Oasis of calm
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE: Sotogrande is the perfect place to chill and relax
AHAVEN for the discreetly wealthy and famous, Sotogrande stands as a beacon of luxury on the Cadiz coast.
With a scene-stealing location and near-perfect weather, it’s not surprising that this is one of Spain’s most desirable places to live. Head down the Costa del Sol west towards the famous pillars of Hercules (Gibraltar and Jebel Musa in Morocco) and you will eventually come to Sotogrande.
Roughly 100km from Malaga, Sotogrande is where business moguls and A-List types move to upgrade. The mastermind behind the extraordinary transformation from farm to an enclave of privilege, where most people seem to have have a yacht (or at least a rhib), was the American-Filipino, Joseph McMicking. As president of the Ayala Corporation, he had
Once simply farmland, Sotogrande has blossomed into Andalucia’s largest privately owned residential development, writes Dilip Kuner
overseen the creation of Forbes Park, a prestigious Philippine property development. Inspired by this success, he dreamt of replicating its exclusivity on the Mediterranean.
In 1962, McMicking tasked his cousin, Alfredo ‘Fredy’ Melian, with finding the perfect location. Af ter exploring the region by motorbike, largely on dirt roads, Melian discovered an 1800-hectare estate near Gibraltar.
The farmland had been owned by a succession of rich and famous – the Duke of Arcos, the Larios fami ly and then financier Juan March, arms and tobac
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co dealer, founder of the eponymous science and arts institution and once the richest man in Spain. It seemed fated for grander use – and it ticked the boxes.
“We bought the land at Sotogrande without having seen it, like a pig in a poke,” said Mc
Puerto de Sotogrande
Sotogrande is an outdoor haven
A timeless legacy
SIXTY years ago, Joseph McMicking envisioned a European escape that combined the glamour of the French Riviera with the relaxed charm of family life. His dream took root in the unspoiled beauty of Andalucia, where rolling hills, cork oaks, and olive groves provided the perfect canvas.
Ben Bateman, a lifelong resident, has seen the enclave grow and develop into one of Europe’s premiere destinations.
Born and raised amidst the estate’s lush landscapes, Bateman’s deep-rooted connection to Sotogrande is evident in his desire for preserving its unique character.
Understanding
After a brief stint at university in Bristol, the irresistible pull of home brought Bateman back to Sotogrande. His return marked a pivotal mo ment in his life and career, as he took the helm of the family-owned real estate business, Holmes Prop erties.
With a deep under standing of the local market Bateman has seen how Sotogrande’s real estate landscape has developed.
“Sotogrande has remained true to McMicking’s original vision,” says Bateman.
“It’s a place where people can relax and enjoy life without pre tense. Families thrive here, and the range of
How one local family has seen Sotogrande grow and develop
outdoor activities is unparalleled.”
A keen sportsman himself, Bateman shares a passion for the active lifestyle that defines Sotogrande.
From world-class golf courses to polo matches and sailing, Sotogrande offers something for everyone. Bateman added: “I love skiing too - and it is one of Sotogrande’s great advantages that I can be on the Sierra Nevada’s ski slopes in two-and-a-
“There are not many places in the world where you can quite easily be on the slopes in the morning then on the beach in the afternoon.” Yet, it’s more than just a playground for the wealthy. A thriving international school, fine dining options, and a growing remote work community have solidified Sotogrande’s position as a year-round destination.
The Bateman family’s own story is a testament to Sotogrande’s enduring appeal. Ben’s father fell in love with the area on a golfing holiday and soon relocated the family to establish a real estate business.
“Sotogrande has a unique ability to make people feel at home,” says Bateman. “Generations of families return year after year,
DES-RES
and Melian stayed on as director of works. As the only bar for miles, the Antigua Venta Toledo served as an early HQ. The team had experience, connections but, best of all, patience and plans.
