Comprehensive Area Guides
Become an expert on Sotogrande and the surrounding areas
Nestled amidst the picturesque hills and pristine beaches of Andalusia, Sotogrande beckons discerning travellers seeking an unparalleled blend of luxury, leisure, and authentic Spanish charm. This prestigious enclave, situated on the western Costa del Sol coastline, roughly 44 kilometres west of Marbella, effortlessly combines a sophisticated lifestyle with a relaxed, seaside ambience. Read on to learn more about the history of Sotogrande and the communities that have formed.
History of Sotogrande
Sotogrande’s history began in 1962 when American industrialist Joseph McMicking had a vision to create a luxury residential complex on a sprawling estate in southern Spain. He bought the land and began to transform it into a world-class destination. The first golf course, the Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, was built in 1964 and designed by Robert Trent Jones, an American golf architect.
McMicking’s vision did not end with just one golf course. He continued to develop the town’s infrastructure, adding more golf courses, polo fields, marinas, and other amenities. McMicking also believed that the town’s location, nestled between the foothills of the Sierra Almenara and the Mediterranean Sea, made it the perfect place for a luxury residential community.
The Spanish border closure with Gibraltar in 1969 was a defining moment in the history of Sotogrande. Many residents of Gibraltar and nearby Spanish towns took advantage of Sotogrande’s open borders and moved to the town, adding to its cultural diversity. It also motivated McMicking to invest in developing the town’s infrastructure, including the opening of a new port in 1970.
Sotogrande Post-1980
Over the years, several milestones and events shaped Sotogrande’s history. In 1985, the San Roque Club, an exclusive residential development and golf resort, opened nearby, adding to the town’s allure. During 1993, the development of the Santa Maria Polo Club began, establishing Sotogrande as a world-renowned destination for polo enthusiasts.
While the town has gone through many changes over the years, it remains a popular tourist destination. Visitors to Sotogrande can explore several places of historic and cultural interest, such as Conil de la Frontera, the Castillo de Castellar, a 13th-century fortress located northeast of Sotogrande. The town of Jimena de la Frontera, located a short drive away, is known for its medieval castle and charming narrow streets. Additionally, the nearby city of Jerez de la Frontera is famous for its sherry bodegas and flamenco culture.
In conclusion, Sotogrande has come a long way since its origins as a vision of Joseph McMicking. Today, it continues to attract residents and visitors alike with its luxurious properties, stunning golf courses and polo fields, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. The town’s history is a testament to the vision of its founder and a lesson in the power of perseverance and determination.
La Reserva de Sotogrande
Sotogrande’s newest jewel, La Reserva, has blossomed into a captivating haven of contemporary design seamlessly interwoven with the essence of Andalusian luxury. This prestigious enclave, meticulously planned for low-density living, boasts generous plot sizes and breathtaking panoramic vistas.
Sotogrande Alto
A haven for those that love two things. Golf and the high life. Sotogrande Alto is a verdant area of Sotogrande encompassing the part north of the A7 motorway, taking in the areas of La Reserva and Almenara, as well as being home to four golf clubs, including the world-famous Real Club Valderrama, host of the 1997 Ryder Cup.
Sotogrande Costa
Developed since the early 1960s as a American-inspired suburban residential area, centred around the Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, Sotogrande Costa takes in all the land located on the coastal side of the A7 highway, including the marina and the prestigious area of Kings & Queens, home to some of the most exclusive homes.
Sotogrande Marina
Sotogrande Marina is an area of luxurious waterside apartments that stretch along the quay of the marina and across a series of manmade islands that jut out into the canals. Located between the Guadiaro River and the Puerto de Sotogrande, the Marina is home to the Real Club Marítimo Sotogrande and the popular Sunday market.
Finca Cortesin
Finca Cortesin is a unique private estate in the foothills of Casares. Home to the Finca Cortesin hotel, one of the Top 50 Hotels in the world, and award-winning golf course, this luxurious community offers the utmost in quality, security and high-end living, in both new build properties and existing homes.
San Roque
Nestled amidst the lush hills and ancient cork oak forests of Andalusia, Spain, San Roque and the San Roque Club is a golfer’s dream come true. Formerly the estate of the Domecq sherry family, this historic club boasts a magnificent mansion as its center-piece, surrounded by 340 acres of serene natural beauty.