I lived in Torreguadiaro for 3 years which is just outside Sotogrande - and loved it. Of course, summer is full of visitors (isn?t everywhere), the prices from Sotogrande have crept out to the nearby villages (which have now become towns), but I moved there alone and had no problem finding friends as there are numerous international british and other ex pats living in the area. Sotogrande itself can be a little high brow, but don?t be fooled, it is all just not who you are, but where you are seen to be! During the winter it can be very quiet, and during the Polo season - look out, it goes mad! But I would move back tomorrow if I could afford too, although I would choose a village outside of Sotogrande itself (mind you, I do not have private villa Sotogrande money!)
Enjoy - I did !