In 2025, Sotogrande entered a new era of golf and lifestyle excellence: Almenara Golf was rebranded as The Alto Club, and alongside this transformation came the launch of the pioneering The Alto Club Golf Academy by Suzann Pettersen.
This evolution brings together a championship 18-hole course, a brand-new 9-hole par-3 layout, and a state-of-the-art Golf Academy, fully integrated within SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort.
With this, Sotogrande strengthens its position as one of Europe’s most desirable golf destinations.
This evolution brings together a championship 18-hole course, a brand-new 9-hole par-3 layout, and a state-of-the-art Golf Academy, fully integrated within SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort.
With this, Sotogrande strengthens its position as one of Europe’s most desirable golf destinations.
What is The Alto Club Golf Academy by Suzann Pettersen?
It is a next-generation golf academy built for players of all levels—from beginners to future professionals.
Located on the former Alcornoques loop, the academy focuses on:
Located on the former Alcornoques loop, the academy focuses on:
- Accessibility and fun
- High-level technology
- A community-driven training environment
- Performance development at every stage of the game
The Academy aims to become one of the most exciting and inclusive golf training destinations in Europe.
Who is Suzann Pettersen and what is her role?
Suzann Pettersen is a global golf icon:
- Two-time major champion
- Winning Solheim Cup captain
- One of the most influential figures in modern golf
As Global Ambassador of The Alto Club Golf Academy, she:
- Shapes the vision and values
- Influences the training philosophy
- Provides world-class insight and inspiration
- Helps elevate the academy to an international benchmark
Pettersen describes the project as “a place where people of all ages and levels feel welcome, supported, and inspired to get better.”
When did The Alto Club Golf Academy open and where is it located?
The Academy officially opened on September 1, 2025.
It sits within The Alto Club, on the land formerly occupied by the Alcornoques nine-hole loop, and fully integrated into the grounds of SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort.
It sits within The Alto Club, on the land formerly occupied by the Alcornoques nine-hole loop, and fully integrated into the grounds of SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort.
What facilities does the new Golf Academy offer?
The Alto Club Golf Academy includes:
- Toptracer-equipped driving range with natural grass and covered artificial tee lines
- Two swing analysis suites featuring:
- Foresight technology
- Swing Catalyst force and video analysis
- Custom club fitting services
- Multiple short-game areas, including greens and bunkers
- A newly designed 9-hole par-3 course (80–200 m)
- Night-time training access
The facility is engineered to support complete player development.
Who is the Academy designed for?
The academy is built for every type of player, including:
- Beginners discovering golf
- Returning golfers
- Intermediate to advanced amateurs
- Competitive juniors and aspiring professionals
- Families and children
Our philosophy is simple: everyone is welcome.
What coaching programs are available?
Programs run year-round and cover:
- Full-swing mechanics
- Iron play and short game (chipping, pitching, bunkers, putting)
- Course management and strategy
- Mental performance and competitive preparation
- Individual and group coaching
- Clinics, camps, and progression programs
Training is structured, personalised, and data-supported.
How important is technology in the Academy experience?
Technology is one of the academy’s signature strengths:
- Toptracer for real-time ball tracking and data visualisation
- Foresight GCQuad data for precise impact and ball-flight analysis
- Swing Catalyst multidimensional swing breakdown
This creates a transparent, measurable, and engaging training experience for all levels.
Is the Academy only for members?
No. The philosophy of The Alto Club Golf Academy is open and inclusive.
It welcomes:
It welcomes:
- Club members
- Local residents
- Visiting golfers
- Guests of SO/ Sotogrande
Its aim is to become a gathering place for golf lovers across the community.