Tag Archives: Rita Jordao

Golf Courses and resorts, LPGA Tour

Sotogrande – Spanish LPGA Tour rookie Carla Tejedo, appointed as Global Ambassador

August 4, 2026 – Sotogrande has announced rising Spanish golf star Carla Tejedo as its newest Global Ambassador, further strengthening the destination’s commitment to supporting the development of young Spanish golf talent.

The 24-year-old from Castellon joined the LPGA Tour for the first time in 2026 and has already made an impressive start at the highest level of the women’s game. Tejedo recorded a tied-fifth finish on her LPGA debut at the Fortinet Founders Cup in March and has since added three further top-25 finishes. Most recently, she finished tied for 23rd at the AIG Women’s Open at Royal Lytham & St Annes, marking the best major championship result of her career to date.

Her appointment comes at an exciting time for golf in Sotogrande, following the recent opening of The Alto Club Golf Academy. The Academy is the destination’s latest major investment in the game and a facility designed to support players at every stage of their golfing journey.

From aspiring tour professionals and elite juniors to adult beginners and children discovering golf for the first time, the Academy offers a complete pathway for development. Its facilities include expert coaching programmes, a Toptracer-equipped practice range with floodlighting for evening play, dedicated short-game areas and a new soon-to-launch nine-hole par-3 golf course designed by Ryder Cup legend Manuel Pinero.

Rita Jordao, Director of Marketing at Sotogrande SA, said: “Carla represents everything we want this partnership to stand for. She is an exciting young Spanish player who has professed through junior, amateur and collegiate golf to earn her place on the LPGA Tour, and we are incredibly proud to support her as she begins this next stage of her career.

“Her appointment also reflects our wider commitment to investing in the future of golf. Through facilities such as The Alto Club Golf Academy and La Reserva Club, we want Sotogrande to be a place where talented young players can fulfil their potential, while also creating opportunities for people of every age and ability to discover and enjoy the game.

“Together with Mimi Rhodes and Suzann Pettersen, Carla adds another exceptional role model to our family of ambassadors and reinforces our support for women’s golf at every level,” she added.

Tejedo’s agent, Trinifold Sports CEO, James Byers, added: “Sotogrande will provide a globally revered and comprehensive training and practice facility for Carla Tejedo. We are delighted with Carla’s appointment as an ambassador; she is extremely proud to represent one of the most esteemed and respected venues in Europe.”

Tejedo’s journey to the LPGA Tour began with a successful junior and amateur career in Spain. A long-standing member of the Spanish national setup, she helped her country win the 2023 European Ladies’ Team Championship and claimed individual victory at the 2022 World University Golf Championship.

She also represented Louisiana State University between 2021 and 2024, contributing to ten team victories during her collegiate career. After securing a top ten individual finish at the 2024 NCAA Championship, Tejedo was named to the All-NCAA Championship Team.

Turning professional in 2024, Tejedo competed on the Epson Tour the following season, making 13 cuts from 18 appearances and recording four top-ten finishes, including a runner-up result at the Copper Rock Championship. She finished 14th in the Race for the Card to earn LPGA Tour membership for 2026.

Carla Tejedo said: “It is a real privilege to become a Global Ambassador for Sotogrande. As a Spanish player, I have always been proud of the incredible golfing heritage we have in this country, and Sotogrande is one of the places that represents it at its very best.

“The investment being made in the future of the game, particularly through The Alto Club Golf Academy, makes this partnership especially meaningful to me. I hope my own journey can help inspire more young players to believe there is a pathway from junior golf in Spain to competing on the world stage.”

Tejedo joins fellow LPGA Tour player Mimi Rhodes as a Global Ambassador for Sotogrande, reflecting the destination’s growing support for women competing at the highest level of the game. Two-time major champion and former Solheim Cup captain, Suzann Pettersen is also a Global Ambassador for The Alto Club Golf Academy, where her experience and high-performance insights help shape its coaching philosophy and player development programmes.

The partnership further strengthens Sotogrande’s position as one of Europe’s leading golf destinations, combining world-class championship courses with the facilities, coaching and development pathways needed to support the next generation of the game.

Golf Courses and resorts

Sotogrande – A significant climb into top-30 of Golf World Top-100 World Resorts rankings

December 29, 2025 – Sotogrande has further enhanced its standing as one of the world’s leading golf destinations, making a significant climb of ten places to number 29 in the newly published Golf World Top–100 World Resorts ranking. The jump reflects the destination’s reputation for high-quality golf, exceptional accommodation, and a lifestyle offering that blends Andalusian character with a modern sense of refinement. 

