Say hello to Sotogrande, a real hidden gem on the Costa del Sol. This affluent area is known for its international polo, world-renowned golf courses and a laidback-yet-luxurious lifestyle – often called a secret playground for the super-rich.
Nestled between Estepona and Gibraltar on the western end of the Costa del Sol, Sotogrande is an exclusive residential area (the largest privately owned residential development in Andalucia, in fact!) that covers some 2,500 hectares. Interestingly, despite its close proximity to the Costa del Sol, Sotogrande is actually located in the municipality of San Roque in the Cadiz province.
Sotogrande is known for its luxurious atmosphere and beautiful marina, making it a popular destination for both tourists and expats alike. With great transport links both along the Costa del Sol and internationally, via Gibraltar or Malaga Airport, it’s no wonder this town has become a go-to destination for those seeking sun, sand, and sophistication.
Foodies Heaven
Sotogrande offers a diverse range of gastronomic experiences, from traditional Spanish cuisine to international dishes. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with fish and seafood sourced directly from the nearby Mediterranean waters. Most restaurants offer beautiful views of the marina or to the sea, where you can spend hours soaking up the Mediterranean rays and watching the world go by. For fresh seafood, try El Trasmallo de Agustino, an exquisite fish and tapas restaurant in neighbouring Torreguadiaro. If you’re a steak enthusiast, look no further than Cancha II Asador Argentino, a superb Argentinian grill restaurant offering some of the best meat dishes in the region.
History of the Area
Sotogrande was founded by American businessman Joseph McMicking, who saw the potential for a high-end residential and tourism development in the area. The area was designed by local architects and designers resulting in a community that blends Mediterranean charm with modern amenities. A rich history of golf and international polo attracts Spanish and international visitors annually, with five championship golf courses in the vicinity to enjoy.
World-Class Marina
Sotogrande boasts a world-class marina with over 1000 berths for boats of up to 70 meters in length. Not only is the marina a hub for boating and yachting enthusiasts, but it’s also surrounded by luxury apartments, restaurants, and shops with a vibrant and glamorous atmosphere. Sotogrande is the perfect place to spend an afternoon admiring the yachts and window shopping, followed by a cocktail in one of the many bars, as the sun sets over the Mediterranean Sea. It is also home to the annual Sotogrande Grand Prix, a high-speed powerboat race that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Prestigious Golfing Location
Sotogrande is a go-to destination for golfers of all skill levels, home to the number 1 rated golf course in Europe, the Valderrama Golf Club, which has hosted several major golf tournaments in its history, including the 1997 Ryder Cup. Other notable courses in the area include the Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, La Reserva Golf Club, and Almenara Golf Club. With challenging holes and immaculate greens overlooking the sea and surrounded by forests, Sotogrande is a golf-lover’s paradise all year round.
Things to do in Sotogrande
Peace and relaxation-seekers can take a stroll on one of Sotogrande’s beautiful beaches, such as the long, golden stretch of Playa Sotogrande, which offers ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games. A wide range of beach bars and restaurants can be found dotted along this area of the coast, catering to a variety of different tastes, budgets and vibes.
Torreguadiaro, just 1km from Sotogrande, is perfect for those who want to try their hand at water sports such as paddle boarding or kayaking. For those who prefer to take a bike ride, be sure to pay a visit to one of the nearby natural parks in the area, such as the Alcorconcales Natural Park, which boasts more than 170,000 hectares of cork forest. Hiking and birdwatching are popular activities in the park, with over 200 species of birds and mammals such as the Iberian Lynx and Spanish Ibex.
Surrounding Areas
The surrounding areas of Sotogrande are equally charming, offering a mix of stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. San Roque, a traditional Spanish town located to the west of Sotogrande, is known for its beautiful traditional Andalucian architecture and historic landmarks, such as the Castle of San Roque.
The nearby towns of Manilva, Duquesa and San Luis de Sabinillas are also just a short drive away from Sotogrande, offering up a fantastic mix of beautiful marinas, bustling bars and restaurants and nightlife.
Properties for sale in Sotogrande
Sotogrande is an excellent location for those seeking a relaxed and sophisticated lifestyle, with a stunning natural environment, proximity to popular resorts, and the sunny climate of Southern Spain. Whilst the area is primarily known for its luxurious villas with large outdoor living spaces and private pools, Sotogrande also offers a variety of apartments and townhouses, ranging from traditional to contemporary modern apartments.
Some of the most popular areas to purchase property within Sotogrande are: Sotogrande Marina, Sotogrande Alto, La Reserva, Torreguadiaro and Pueblo Nuevo de Guadiaro, though the nearby villages of Guadiaro and San Enrique are also worth a mention.
Find your property in Sotogrande with Winkworth
If you’re looking to find your dream property, a holiday home or if you’re simply thinking about investing in property in Sotogrande, then just ask Winkworth, your local experts. We have an extensive portfolio of properties in the Sotogrande area, as well as a wealth of local knowledge and insider tips to offer our customers.
Our customer service and attention to detail is second to none, having had many years of experience running real estate agents in London, so you know you’re in great hands with us at Winkworth. Just get in touch with our helpful team and start your property search in Sotogrande today.