Weekend Getaways Close to Sotogrande: Exploring Southern Spain

Sotogrande, Spain: Best Things to Do, Weekend Getaways & Why It’s a Top Place to Live

Sotogrande: A Top Holiday and Permanent Residence Location

Sotogrande offers a perfect base for weekend adventures, and residents have no excuse not to explore the wonders of Andalucía. Whether you like soaking up the sun on a beach, exploring historic cities, or walking in breathtaking natural landscapes, there's something for everyone within easy reach.

10 Reasons Why Sotogrande is One of the Best Holiday Locations

1. Spain and Sotogrande are Affordable

The British pound may have taken a hit against the euro of late, but Spain and Sotogrande remain one of the best value destinations for the British. Euro currency nationalities will also find it affordable as prices do not reach the dizzy heights of other European locations.

2. The Sun, Sun and Sun!

Being at the southernmost part of Europe we enjoy more than 300 days of sunshine each year – well into the autumn and winter months. As we all know, a reasonable amount of sun has huge health benefits something which is much sought after by people from northern Europe particularly.

Sotogrande Port and Marina

3. World-Class Golf in Sotogrande

Local courses include Real Club de Golf Sotogrande, Real Valderrama (Ryder Cup venue), San Roque (Old and New), and La Reserva. Three of these golf courses are in the top 10 Spanish golf courses and Real Valderrama is arguably the best golf course on continental Europe.

4. Weekend Getaways Close to Sotogrande

Tarifa:

Known as the windsurfing and kitesurfing capital of Europe, Tarifa is just a short drive from Sotogrande. Here, adrenaline junkies can ride the waves while enjoying stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar. You will also find a Danny Garcia restaurant called Bibo located on the beach and from where you can see the action if you are not up to it yourself. For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, Tarifa's charming old town, lined with narrow cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings, is perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying delicious seafood in local restaurants.

Tarifa, Cadiz

Bolonia Beach:

Nature enthusiasts shouldn't miss the opportunity to visit Bolonia Beach. It is famous for its pristine shores and towering sand dunes. You would think of yourself in the Caribbean.This unspoiled paradise offers crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Additionally, nearby attractions like the Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history.

Bolonia Beach

Vejer de la Frontera:

Perched atop a hill overlooking the Andalusian countryside, Vejer de la Frontera exudes Moorish charm and tranquility. You can wander through its labyrinthine streets adorned with colorful flowers and Moorish architecture. You can visit the historic castle, and savor authentic Andalusian cuisine with its Moorish influences. Recommended by us would be the El Jardin del Califa for a leisurely lunch. Fantastic food and great views from the top rea room.

Vejer de la Frontera, Spain

Granada:

A bit further afield but well worth the journey, Granada beckons with its iconic Alhambra Palace and the winding streets of the Albaicín neighborhood. The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and quite memorizing. As such it can be quite busy, and it is advisable to have purchased tickets in advance. Here is one site that offers ticket sales: https://tickets.alhambra-patronato.es/en/

Granada

Cordoba:

An enchanting city of Cordoba, where centuries of history are reflected in its magnificent architecture and cultural landmarks. Explore the awe-inspiring Mezquita and stroll through the charming streets of the Jewish Quarter. Also of note is the beauty of the city's iconic patios  adorned with vibrant flowers. We stayed at the Palacio de Bailio Hotel (https://www.hospes.com/en/palacio-bailio/) which we highly recommend.

Cordoba, Spain

Caminito del Rey:

For any thrill-seekers amongst you and nature lovers, the Caminito del Rey walk offers an unforgettable adventure and breathtaking scenery. This narrow cliffside walkway winds its way through the rugged landscapes of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge, providing adrenaline-pumping thrills and views at every turn. The two-hour hike is mostly flat and is something that people of any fitness level can complete.