Inspired by golfing communities like Palm Beach and Pebble Beach in the US, McMicking was determined to build the community around a golf club and, in 1963, the world’s top golf course designer, Robert Trent Jones, was flown in to design the course. The Real Club Sotogrande was Trent Jones’ first European venture and the first course in Europe with a new-fangled automated irrigation system. None other than Spain’s top modernist architect, Luis Gutierrez Soto (Callao Theatre and fnac building, Madrid), designed the low-slung clubhouse – still avant-garde today, as well as the ultra des-res course-side bungalows. McMicking poached the direc
Spanish Open and Ryder Cup. With another three courses in Sotogrande, and almost 70 within driving distance (no pun intended), McMicking helped the Costa del Sol become one of Europe’s top golfing destinations.)
A keen polo player, Enrique Zobel built a polo ground by the beach. La Playa, inaugurated in 1965, wasn’t Spain’s first (the Jerez Polo Club dates back to 1872), but it revived polo passion and set the social tone. Although la Playa has gone, Sotogrande’s Santa Maria Polo Club is considered one of the best in the world.
The first beach club appeared below the golf course. Cucurucho (cornet), named for the conical roof, still exists today, though it’s bigger and grander, and officially called Trocadero.
And also in 1965, the first hotel, the modernist, luxury motel style Tennis Hotel, now the Hotel Encinar. Word spread and the rich, powerful and discreet began moving in. Jaime Ortiz-Patiño of the Bolivian tin mining dynasty, diamond magnate Philip Oppenheimer, and banker and advisor to Onassis, the flambuoyant George Moore were among the
drawn to the same relaxed lifestyle and strong sense of community.”
Orion, the company that acquired Sotogrande in 2014, has been instrumental in preserving its character while embracing new opportunities. The growing popularity of remote work has brought fresh energy to the area, and Sotogrande’s stable property market has proven resilient to economic downturns.
As Sotogrande moves into its seventh decade (it celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2023), it’s clear that McMicking’s dream has not only endured but flourished. This special corner of Andalucia, shaped in part by the vision and dedication of individuals like Ben Bateman, continues to offer a lifestyle that is both timeless and inspiring.
BEACH CLUB: The original Cucurucho is now the Trocadero, which maintains the high standards expected in Sotogrande
SPORTS: From water sports to polo and golf,
counts, scions of business followed, and, later politicians (including Tony Blair and Fabian Picardo), and a smattering of celebrities from former England manager Glenn Hoddle and golfer Tony Jacklin followed.
Most houses are architectural gems. The Domecq family mansion is now the clubhouse of the San Roque golf course, but unless you are a houseguest you are unlikely to see the best of the rest, some of which, like the Zobel house and Biddle House, have preservation orders on them.
American diplomat Nicholas Biddle’s house, built by Javier Carvajal fresh from designing the Spanish Pavilion at the New York 1963 World’s Fair, cost $160,000. Sadly, prices have gone up: When Joseph Kanoui, head of the syndicate that bought Cartier, put his Casa La Manzana on the market for €26m in 2006, it was the most expensive house for sale in Spain.
McMicking’s plans for Sotogrande extended to the kind of person who came and what they built. “A Sotogrande based on money would be the most horrible society imaginable,” he said. However, it was only when Sotogrande was running out of cash and needed to open up to a new market of buyers that more affordable housing was developed.
Franco had helped the Sotogrande shareholders by waiving the rule that prevented foreigners purchasing land in Spain. But he stuffed them by closing Spain’s border with Gibraltar in 1969. With the N-340 under construction, the trek to Malaga airport was arduous. The jet set couldn’t jet in, and Sotogrande fell into debt.
In the late 70s, the decision was taken to build apartments on the left bank of the Guardiaro. In 1978, to appeal to all-year residents, the International School at Sotogrande (ISS) was set up – initially in the old cattle sheds of one of the farms, Cortijo de Paniagua.
