Marbella Living.
Perched beside the Mediterranean blue waters, Marbella shimmers as a diamond in the sun. Home to spectacular stretches of sandy beaches; lush greens of unparalleled golf fields, like the Golf Valley; magnificent sailboats, and exclusive designer boutiques. It is the crown jewel of Europe, home to the elite and host to grandiose events that are the envy of the continent, such as Starlite, among countless others. Marbella has become a real mecca for the wealthy and far-famed, reigning as the top destination on the Costa del Sol is further solidified by its global appeal, with international real estate buyers flocking to the area.
Life in Marbella: Exclusivity and Unparalleled Lifestyle
For those lucky enough to call Marbella home, everyday life here is anything but ordinary. “Pure living,” as it is often described, is a perfect blend between the tranquility of the Mediterranean and the dynamism of luxury living.
Have you ever wondered what the most prestigious places in the world have in common with Marbella?
Marbella, once considered a mere coastal town, has been transformed into a gleaming gem on the continent’s tourist map, becoming a coveted destination for the discerning traveler, thanks to the emergence of the elegant and stylish Puerto Banus, built in 1970 by José Banús.
International Residents.
Marbella has an international population, with a growing ex-pat community. This diversity is evident in the city´s nightlife and culture, making Marbella a unique and exciting place to live or visit.
Eco-friendly.
Marbella is becoming a more eco-friendly and sustainable city. With many eco-friendly project developments underway and charging points accross the city for electric cars.
Marbella is worth visiting.
The city has gorgeous natural surroundings, sandy beaches, elegant stores, Michelin-starred restaurants, exciting nightlife, significant sports complexes, historical attractions, tranquil parks, and the kindest and most welcoming individuals you’ll ever meet.
Marbella Real Estate, home is where heart is.
Many high-end properties with an elegant and tasteful design, boasting of stunning views. The interiors are equally beautiful, showcasing the best modern design and features. Properties in Marbella are some of the most expensive in the world. Ranked on the top among Spanish destinations for the sale of the most coveted properties, Marbella has long been a hotspot for the wealthy and the discerning. Indeed, it is no exaggeration to say that nearly a third of all premium real estate transactions in Spain take place in Marbella, the jewel of the Costa del Sol.
The properties in Marbella are a testament to the city’s elegance and refinement, offering not only spectacular views of the vast sea, the abundant greens of golf courses, and the majestic mountains; but also high-quality amenities, customized to fit the necessities of even the most demanding people. The region is teeming with elite private, confidential areas and a myriad of options for those in search of a new home, be it a sleek contemporary residence or a grandiose palace-like villa.
Landmarks and places of interest
Old Town (Casco Antiguo)
The old town of Marbella includes the ancient city walls and the two historical suburbs of the city, the Barrio Alto, which extends north, and the Barrio Nuevo, located to the east. The ancient walled city retains nearly the same layout as in the 16th century. Here is the Plaza de los Naranjos, an example of Castilian Renaissance design, its plan laid out in the heart of Old Town after the Christian reconquest. Around the square are arranged three remarkable buildings: the town hall, built in 1568 by the Catholic Monarchs in Renaissance style, the Mayor’s house, which combines Gothic and Renaissance elements in its façade, with a roof of Mudejar style and fresco murals inside, and the Chapel of Santiago, the oldest religious building in the city, built earlier than the square and not aligned with it, believed to date from the 15th century. Other buildings of interest in the centre are the Church of Santa María de la Encarnación, built in the Baroque style starting in 1618, the Casa del Roque, and the remains of the Arabic castle and defensive walls; also in the Renaissance style are the Capilla de San Juan de Dios (Chapel of St. John of God), the Hospital Real de la Misericordia (Royal Hospital of Mercy) and the Hospital Bazán which now houses the Museum of Contemporary Spanish Engravings.
One of the highlights of the Barrio Alto is the Ermita del Santo Cristo de la Vera Cruz (Hermitage of the Holy Christ of the True Cross), built in the 15th century and enlarged in the eighteenth century, which consists of a square tower with a roof covered by glazed ceramic tiles. The Barrio Alto is also known as the San Francisco neighborhood, after a Franciscan convent formerly located there. The so-called Nuevo Barrio (New Town), separated from the walled city by the Arroyo de la Represa, has no monumental buildings but retains its original layout and much of its character in the simple whitewashed houses with their tiled roofs and exposed wooden beams, orchards and small corrals.
