are much more affordable but will still challenge most players. La Canada is especially good and for those and if you want spectacular views then Alcaidesa shouldn’t be missed.
Sotogrande Golf On Your Next Golfing Break
For those looking to stay on a golf course then the Hotel Almenara Golf Resort is ideal. There are 27 excellent holes of golf and four-star accommodation in either apartments or hotel rooms. Sotogrande has its own marina and is known locally as “little Venice” as it has a few bars and restaurants overlooking it.
If you are looking for a little more nightlife, then the nearby Resorts of Estepona and Duquesa offer bars and restaurants to suit all tastes and pockets. Both towns have a marina with bars and restaurants around them and are smaller versions of Puerto Banus.
The NH Sotogrande is a modern four-star hotel very close to the golf courses and about 15 minutes from the Marina. It has all the features you would expect from such a property and is the ideal location for those wanting to experience the area. Nearby there are two courses at San Roque Golf and you can stay on site there in luxurious suite style accommodation.
Other Things to Do In Sotogrande
Situated on the Mediterranean there are numerous water-based activities you can experience whilst staying in Sotogrande. It’s a popular area for diving, kayaking and paddle boarding and for the less active there is over 10 kms of beach to discover.
Inland there is the Andalusian Natural Park to explore and amongst the things you can see are several bronze age cave dwellings which are well worth a visit. The area is ideal for those interested in hiking or walking and, again, for the more energetic there are mountain bike trails and 4X4 experiences.
Tennis and paddle tennis centres are located throughout the area and it is also home to a world-famous polo ground which attracts numerous visitors when it stages tournaments.
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