By the time the border reopened in 1985, Sotogrande was a different kind of place, still off the beaten track – it would be another 17 years until the AP-7 motorway hooked it up, but more connected to the real world. Some of the residents even had day jobs! McMicking’s vision had always included a
marina with canals and islands of apartments with yacht views, and the 1980s developments included just that, in shape of the Puerto Deportivo Sotogrande, completed in 1987, three years before his death. The construction of this mini-Venice was as good as saying times might change, but the dream of Sotogrande as a beautiful playground, a gorgeous sanctuary, remains intact. As he predicted: “Sooner or later the Costa del Sol is going to be mobbed but Sotogrande will be an island of order in the chaos.”
T is time to dust off your jodhpurs and head over to the playing fields of Sotogrande as it hosts the prestigious Gold Cup from August 19 to 31. This annual highlight of the World Polo Tour attracts thousands of spectators to the Ayala Polo Club. As part of the month-long International Polo Tournament – the 53rd edition of the event – the Gold Cup showcases the crème de la crème of the sport. With three levels of competition – low, medium, and high handicap – there’s something for every polo aficionado.
SOTO GOLD
The action is already in full swing, with the Bronze and Silver Cup events being contested, and is open to all comers to view.
Beyond the thrilling matches, there is a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of activities. You can explore the stylish boutiques, enjoy live music performances, or unwind at the lively ‘After Polo’ tent.
Families are well catered for with a dedicated children’s area featuring many exciting attractions. And when hunger strikes, there is no shortage of delicious morsels to tempt you.
Development has been controlled and is sympathetic to the natural surroundings POPULAR: The beach remains unspoilt,
Avda. Mar del Sur s/n, Torreguadiaro, San Roque
Facial
Paseo
THE Rio Guadiaro is more than just a river; it's the lifeblood of Sotogrande, shaping its landscape, ecology, and lifestyle. Originating in the Serranía de Ronda, the river wends its way through stunning scenery before reaching its outlet to the sea at Sotogrande.
Here it forms an estuary which is a haven for wildlife, particularly migrating birds, and is now a protected natural area, boasting a rich biodiversity. But the area attracts more than birdwatchers. The waters are also a popular spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling world.
Sotogrande's proximity to the river has fostered a unique blend of
luxury living and natural beauty. Beyond its ecological significance, the Guadiaro is a water sports enthusiast's paradise. Canoe trips on the river offer a delightful way to explore the surrounding area and soak up the sun.
TRANQUIL: The Guadiaro is popular among kayakers and is a wildlife haven where thousands of migratory birds stop off on their journeys
RIDING HIGH ON FASHION
PREPARE to be enchanted as SO/ Sotogrande SPA & Golf Resort once again transforms its idyllic gardens into a breathtaking runway for the return of Riding Between Seams.
This extraordinary fusion of fashion and equestrian artistry is set to captivate audiences on August 17.
After a sold-out summer debut, which saw 270 people attend, the show is back with even more glamour and grandeur.
Equestrian extravaganza returns with plenty of style to SO/ Sotogrande
Imagine the most coveted haute couture from Andalucian designers accompanied by noble Spanish stallions, all set to a symphony of classical music. This is the magic that awaits at Riding Between Seams.
Award winning designers Alejandro Andana (from San Roque and winner of the Tio Pepe Flamenco Catwalk 2021 and SIMOF 2022), Angel Bar rera (who won the Jerez 2024 newcomer contest at the Tío Pepe Flamenco Catwalk) and Jose Juan Hurtado Revidiego (who won the Young Designers contest at SIMOF 2024) will showcase their latest collections, embodying the essence of Andalucian style.
SPECTACULAR: The equestian and fashion worlds come together
From the fiery passion of flamenco-inspired designs to the timeless elegance of haute couture, this event promises a feast for the senses.
For those seeking an elevated ex-
perience, exclusive VIP boxes offer unparalleled views of the spectacle, complemented by exquisite culinary delights crafted by Chef Leandro Caballero. As the sun dips below the horizon, guests can immerse themselves in an atmosphere of opulence and sophistication.
