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Blog 2/23/2022

SO playful: SO/ Sotogrande brings a slice of fun to sunny Sotogrande

Sotogrande has been waiting for a hotel like this. The area itself is a planned lifestyle community that sits between olive groves and quiet(ish) beaches on Spain’s sunniest side (otherwise known as the Costa del Sol). As is typical for the SO/ brand, this hotel is all about unconventional luxury and, most importantly, fun – whether that’s a brightly coloured wallpaper, pool party with top DJ on the decks, or bespoke cocktail list in one of its six food and drink spots. Factor in design-led interiors and its heritage as a revamped cortijo and you’ve got the perfect place to sunbathe away the summer – whilst taking lots of snaps for social media, of course. 

Life in colour

The lively resort is on the site of Cortijo Santa Maria de la Higuera (try saying that in one breath!), which was a traditional Andalucian country house overlooking the sea. The SO/ team collaborated with local artists, artisans and designers to revamp the cortijo whilst telling the stories rooted in this land. No detail has been spared – from wallpapers inspired by Andalucian fans to archways and fluid lines reflecting the cortijo’s original features. They’ve also collaborated with designer Dolores Cartes to create funky, colourful patterns at every turn – whether that’s a wallpaper, staff uniform or aluminium water bottle.

From the land

Put simply, you won’t go hungry here. There are six bars and restaurants to choose from, with each showcasing the best of Andalusian cuisine and produce. El Cortijo is, as you might guess, based on traditional cortijo food – think tapas, seafood and freshly grilled meats eaten alfresco — whilst new pop-up Society (opening in 2022) sees a host of acclaimed chefs taking it in turns to transform the restaurant into a new, theatrical space.

Simply entertained

A key part of the SO/ ethos is fun — and as such, there is no shortage of activities on offer. The hotel has its own personalised cocktail, which you can sample alongside other delectable drinks at one of its three bars; we like MIXO (a blue-tiled bar sitting under a ceiling of plants with a cracking playlist) the best, although outdoor lounge HI-SO is where you should head come sunset. As befits a space with three swimming pools, pool parties are a must in summer, with acclaimed DJs and music artists heading to the deck to perform into the evening. 

Insider tips

Make sure to book into the spa, which is so seamlessly blended with the well-landscaped gardens that it has a living roof. Book a slot in the flotation tank to well and truly relax.


When you reach the top of the spiral staircase, look down; it’s been designed to look like an Andalucian fan.


Keep an eye out for all the little treats the hotel staff leave out for you, beginning with a welcome dessert in your room.





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