The ranking highlights Sotogrande’s breadth of world-class facilities across its iconic 11310 postcode, an area that has become synonymous with premium golf and lifestyle living in southern Spain. Home to internationally renowned courses including Real Club Sotogrande and Real Club Valderrama, alongside the championship course at La Reserva Club, the destination also encompasses an elegant residential community and wide-ranging leisure amenities, from a beach club to extensive sports facilities, continuing to set the benchmark for excellence. 

The resort is also home to The Alto Club and Golf Academy, relaunched following a complete transformation of the former Almenara layout. The new concept delivers a relaxed, high-quality and accessible experience for players of all abilities, shaped by golf legend Suzann Pettersen in her role as Global Ambassador. The Alto Club is also a key training base for Ladies European Tour star Mimi Rhodes, who is sponsored by the Club and regularly uses the facilities as part of her professional preparation. The result is an innovative and ambitious offering that is the first of its kind in Spain. 

The new ranking publication describes Sotogrande as a destination with strong dual appeal, combining elite championship golf with a broader lifestyle proposition. The climb into the world’s Top-30 reinforces Sotogrande’s position as one of Europe’s most complete environments for golf travel, offering visitors a mix of standout courses, scenic landscapes and year-round Mediterranean living. 

Rita Jordão, Director of Marketing for Sotogrande SA, welcomed the latest accolade. She said: “This ranking once again reflects the strength of the Sotogrande experience, and the care invested in every aspect of the destination. From La Reserva Club’s acclaimed course and lifestyle amenities to the evolution of SO/ Sotogrande and the transformed Alto Club, we are proud to present a destination that continues to provide guests with memorable and varied experiences.”

Golf Courses and resorts

Sotogrande – With the latest rankings, strengthens its position among Europe’s finest golf destinations

November 13, 2025 – Sotogrande has reaffirmed its status as one of Europe’s premier golfing destinations, with each of its three world-renowned courses once again recognised among the continent’s finest in the newly released Golf World Top 100 European Courses 2025 and National Club Golfer European Top 100 Resorts rankings.  

In Golf World’s definitive Top 100 European Courses – published in early November – Sotogrande’s venues continue to impress, with two of the three courses featured climbing higher in the standings.  

Real Club Sotogrande rises to #10, strengthening its position among Europe’s elite; La Reserva Club advances to #52, an impressive result despite several major new entries to this year’s list; and Real Club Valderrama remains a benchmark of European championship golf pedigree at #6 in the list.  

Golf World’s accompanying supplement ranks Sotogrande among Europe’s most exceptional golf destinations. La Reserva Club, which climbs in this year’s ranking, is praised for Cabell B. Robinson’s design that “makes superb use of its hillside terrain” and is “presented to an exceptional standard.” Meanwhile, Real Club Sotogrande secures its place in Europe’s top ten as a “Robert Trent Jones Snr classic presented immaculately,” recognised for delivering an “enduringly high-calibre experience.” 

 Sotogrande’s collective strength is further endorsed by National Club Golfer’s European Top 100 Resorts list, where the destination holds firm at #3, retaining its title as the highest-ranked golf resort in Spain. The upcoming edition again celebrates Sotogrande’s exceptional blend of world-class golf, Andalusian lifestyle, and timeless appeal.  

“These latest rankings confirm Sotogrande’s enduring appeal as Europe’s leading golf destination,” said Rita Jordão, Director of Marketing for Sotogrande SA. “We are proud of the continued recognition across our courses in Sotogrande, particularly for La Reserva Club, which embodies the evolution of the Sotogrande experience: elegant, contemporary, and uncompromising in quality.” 

Visitors can experience Sotogrande’s world-class golf first-hand, with limited tee times available at Real Club Valderrama, Real Club Sotogrande, and La Reserva Club. The best way to secure access to these exclusive courses is through a stay-and-play golf package with the multi-awarded SO/ Sotogrande Spa and Golf Resort.

The resort is also home to The Alto Club and Golf Academy, the destination’s fourth course, recently relaunched after a complete transformation of the former Almenara course to offer a relaxed, yet high quality, accessible experience for players of all levels with golf legend Suzann Pettersen as global ambassador; a truly innovative and bold concept – the first of its kind in Spain. 

Golf Academies, Golf Courses and resorts

Sotogrande – Mimi Rhodes, new touring professional ambassador of Sotogrande and The Alto Club Golf Academy

4 August 2025 – Sotogrande has announced a new partnership with leading Ladies European Tour star, Mimi Rhodes, who will represent the destination as its official touring professional ambassador.

