When it comes to golf destinations, few places in the world, and even fewer in Europe, can rival Sotogrande. Nestled along the stunning southern coast of Spain, this private 20-square-kilometre development boasts not one, not two, but three of the country’s top seven golf courses, as well as an award-winning resort that served as the perfect base during our recent visit.
The Real Club Valderrama (No. 1), the Real Club Sotogrande (No. 2), and La Reserva Club (No. 7) are all within a short drive of each other, offering world-class experiences that make Sotogrande a true golfer’s paradise. Having visited this golf mecca, we can safely say that this destination offers more than challenging greens and spectacular views: it is an unforgettable experience both on and off the course.
Our first golfing experience in Sotogrande was at La Reserva Club, an exquisite Spanish country club that combines off-course luxury with thrilling golf. Known for hosting several editions of the Aramco Team Series of the Ladies European Tour, we knew we were in for an unforgettable experience. The course is an impressive design by Cabell B. Robinson that offers stunning views of the Andalusian hills and the Mediterranean Sea from the highest points. Several of the fairways offer generous landing areas, but the real challenge begins with the approach shots, as they require absolute precision. The well-protected greens will punish any approach that is not perfect.
The warm weather and bright sunshine were constant companions throughout the round, as we made our way through the stunning real estate offerings set on the hillside. A personal highlight was the 16th hole, a par five. From the (reasonably distant) back tees, the tee shot guides you through a series of trees before you attempt to clear the water hazard on the left that looms around the 15th green. If you make the fairway, you’ll have the chance to hit the green in two, but be careful, there’s a large ravine hidden behind some cavernous bunkers at the front of the green, and a long shot is no good. After climbing the hill on the 18th, what better way to reminisce than sitting on the terrace in the sun and enjoying the scenery.
Our next stop was the Real Club Valderrama. Located in the heart of Sotogrande and known worldwide as Spain’s number one golf course, this former Ryder Cup host course is steeped in history, having long been a venue for the DP World Tour and more recently hosting LIV Golf Andalucía. The Robert Trent Jones design of Valderrama is a masterpiece, with narrow fairways that demand precision. The rough is tough and the greens are fast and undulating.
From the moment we entered the property, it was clear we were in a special place. There is an almost indescribable aura when you step onto the practice range. There are many memorable moments throughout the round. Despite hitting the centre of the fairway on the first hole, a high iron shot was the only way to find the putting surface. The fourth hole, one of the friendliest from the tee, tempts you to go for the green in two, but it is one of the most fiercely protected par five greens known. The pars are as challenging as they are beautiful, and on almost all of them, you have to shape the tee shot to fit the contours. And, of course, there’s the famous 17th hole, a par five that must be played once in a lifetime. Standing on the 18th green, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe: this is a course where legends have been forged, and for a few hours, we walked in their footsteps.
The only course located by the coast of Sotogrande, the Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, is another gem designed by Robert Trent Jones and will soon host the Andalucía Masters of the DP World Tour again. Ranked as number two in Spain, it is the oldest and original course in Sotogrande, opened 60 years ago as Trent Jones‘s first design in Europe. When we arrived at the Clubhouse, the first thing that struck me was the understated elegance of the place. It is one of the finest golf courses in Spain and Europe, yet its prestige does not weigh it down, offering a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with classic Spanish touches, as well as exceptional golf.
The design is a perfect blend of challenge and playability, with wide fairways lined with cork trees and expansive greens that demand careful reading. One of the few courses on the Costa del Sol best enjoyed on foot, playing here was a true pleasure. The layout makes excellent use of the natural terrain, with numerous unique sections of the course coming together to make a fantastic 18-hole design.
The club’s signature hole, number 7, did not disappoint. A precise hybrid or fairway wood is needed from the tee to avoid the large bunker on the right, without overshooting the fairway. The approach shot is to a slender green, which is protected by a water hazard along the right side, and a plethora of bunkers ready to catch any “safe” shot favouring the left side. A brilliant design. Visually, this course is spectacular, with some of the most immaculate conditioning we’ve seen in the world. Relaxing on the balcony overlooking the 18th green and the 1st tee after the match was a real treat. This club creates an atmosphere that makes you want to return time and time again.
Our final round of the trip was at the Club de Golf Almenara, located in the luxurious SO/ Sotogrande Spa and Golf Resort. This course, set among rolling hills and lush vegetation, was a change of pace from the higher-level courses I had played before. Originally designed by Dave Thomas and recently remodelled by legendary local golfer Manuel Piñero, the nine-hole Lagos and Pinos courses at Almenara combine to offer a truly enjoyable round.
One thing that quickly becomes apparent at Almenara is that you will face some of the more typical elevation changes we see elsewhere on the Costa del Sol. The first tee of the Pinos course is right next to the SoCiety Clubhouse restaurant. This nine-hole course offers spectacular elevation changes and is tree-lined from start to finish. As its name suggests, the Lagos course offers a contrasting style and wraps around a large lake in the centre of the property. The sixth hole is a real challenge for golfers. Whether you choose to use the driver from the tee or play it safe, you will have to hit over the lake at some point. While Almenara may be more forgiving than other courses like Valderrama, it offers enough challenges to keep any golfer on their toes, and it’s the perfect complement to a golf holiday in Sotogrande.
During our stay in Sotogrande, we were able to relax at the SO/ Sotogrande Spa and Golf Resort, a five-star oasis as luxurious as it is tranquil. This stylish resort combines Andalusian charm with modern elegance, offering everything from specially curated dining experiences to a world-class spa and wellness centre. After a day on the course, there’s nothing like unwinding by the pool or enjoying a massage to soothe the muscles.
One of the best perks of staying at SO/ Sotogrande is access to the area’s top golf courses. Booking a stay-and-play package through the resort is the easiest way to secure coveted tee times at the Real Club Valderrama and the Real Club Sotogrande. This convenience, combined with the hotel’s luxury, makes it the ultimate gateway to Europe’s premier golf destination.
Another highlight of the trip was the gastronomy. At the beachfront Trocadero Beach Club, we enjoyed tapas and fresh seafood, with a perfectly cooked paella served at the table standing out. Another memorable meal was at Restaurante Cancha II, an Argentine steakhouse located next to one of Sotogrande‘s many polo fields. The restaurant served delicious cured steaks and grilled meats in a rustic and charming setting. Both venues added a rich culinary touch to the trip, showcasing Sotogrande‘s vibrant dining scene.
There is no doubt that Sotogrande is a golfer’s paradise, and SO/ Sotogrande provides the perfect base from which to explore it. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and all four golf courses within a 15-minute drive, it’s a trip every golfer should make at least once.