Historic extension (Ensanche histórico)
Between the old town and the sea in the area known as the “historic extension” (ensanche histórico), there is a small botanical garden on Paseo de la Alameda, and a garden with fountains and a collection of ten sculptures by Salvador Dalí on the Avenida del Mar, which connects the old town with the beach. To the west of this road, passing the Faro de Marbella, is Constitution Park (Parque de la Constitución), which houses the auditorium of the same name and the Skol Apartments, designed in the Modernist style by the Spanish architect Manuel Jaén Albaitero.
Marbella “Diamond” Mile.
Marbella Golden Mile is a truly distinguished location to call home, offering residents an unparalleled standard of living with access to all the amenities and luxuries one could desire. Nestled along the sparkling Marbella, the Golden Mile shines as a beacon of splendor, and luxury, drawing the affluent and well-known to its glimmering shores. Its sun-soaked setting and abundance of luxury properties make it a prime destination for those seeking the finer things in life. The Marbella Golden Mile, in particular, has become a magnet for those seeking the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity. The area offers not only the pleasures of the sea, sun, and sand but also the rich historical and cultural sites that are a feast for the eyes. But Marbella Golden Mile is not just a place for those who seek leisure and relaxation; it also has a diverse range of dining options that can rival any major city in the world. And as the night falls, the town transforms into a pulsating hub of entertainment and nightlife; no wonder it’s a top choice for vacationers and tourists alike.
The prestigious Puente Romano Hotel located on the Golden Mile.
Marbella, the charming coastal enclave of the Spanish sun, has always been hailed as the Spanish counterpart of the famous French Riviera destination, St. Tropez. The shopping streets, the bars, and villas for sale in Marbella; all of them exude an air of lavishness and grandeur that can only be found in the most exclusive of destinations. But, this level of glamour and prestige has recently been surpassed, transcended even, in Puente Romano with the most thrilling restaurant in all of Europe
For example with the world-renowned Nobu restaurant Marbella famed for his culinary creations, the celebrated chef Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa: a gastronomic phenomenon, renowned the world over for his unique and delicious fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, has brought the first Nobu restaurant in Spain, now open at Marbella’s Puente Romano Beach Resort and Spa. His restaurants, of which there are nearly fifty scattered across the globe, are a true testament to his talents. To dine at a Nobu restaurant is to be transported to a realm of sensual pleasure, where each bite is a symphony of flavors, and the atmosphere is one of refined elegance.
An Unparalleled Luxurious Experience in Puente Romano.
The demand for apartments for sale in Puente Romano is really strong, and people continue to flock to the area. Retail and restaurant investment and innovation continue to drive the economy as tourists and investors flock in, eager to experience the glamour, dining, and nightlife. The destination, already a favorite among holidaymakers, has risen even higher through the ranks of the world’s most luxurious and sought-after places to visit.
Puente Romano is a place where you can indulge in delicious food, relax, unwind, and have a blast with top-notch nightlife. It is a true feast for the senses, an oasis of pleasure, and a celebration for the soul. It has already become a top choice for celebrity holidaymakers and solidified Marbella’s reputation as a worthy rival to St Tropez.
Relaxing lifestyle in Nueva Andalucía.
Nestled amidst lush greenery and rolling hills, Nueva Andalucía is a haven for the stylish and discerning. It is a sought-after destination for those seeking to live and own property in an area that exudes both elegance and luxury. This picturesque region offers a wide selection of modern and contemporary villas that are sure to impress even the most discerning of buyers. Whether you’re interested in a spacious apartment in an upscale community or a grand villa with breathtaking views, Nueva Andalucía is sure to have something that meets your needs. One of the major draws of Nueva Andalucía is the abundance of amenities that it offers. The area is home to some of the most attractive golf courses on the coast, providing residents with ample opportunities to indulge in their favorite pastimes. In addition to this, Nueva Andalucía is home to a wide variety of trendy restaurants, as well as healthy eateries and organic markets, catering to those who place high importance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Another major draw of Nueva Andalucía is its central location. The area is situated close to the famous Puerto Banús and Puente Romano, making it easy for residents to enjoy all that these iconic destinations have to offer. Whether you are looking for high-end shopping, dining, or entertainment, you’ll find it all just a short distance from Nueva Andalucía.
Nueva Andalucía is a true food lover’s paradise, offering an endless array of restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you are in the mood for a chic and contemporary Lebanese restaurant like Occo, or an innovative and fun dining experience like the Mosh Fun Kitchen, you will find it all here. For those looking for a more upscale dining experience Breath Restaurant is a must-visit, with its stunning views and elegant atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The Magna Cafe is another great option, providing a picturesque setting perched atop a golf course, offering panoramic views of the area while you indulge in your meal.
And the best part is all of these options and more are conveniently located within walking distance of your villa or apartment, making it easy to explore the diverse culinary offerings of Nueva Andalucía. The area is teeming with trendy restaurants, bars, and cafes, so you’ll never be short of dining options.