Riding Between Seams is more than just a fashion show; it’s a celebration
of Andalucian culture and artistry. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable event. Tickets are selling fast.
Event Details: Riding Between Seams SO/ Sotogrande SPA & Golf Resort August 17, 10pm.
Tickets: €45 General Admission, VIP Boxes from €1,200
Just call Collect
Sign up to Collect Corner Sotogrande and say goodbye to missed deliveries
SOTOGRANDE’S private online shopping pick-up point and its monthly plan, for only €30, provides the best solution to avoid wasting your holiday waiting to receive the orders you placed.
This service lets you enjoy your holiday without worrying about wasting precious free time waiting for parcels to arrive.
Thanks to this business, you can make your online purchases on any national or international website and use the Collect Corner address in the Mar y Sol Shopping Centre as the destination address for your orders. Once the package arrives (items up to 2m x 1m in size can be ordered) you will receive a QR code and you will be able to pick it up at Collect Corner when it is most convenient for you. This solution is ideal for avoiding the hassle of waiting at home, providing a reliable, secure alternative with an easily accessible lo-
cation and easy parking.
Collect Corner is open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 7 pm and Saturdays from 9 am to 2 pm (Sundays and Bank Holidays closed).
Collect Corner offers a monthly plan that allows you to receive or return up to 25 packages in 30 days for only €30.
Annual plans are also available for residents and frequent visitors at €199/year. In addition, Collect Corner also offers assistance and advice on customs formalities and allows foreign residents to use their telephone number if they do not have a Spanish one so they can place their orders. This service is perfect for both occasional and regular Sotogrande residents, and even for customers from Gibraltar, who face difficulties with online shopping due to the border crossing. You can also send parcels or documents worldwide with DHL, print and scan documents and leave a set spare of keys for emergencies.
Subscribe to their monthly plan at www. collectcorner.es. For more information, you can contact Collect Corner at +34 676 43 18 43 or by email at info@collectcorner.es
IN THE KNOW
SOTOGRANDE is the antithesis of glitz and glamour. Its understated elegance and quiet charm have made it a haven for the world's elite.
Unlike its flamboyant neighbour, Puerto Banus, this exclusive enclave offers respite from the spotlight.
Behind its gated communities, a diverse array of high-profile indivi duals find sanctuary. From royalty and A-list celebrities to sports stars and bu siness titans, Sotogrande caters to those seeking privacy and sophistication.
If Porches and handbag pooches are sta tus symbols in Marbella, Landrovers and la bradors are more to the taste of the unshowy Sotogrande set.
But while the community oozes influence and affluence, it is anything but snobby. People come here to leave their high-powered life be
hind and live like ordinary folk, even though many of them are quite the opposite. You don’t hear too much about the resort’s celebrity scene and that’s the way they like it so you may be surprised at some of the names on our
The famous faces who retreat to Sotogrande to escape the cameras of Puerto Banus
list of well-known public figures who either holiday or have a des res in
They include former British prime minister Tony Blair (bottom left), who is said to own property in the enclave and has been spotted on various holidays there, as well as current Gibraltar leader Fabian Picardo and former leader Peter Caruana, who reportedly invested in Sotogrande to indulge his passion for golf.
The Botin family, who own San tander bank, are said to own property in Sotogrande, as well as the wealthy Aya la family, who own their own private polo field.
British princes Harry and William played polo in the annual summer tour naments at Santa Maria polo club. Their father Charles did too.
On the subject of royals, keep your eyes peeled for French aristocrat Louis Alphonse de Bourbon, Duke of Anjou, who brings his wife Maria Margarita Vargas Santaella and three children to Sotogrande to
enjoy the opulent paradise. They are big fans of polo and spend a lot of time at Santa Maria Polo Club, especially in August when you could find them clapping from the VIP sidelines during the International Tournament.