Caminito del rey, Malaga

 

Sevilla:

No resident of Sotogrande should miss going to Sevilla. It is the capital of Andalucía and a significant city in Spain due to its history, and culture. From the wonderful Alcázar Palace to the busy streets of the Santa Cruz neighborhood, the city is a treasure trove of cultural wonders available to be discovered. Enjoy the great tapas, catch a genuine flamenco performance, or take a boat ride along the Guadalquivir River. The Noll team visited for our annual meeting last year.

Sevilla, Spain

Malaga:

Last but certainly not least, the coastal city of Malaga offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation. It is also a growing technological center with many companies setting up offices due to the great infrastructure, weather, and quality of life the city offers. Malaga has become a favorite place to live for the growing number of digital nomads.

Explore its historic center, visit the Picasso Museum, or shop till you drop. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these destinations, and many more near Sotogrande offer a wealth of experiences just waiting to be explored.

Malaga

5. Best Polo destination in Europe, right in Sotogrande

The resort has eleven polo fields belonging to the Santa Maria Polo Club, one of the best polo clubs in the world. Sotogrande hosts the exclusive Polo Summer Season with a great number of tournaments which see many Spanish and overseas Patrons, professional players and horses. Polo schools such as Polo Valley and Iridike Polo Club will happily teach you to play polo.

Adolfo Cambiaso, Argentinian Polo Player - International Polo Championship in Santa María Polo Club, Sotogrande.

6. Beaches and Beach Clubs

With many many kilometres of coastline, Spain has thousands of beaches, most of them with “Blue Flag” rating.  Sotogrande has its own beaches which are safe and popular. Any surfer or kitesurfer can enjoy excellent surf conditions in Tarifa which has spectacular Atlantic beaches and only 45 minutes away. The Trocadero beach club, the Octógono Beach Club, and the “Beach” at La Reserva are clubs where beach bars and water sports can be enjoyed. In addition, local “Chiringuitos such as Gigi’s beach, Chambao, and Bahia Limón pop up during the summer months.

7. Beautiful Mountains

Only a few kilometres inland there are spectacular mountain ranges. Enjoyed by walkers and cyclist alike. Take a drive around Sotogrande and its surrounding areas and you will see scores of cyclists.  With stunning coastal views of both Gibraltar and Morocco, and surrounded by the hilltop towns of Casares, Gaucin and San Roque, Sotogrande has it all for cyclists of all abilities.

8. Gastronomy and Wine

Most countries offer chorizo and Ibérico ham as well as Manchego cheese in their local home supermarkets. However, like wine that does not travel, sampling these delicacies in its home country makes them much more special.You could spend a very happy holiday indeed exploring the many different restaurants in and around Sotogrande and get to sample the local food that is produced with regional ingredients (oils, mushrooms, fish, etc.).

Picnic by The Jolly Mile

9. Water Sports

The marina has 1,400 berths capable of taking boats of up to 30m long, and exceptionally even larger. Sailing and motor boating are very popular, with top-class regattas held throughout the year. Whether you are interested in catamarans, sailing yachts, motor cruisers or sport fishing, the Sotogrande offers something for everyone and also offers charter and hire of sailing and motor cruisers. Sotogrande also has a wide range of water sports activities ranging from kayaking to windsurfing, kite surfing, canoeing, and hobby cats for hire on the river.

10. Sotogrande is only a few hours away

A flight from London to Malaga or Gibraltar is just three hours, and airfares are usually cheap.

There are many other good reasons to visit Sotogrande, but possibly the most recognized by those who visit, and the reason they return, and even buy a property.. is the special feeling of being safe in cosmopolitan urbanization, geared towards family life offering something for everyone. Additionally, the warmth and energy of the people in Spain and in Sotogrande make it particularly special.

With diverse nearby destinations from Sotogrande, you may have the perfect plan for your next weekend adventure.

 

Charlie +34 607 911 661

Stephanie +34 607 465 383

Email: info@noll-sotogrande.com

Noll Sotogrande Real Estate
We deliver the dream of home-ownership in Sotogrande

 

Meet the author
Charles Gubbins and Stephanie Noll
Charles Gubbins and Stephanie Noll

Founders, with over 25 years of experience in Sotogrande's Real Estate market and strong presence within the Sotogrande community

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