Sotogrande 2025

Sotogrande was the first stop in my polo calendar for my gap year, and it set the bar high for the rest of my future travels. Sotogrande is often described as the dream polo destination, and with good reason. Not only does Sotogrande host some of the best polo tournaments in the world on arguably some of the best fields in the world, but it is also covered in endless golf courses, beaches, and most importantly, delicious food.

This year, I spent the summer at Polo Valley, a gorgeous polo club focused on not only playing polo but bringing in new players and providing opportunities for outsiders to experience the allure of the polo world. Polo Valley gave me the perfect entrance into the small community of living and working in the area. While working there, I was doing grooming and playing practice, stick and balling and teaching lessons. It was a great experience that allowed me to see firsthand the type of organization and backing needed to run a polo club in an extremely competitive and dynamic environment.

Immersing myself in the world of Sotogrande granted me the opportunity to build many new friendships and valuable connections. I became good friends with many of the grooms working around Sotogrande for various teams and polo clubs, and competed with and against them in very competitive 7v7 football matches. I was even lucky enough to compete with them in the grooms' football tournament, where we unfortunately lost in the semis on penalties. In addition to forging new friendships, I was able to catch up with old friends from around the world who came to play and enjoy the summer in Sotogrande.

In addition to playing polo, I would often go golfing at one of the many golf courses that surround Sotogrande. The golf courses were not only abundant but equally stunning. With views of the sea and gorgeous coastline, it made it easier to forget about your score and enjoy the scenic view (emphasis on easier). I also enjoyed playing padel and football down at the local sports center, whether you won or lost, you were always joined for good company at the local bar afterwards.

Finally, besides the sport and good company, there was the incredible food and stunning beaches. Multiple times a week during siesta time (12-4 pm), I found myself relaxing at one of the many beaches surrounding Sotogrande, not a bad place for a midday break! The food was the final exclamation point to an incredible summer, whether it was paella by the beach or tapas in the local bars; each meal was delicious and better when shared with good company and a cold drink.

My first season in Sotogrande was the perfect way to start my summer and my Gap year, playing lots of polo, exploring Spain through food and sport, and making many friends along the way. The end of the season always comes too soon, and you always end up wishing you had a couple more days to play golf, one more stick and ball, or one more day to catch up with someone you haven't seen all summer. However, these are the same things that keep everyone coming back year after year. It is safe to say I have experienced the Sotogrande dream, and I can't wait to go back!