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Our today's visit is to a chic destination, a short 30-minute drive from Gibraltar. Nestled in Sotogrande, a renowned prestigious, upscale lifestyle community that can be found between serene beaches and picturesque countryside. The predominant development in the area consists of lavish villas, adding to the allure of this exclusive enclave. Residents and visitors of Sotogrande enjoy access to an array of amenities, including world-class golf courses such as Valderrama and La Reserva Golf and Country Club. Additionally, Santa Maria polo club offers unparalleled experiences for equestrian enthusiasts. Notably, one thing that Sotogrande had been missing until recently was a truly 5-star hotel.
However, our first-hand experience at SO/ Sotogrande has revealed that this exquisite destination more than lives up to its five-star status. From the meticulously designed rooms with their own private gardens, to the indulgent SPA and spacious GYM, every aspect of the hotel exudes luxury. The impeccable service, breathtaking views, exceptional dining options, and a delectable breakfast spread with an abundance of choices further enhance the extraordinary experience.
As soon as you arrive, the perfection and luxurious ambiance of SO/ Sotogrande become evident. Upon handing over your car to the valet, you are warmly welcomed into the Arrivals Pavilion, a stunningly modern space flooded with natural light. The seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces is achieved through contemporary glass walls. The attentive staff, dressed in bespoke creations by renowned fashion designer Dolores Cortes, greets you with a friendly smile and invites you to relax in the comfortable seating area then explain you everything you need to know about the hotel facilities. After the whole check-in procedure they take you and your luggage to your room with a golf cart.
First, let's talk about the incredible pool facilities at SO/ Sotogrande. The resort boasts two stunning outdoor pools, each offering a unique experience. The upper pool is designed for families, providing a safe and enjoyable space for children to splash and play. The lower pool is reserved for adults, offering a more serene and tranquil atmosphere. A beautiful infinity pool offers breathtaking views of the lush green landscapes of Sotogrande and the sparkling sea beyond.
A few steps down from the adult pool, you'll discover the spa area, complete with saunas and an indoor pool. Whether you prefer a refreshing morning swim or a relaxing evening dip, this pool will be perfect for that. The spa also offers an array of services, including massages, facials, and manicures/pedicures if you're up for a pampering experience (we didn't have time to try them this time around).
Next to the spa, you'll find impressive gym facilities, which are truly worth your trip. Multiple dedicated areas are available, each catering to different workout preferences. From the latest state-of-the-art equipment, to a serene corner for Pilates, a functional training room, and even an outdoor space for boxing - this gym has it all. The aesthetic is sleek, clean, and undeniably chic, offering a motivating environment for your fitness journey.
When it comes to hotels, one cannot overlook the importance of food, and SO/ Sotogrande certainly entertains your tastebuds as well. Let's start with breakfast, which offers a plethora of options to satisfy all tastes. From healthy vegan avocado toast, egg white omelettes, chia pudding, Greek yogurt with granola, and porridge to a variety of egg dishes and traditional Andalusian breakfast options, the breakfast menu is a true delight. Don't miss the refreshing iced latte, which pairs perfectly with the meal, especially if you're a late-bird to the breakfast and it's getting hot already. In fact, the breakfast experience alone might be worth the trip from Gibraltar, whether it's for a leisurely Saturday brunch or a weekday treat. The venue where you can enjoy your breakfast or lunch is known as Society Clubhouse. They serve freshly prepared meals and the location offers stunning views.
In addition to the Society Clubhouse for breakfast and lunch, SO/ Sotogrande offers an array of dining experiences that highlight the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Spain, the Mediterranean, and beyond. You can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and delectable tapas at IXO Tapas and Bar and savor an exquisite selection of cocktails alongside mouthwatering tapas. A little tip: do try the cinnamon torrijas with cinnamon ice cream.
For a more refined dining experience, visit Cortijo Santa Maria 1962 that showcases the wonders of Andalusian cuisine through an array of tantalizing dishes. Starting from July 16th and until August 20th, Cortijo Santa Maria also hosts Michelin Chef Nicolas Isnard's 5-course menu. If you're just looking for a relaxed poolside snack, you can head to Marxa Chiringuito. Here, the focus is on charcoal grill and Mediterranean flavors, featuring fresh seafood, premium meats, refreshing salads, and a variety of refreshing beverages.
Another thing that can make or break your stay in any hotel is the hotel staff. And it's another plus for SO/ as everyone is kind and helpful with your needs. Last, but certainly not least, SO/ is a great destination for golf enthusiasts. While we didn't have a chance to try the course ourselves, it does promise an exquisite golfing experience as expected in Costa del Sol.
Discover the perfect blend of luxury, natural beauty, and exceptional golfing opportunities that await you at this extraordinary hotel.