Currently sitting at #1 on the Ladies European Tour rankings, Rhodes has already secured three victories on tour this season and is firmly in contention for the prestigious Order of Merit title.

This exciting collaboration sees Rhodes return to her roots, with a significant personal connection to Sotogrande. Having grown up playing and practicing in the region as a resident, she is very familiar with the world-class golf facilities and tranquil environment that have long made Sotogrande a home for elite athletes and discerning travellers alike.

As part of the agreement, Rhodes will base her ongoing training and preparation at The Alto Club Sotogrande and the brand-new Alto Academy, located at the SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort. She will feature The Alto Club branding on her apparel and golf bag throughout the remainder of the season and beyond.

Rita Jordão, Director of Marketing for Sotogrande SA, commented: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Mimi back to Sotogrande in an official capacity. Mimi being someone who knows and loves Sotogrande as deeply as she does, makes this partnership all the more special. She exemplifies the values of our community, so we really look forward to supporting her on her journey.”  

Mimi Rhodes also expressed her excitement at the partnership, saying: “Sotogrande has always felt like home to me. I’ve spent some of the most formative years of my life here, practicing, growing, and enjoying everything the destination has to offer. I’m thrilled to now represent The Alto Club and Sotogrande on the Ladies European Tour and beyond and look forward to returning regularly to prepare and recharge in-between tournaments.”

This announcement follows the recent unveiling of Suzann Pettersen as global ambassador for The Alto Club Academy. Set to open in the coming weeks, the Academy will feature state-of-the-art training facilities, a professional-level performance zone, and a par-3 course. It will also serve as a key practice location for Rhodes.

Golf Companies, Golf Courses and resorts, Golf Turism

Sotogrande – Strategic partnership with Seventy2 Golf, appointed as its official sales agency

January 17, 2025 – Sotogrande has appointed Seventy2 Golf as its official sales agency, effective next week. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen Sotogrande’s golf tourism offering, particularly with the forthcoming launch of the Golf Academy at the SO/ Sotogrande Spa and Golf Resort.

Rita Jordão, Director of Marketing at Sotogrande, commented: “Partnering with Seventy2 Golf will allow us to leverage their expertise in engaging with golf tour operators and promoting golf destinations. This collaboration will help us to further promote the new Golf Academy and the world-class golf packages that we have available through the SO/ Sotogrande Spa and Golf Resort to a global audience.”

Giles Greenwood, Managing Director of Seventy2 Golf, added: “We are excited to work with Sotogrande to promote their impressive golf facilities. With our extensive experience in golf tourism sales and marketing, we are confident that we can help Sotogrande expand its reach in the global market and increase bookings for their hotel packages and golf offerings.”

Sotogrande will work with Seventy2 Golf to increase sales through trade and B2B tourism networks, including the introduction of bespoke events with professionals who will offer coaching trips for consumers.

The new Golf Academy is set to complete the golf offering in Sotogrande, and become a premier destination for golfers of all skill levels to practice and learn the game. Featuring a nine-hole par-3 course designed by renowned golfer Manuel Piñero, state-of-the-art practice facilities, and professional coaching zones, the academy will complement the existing 18-hole Golf course at the SO/ Sotogrande Spa and Golf Resort.

More information about the golf packages available at SO/ Sotogrande Spa and Golf Resort, visiting: https://so-hotels.com/en/sotogrande/golf/golf-packages/.

REAL STATE

Sotogrande – Crowned World’s Finest Residential Golf Development

November 1, 2024 – Sotogrande has been named the #1 residential golf development in the world by Golf World, cementing its status as the ultimate destination for private luxurious living and world-class golf.

This recognition places Sotogrande ahead of renowned global developments, as the most desirable place to buy a dream home beside the finest fairways.

The Golf World rankings highlight Sotogrande’s unique blend of luxury real estate, breathtaking landscapes, exceptional privacy and security, and a world-leading array of golf courses. The estate has long been synonymous with luxury living and premier golf, offering residents and visitors an idyllic lifestyle. From world-famous courses like Real Club Valderrama, Real Club Sotogrande, and La Reserva Club, to its growing collection of exclusive residential developments, Sotogrande sets the benchmark for excellence in both golf and high-end living.

“To be at the helm of a ranking among such esteemed company is testament to the recent strategic investment in Sotogrande, and our commitment to continuous improvement for our residents over 60 years,” said Rita Jordao, Director of Marketing at Sotogrande SA.