Spanish TV celebrities, such as Ana Rosa Quintana, are regularly seen at the polo events in the resort as well as the many restaurants.
British actors, meanwhile, such as Hugh Grant (above), have been seen in the resort, while DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles bought a property in the marina a few years ago. Footballers have long been well represented in Sotogrande, with Argentinian legend Lionel Messi (inset) not only owning a home there, but also having part ownership of the luxurious MIM Hotel, which is due to reopen next year after extensive re -
Other footballers drawn to the resort have included Glenn Hoddle, the former England manager and former Liverpool star Glen Johnson, while Irish motorsport legend Eddie Jordan has a villa there.
A long time visitor, he described the place as the ‘nicest urbanisation in Europe’ with some of the ‘best weather’.
Discover the charm of The Tipsy Mermaid bar
Discover the charm of The Tipsy Mermaid, a delightful bar that has become a beloved gathering spot in Sotogrande! Marc and Alison fell in love with this beautiful area during a week-long vacation and decided to make it their home. With their warm hearts and inviting personalities, they have transformed this little corner into a hub of friendship over the past year.
Often referred to as the “Cheers bar” of Andalucía, The Tipsy Mermaid is always ready to meet the needs of its customers. Marc and Alison are dedicated to expanding their business, not just as a café bar but also as a tapas bar (in the next month...work in progress), bringing even more delicious offerings to the table.
Join us for a cozy atmosphere, friendly faces, and a menu that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind after a day in the sun or a lively spot to enjoy with friends, The Tipsy Mermaid is the perfect destination. We can’t wait to welcome you always with a big smile!
TEL: 856 56 48 28
Tuesday-Saturday:10am-11pm Sunday: 10am-9pm Monday closed Puerto Sotogrande, Ribera del Marlin Local 11
Sushi paradise
HIS family have been running one of the oldest restaurants in Sotogrande for decades so when Juan Moncayo decided he wanted to do sushi, there were no half measures.
His amazing new Japanese section at his waterfront restaurant Don Diego in the port is simply stunning.
With a local chef who's got sushi in the blood (her dad being the country manager for a huge sushi chain) she knows exactly what quality of rice and fish she needs.
Massaging a lovely cut of bluefin tuna from nearby Barbate, Sulaema, from Algeciras, knows what she's looking for.
“I've learnt to tell the quality immediately and we get all our tuna from one of Spain’s top suppliers in Barbate,” she explained.
“It's a pleasure to work with such good quality in-
amazing quality avocados from the nearby Guadiaro valley you've got some special tuna California rolls.
And then when you couple these super fresh avocados with cuts of ‘pez mantequilla’ (butterfish) and scallops for a tar-
Push the boat out more and go for the Lobster rolls with caviar gredients.”
When coupled with
tare you're on for a surefire winner. Push the boat out more and go for the Lobster (yes Lobster!) rolls
wife's from Bolivia) or northern Spain, so he's always on the lookout for the best quality cuts or new
There is a much wider menu than just sushi
SUSHI SUPREME: Chef Renato (below) chooses only the best ingredients for Sulaema (right) to delicately prepare, while the meat is from Galicia
ternational in flavour with an ex-
The steaks come from Galicia (rubia gallega) and are aged to
“Minhota gourmet is the best steak you can eat in Europe right now,” claims Juan, who buys them directly from farms in Galicia and Northern Portugal.
He's been serving similar quality fare at his other restaurant Moncayo in nearby Pueblonuevo for decades so speaks with authority.
It's hard to disagree when it comes out rare alongside a hot stone over which you cook it to your perfect
While I've no inclination to take a pudding after my meat feast I'm persuaded to try a Brownie of white chocolate which comes with pistachios and strawberries.
I'm not disappointed and thankfully am able to spend the next hour relaxing watching the boats go by in the nearby port, as the afternoon sun finally starts to drop.
But that’s not all at Don Diego in Sotogrande port
