With so many destinations competing for the crown of being the ultimate holiday retreat, it can be difficult to decide just where to travel to next. We love Marbella and we’re convinced that you will too. Read through our Top 9 Reasons to Visit Marbella and you’ll soon want to try it out too…
- The sunshine: This almost goes without saying, but with an average of 320 days of blue skies a year, the sunshine coast lives up to its name. Whether you want to head out to sea or lounge on the beach all day, you’ll be certain to gain a golden tan.
- The food: Spanish cuisine is world renowned, but as an old fishing village Marbella’s seafood expertise is one that is tried, tested and perfected by years of experience. For the authentic Andalusian taste, dine al fresco and try sardinas al espeto (sardines skewered and barbequed, done best in an old fishing boat on the beach) or a plato de pescaíto frito (portion of assorted fried fresh fish). Michelin starred Restaurante El Lago is a favourite of ours, with its more than twelve years’ experience in delivering the highest quality food, you’re sure to leave satisfied. Newly opened gourmet food market Ambrosía in Puerto Banús also offers a wide range of gastronomic delights.
- The culture: Marbella has no shortage of culture; for example, the Ralli Museum in Marbella is an art gallery that features work by the likes of Dali, Miró and Wifredo Lam. Away from the museums, there are many landmarks, including the Basilica de Vega del Mar – an old Visigothic church– and the ruins of a Moorish castle in the centre of Marbella’s Old Town.
- The beaches: With more than 25km of coastline, Marbella’s beaches are suited to every taste and budget. Many have been awarded blue flag status and are among the best in Spain. Marbella has also perfected the beach club; from the extravagance of Ocean Club (just west of Puerto Banús) and Nikki Beach (east of Marbella in Elviria) to the relaxed ambiance of Puro Beach or the exclusivity of La Cabane in Los Monteros, there is a club that caters for every preference.
- Marbella Old Town: There is nothing quite like wandering the streets of a Spanish town’s old quarter, and Marbella’s is no different. Its winding cobbled streets and colourful doorways make for picture perfect photographs, and a short walk along them will lead you to the stunning Plaza de los Naranjos (Orange Square). The Balcón de la Virgen, the zone above the Calle del Peral and the Plaza de Altamirano, there is a range of cosy and authentic restaurants in which to try a variety of Spanish dishes and typical Andalusian tapas.
- Sports: With some of the best golf courses in the world, numerous tennis clubs, equestrian centres and a mountain range on your doorstep ready for climbing, the variety and quality of sport in the area marks Marbella as a top spot for the outdoorsy type. Our favourites are: Greenlife Golf, Tennis Group Academy, Equestrian Centre El Rocío in Coín and, for walkers, the Ruta del Refugio de Juanar.
- Water Sports: Pedalos are readily available on many beaches, as is the opportunity to rent jet skis, banana boats and kayaks. For those wanting to enjoy the Mediterranean without getting wet, in Marbella port and Puerto Banús visitors are able to hire motorboats and yachts from companies such as Flyblue.
- Day trips: In the unlikely event of running out of things to do in Marbella itself, there are numerous local towns and villages worthy of a visit. We recommend the beautiful whitewashed village of Casares for an escape into the mountains, or a trip to Ronda for a little history and beautiful views in an elegant country town famous for its architecture, fine food and rich ambiance. For an outdoor adventure, you can also go horse riding in Coin performing Horse Routes where you can visit, for example, the sanctuary of Virgen de la Fuensanta, the bridge of the Rio Pereila constructed in 1891 or the Film City.
- Puerto Banús and the ultimate VIP treatment: Puerto Banús has long been an essential stop on any party-goer’s wish list and with the likes of Tibu and Aqwa Mist dominating the nightclub scene, it is clear to see why. It is all about having a great time. The port is also home to designer brands, awe-inspiring mega-yachts and luxury cars that set the scene for one of Europe’s classic glamour spots.
All of this means that the town is the perfect holiday destination for people of any age and interest, and with any budget – but be warned, you may not want to leave.
If that applies to you, then we have a comprehensive selection of homes for sale and also to rent in Marbella. Give us a call and we can help you make your dream come true.
Massimo Filippa
