Best golf courses in Sotogrande

With some of the most well-known golfing hotspots laid out around the town of Sotogrande, the area has long been visited by golfers looking for a truly exceptional golf holiday. We’re not sure whether there’s any part of Europe that has as strong a collection of courses as those that can be found around this part of the Costa del Sol.

So, without further ado, join us as we fly through some of the many excellent destinations, and the best golf courses in Sotogrande.

It’s Valderrama. You’ve seen it on TV and in the Ryder Cup, and yet, it still never fails to amaze. One of the most lauded courses on the planet, it’s easy to see why this incredible venue has garnered such strong acclaim.

The conditioning is impeccable, thanks to continued investment in the playing surfaces. Each hole has myriad tees, making it enjoyable for all – however, be sure to keep it on the straight and narrow, with Valderrama’s famous trees a constant threat.

It’s not just the course that oozes brilliance though. From the moment you step foot on property, it’s evident that you’ve been welcomed to somewhere truly special. We’d highly recommend that every golfer experiences the course at least once!

Valderrama facts

Length: - Back tees: 6988 yards - Front tees: 5351 yards Par: 71 Architect: Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Founded: 1885 Course type: Parkland style

A recent host of the Solheim Cup, and a many-time professional destination, Finca Cortesin has long been thought of as one of the most decadent golfing destinations in Europe. The service here is second to none, with complimentary range balls and fresh fruit to add a touch of class to your visit.

The course itself is slightly more inland, giving a more private feel to the experience – aided by the lack of significant accommodation projects nearby! However, those who do want to stay close are well catered for with an excellent five-star hotel on-site, producing one of the very best golf resorts in Spain.

Finca Cortesin facts

Length: - Back tees: 7366 yards - Front tees: 5307 yards Par: 72 Architect: Cabell B. Robinson Founded: 2006 Course type: Stadium style

La Reserva is a more recent addition to the region, although it has already become a firm favourite amongst visiting golfers who consider it one of the top courses in Sotogrande. The layout itself has been compared favourably to some of the biggest names around the area, and we’d struggle to recommend anywhere that we’d prefer to sit for a post-round drink than the veranda of La Reserva’s impressive clubhouse.

The course has already hosted several professional events, notably on both the men’s and ladies' European Tours and is as enjoyable as any course you’re ever likely to play. That is of course providing you play from the correct tee boxes … as they can be stretched back to more than 7,300 yards!

La Reserva facts

Length: - Back tees: 7351 yards - Front tees: 5581 yards Par: 72 Architect: Cabell B. Robinson Founded: 2003 Course type: Parkland style

Although the Old Course at San Roque originally opened for play in 1990, it has recently undergone a major renovation to both the course and the wider facilities which have thoroughly modernised this impeccable destination.

The original layout was designed by Tony Jacklin and Dave Thomas, with the late Seve Ballesteros adding some of his touches to the bunkering several years later. The modern improvements have ensured that the Old Course at San Roque Golf Club will continue to be talked about as favourably as many of its neighbours, with the constant undulation and hidden water hazards making low-scoring tough.

San Roque, Old Course facts

Length: - Back tees: 7103 yards - Front tees: 5659 yards Par: 72 Architect: Dave Thomas and Severiano Ballesteros Founded: 1990 Course type: Parkland style

Despite its name, Alcaidesa Links is more of a clifftop layout, with stunning vistas across the Mediterranean and towards Gibraltar, owing to its elevated positioning. The course was designed by Peter Aliss and Clive Clark, also opening in 1990 alongside the San Roque Old Course. Like others in the area, it has undergone recent renovations, including the addition of a second course, making it a great base for a golf trip to the region.

Alcaidesa Links Course facts

Length: - Back tees: 6388 yards - Front tees: 5066 yards Par: 72 Architect: Peter Alliss and Clive Clark Founded: 1992 Course type: Links

The Almenara Golf Club is located on-site at the S/O Sotogrande Resort and offers 27 holes of excellent golf for guests to enjoy during their stay. Its idyllic location and choice of 9-hole loops make it one of our most played courses in the region, and it’s the perfect accompaniment to some of the bigger names in the region. The Pines and Cork loops join to make the strongest 18-hole offering, although the Lakes is a strong option too, particularly for those looking to just enjoy a quick 9-hole on the day of arrival or departure.

Almenara GC facts

Length: - Back tees: 5805 yards - Front tees: 4527 yards Par: 71 Architect: Dave Thomas Founded: 1998 Course type: Parkland style

Our last option around Sotogrande is Club de Golf La Canada. The region’s first municipal golf course can be somewhat overlooked in favour of the bigger names in the area, however, still provides a fabulous experience, thanks to expert design from Dave Thomas and Robert Trent Jones. Furthermore, the course is just 20 minutes from Gibraltar airport, making it an ideal stop for those flying in or out of here!

La Canada facts

Length: - Back tees: 6417 yards - Front tees: 5461 yards Par: 71 Architect: Dave Thomas and Robert Trent Jones Founded: 1982 Course type: Woodland style