“This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to offering not just world-class golf, but a unique lifestyle that blends exceptional, creative real estate with extraordinary amenities. We continue to push the boundaries while remaining thoughtful of the environment in creating an unmatched living experience.”

Sotogrande continues to innovate with its latest real estate projects within La Reserva, the fourth and newest district in Sotogrande. New developments such as The Seven, The 15 (in which Villa Aqua was just sold for €12 million), and Village Verde are setting new standards in luxury living, while Villa Noon (located at The 15) is Spain’s first zero-emissions luxury villa, demonstrating Sotogrande’s dedication to sustainability and innovation in high-end living.

In addition to its #1 ranking in residential developments, Sotogrande has also risen significantly in Golf World’s latest European Resorts rankings. Golf World placed Sotogrande at #6 in its Top 100 European Resorts list, climbing 11 places. Sotogrande also retained its #3 position in National Club Golfer’s 2024 European Resorts rankings, claiming the accolade of being the #1 Spanish resort.

Sotogrande is home to four championship golf courses, all conveniently located within close proximity – just 15 minutes by car. Among these, Real Club Valderrama holds the #1 position, Real Club Sotogrande is ranked #2, and La Reserva Club sits at #7 in Spain’s top 100 courses, cementing the area’s status as the epicentre of world-class golf in the region.

Almenara Golf is located at the SO/ Sotogrande Spa and Golf Resort, and the upcoming Almenara Golf Academy will feature a comprehensive range of world-class amenities, including a natural grass tee line, a covered tee line with a VIP area, Toptracer driving range technology, a custom fitting centre, a bar and café, as well as night-time practice facilities.

Sotogrande’s five-star hotel, SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort, has also been recognised as Spain’s Best Golf Hotel by the 2024 International Property Awards, a prestigious programme celebrating excellence in global property and real estate. Established 31 years ago, the awards honour outstanding achievements across residential and commercial sectors, spotlighting companies that set the highest standards in the industry.

Golf Courses and resorts, Ladies European Tour

INFINITUM – New partnership with Natasha Fear, up-and-coming Ladies European Tour star

August 25, 2021 – Infinitum, formerly known as Lumine, has confirmed an exciting partnership with Natasha Fear, one of Spain’s newest golfing stars on the Ladies European Tour.

The 23-year-old from Alicante, who recently partnered global star Paula Creamer, at the Aramco Team Series – Sotogrande, joins the lifestyle and leisure golf resort as it positions itself as one of Europe’s prime destinations.

As part of the agreement, Natasha will have access all year round to the facilities at Infinitum, allowing her to train and prepare for any upcoming events on the Ladies European Tour. In 2021, Natasha used the Infinitum facilities as part of her pre-season practice, leading up to the first event of her tour-calendar year in Italy.

During the visit, Natasha encouraged and inspired a group of female members, showcasing her true passion, by hosting a ladies clinic at Lakes as part of the resort’s pledge to support the R&A’s Women in Golf Charter (WIGC), a campaign dedicated to growing the game of golf for women, both on and off the course. Infinitum is currently the only club in Spain who have signed up as a signatory of the WIGC, as they continue to trailblaze new opportunities in Catalonia.

As part of this exciting partnership, Infinitum and Natasha have also demonstrated their commitment to sustainability, working together on new ideas to help drive change in Spain. From September, Natasha will be using a golf bag made from recycled plastic bottles (over 50 in total), designed and manufactured by Wilson Golf, and branded by Infinitum.

Speaking about her new partnership with Infinitum, Natasha Fear said “Turning up to a resort, who are already so driven by female participation within the game, makes me feel so welcome, so honoured to be able to share my skills with new people. The golf courses at Infinitum are immaculate, the surfaces there will enable me to practice all the shots that I could face out on tour this year, I am excited to spend more time down in Tarragona”.

Infinitum, home to three outstanding golf courses and award-winning facilities will hopefully enable Natasha to improve her consistency, providing tour-standard conditions all year round. The partnership will also include some exciting interviews and videos with some of the game’s greatest brands. Look out for the Infinitum logo, which will be added to her tournament bag in the very near future.

Rita Jordao, Sales and Marketing Director said: “We are privileged to have been able to appoint Natasha as an official Infinitum Ambassador. Natasha has taken a keen interest in our commitments both on and off the golf course and we are excited to support her journey. Watching her teach and play is so inspiring, she is a spectacular golfer, and we are here to support her throughout her career.”

Pictures: LET and Infinitum.

More information at www.infinitumliving.com.