For those who prioritize health and wellness, Nueva Andalucía offers a wide range of options as well. Visit Dezentral or Fresh Juice bar for a variety of healthy meal and drink options, perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Green Village Organic Food Market is another great option for those looking for fresh, organic produce. Whether you are looking for a gourmet dining experience, a healthy meal, or a casual bite, Nueva Andalucía has something for everyone.
San Pedro de Alcántara
At the heart of San Pedro de Alcántara are two industrial buildings of the 19th century: the Trapiche de Guadaiza and the sugar mill, which now houses the Ingenio Cultural Centre. The 19th century heritage of San Pedro is also represented by two buildings of colonial style, the parish Church and the Villa of San Luis, residence of the Marqués del Duero. Next to San Pedro, near the mouth of the river Guadalmina, are some of the most important archaeological sites in Marbella: the early Christian Basílica de Vega del Mar, the vaulted Roman baths of Las Bóvedas (the Domes) and the eponymous watch tower of Torre de Las Bóvedas. The important archaeological site of Cerro Colorado is located near Benahavis; it features a chronologically complex stratigraphy that begins in the 4th century BC within a Mastieno (ancient Iberian ethnicity of the Tartessian confederation) area, then a town identified as Punic, and finally a Roman settlement. A series of domestic structures built behind the city walls, and corresponding to these different stages of occupation recorded in the archaeological sequence of the site, characterise the settlement as being fortified. A hoard of three pots filled with silver coins of mostly Hispano-Carthaginian origin, and numerous pieces of precious metalwork, along with clippings and silver ingots, all dating from the 3rd century BC, were found here.
District of Las Chapas
In the eastern part of the municipality in the district of Las Chapas is the site of Rio Real, situated on a promontory near the mouth of the river of the same name. Here traces of Phoenician habitation dating to the early 7th century BC were discovered in excavations made during an archaeological expedition led by Pedro Sánchez in 1998. Bronze Age utensils including plates, carinated bowls, lamps and other ceramics of Phoenician and indigenous Iberian types have been found, as well as a few Greek examples. There are two ancient watchtowers, the Torre Río Real (Royal River Tower) and the Torre Ladrones (Tower of Thieves). Among the notable tourist attractions is the residential complex Ciudad Residencial Tiempo Libre (Residential Leisure City), an architectural ensemble of the Modernist movement, which has been a registered property of Bien de Interés Cultural (Heritage of Cultural Interest) since 2006.
Beaches
The 27 kilometres (17 miles) of coastline within the limits of Marbella is divided into twenty-four beaches with different features; however, due to expansion of the municipality, they are all now semi-urban. They generally have moderate surf, golden or dark sand ranging through fine, medium or coarse in texture, and some gravel. The occupancy rate is usually high to midrange, especially during the summer months, when tourist arrivals are highest. Amongst the various notable beaches are Artola beach, situated in the protected area of the Dunas de Artola, and Cabopino, one of the few nudist beaches in Marbella, near the port of Cabopino. The beaches of Venus and La Fontanilla are centrally located and very popular, and those of Puerto Banús and San Pedro Alcántara have been awarded the blue flag of the Foundation for Environmental Education for compliance with its standards of water quality, safety, general services and environmental management.
Golf Paradise.
Nueva Andalucia, otherwise known as the “Golf Valley,” is a golfer’s paradise. This picturesque region is home to not one, but three world-class golf courses, all located close to one another. First, there is the renowned Las Brisas Golf. This 18-hole course boasts a challenging layout, with well-manicured greens and fairways that are sure to test even the most experienced golfer. The course is surrounded by an array of luxurious properties, many of which have incredible views of the greens. Next, we have Los Naranjos Golf, another 18-hole course known for its beautiful setting and well-maintained fairways. This course is a favorite among golfers of all skill levels and offers a great challenge for those who seek to improve their game. Finally, there is Aloha Golf, which is also an 18-hole course known for its challenging layout and stunning views. Each course is surrounded by marvellous frontline golf properties; perched on the greens. Imagine waking up and hopping on your golf cart to take you straight to the club. It’s a golfer’s dream come true.
Nueva Andalucia isn’t just a vacation spot, it is the place chosen by many international families looking to relocate, also due to the fantastic international Aloha College, which is situated in the heart of the neighborhood. This school offers a top-notch education for children of all ages, making it a perfect choice for families with school-aged children.
If you seek a new home in Marbella, Nueva Andalucia should be on top of your list. Its central location and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect site for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The properties in Nueva Andalucia are simply breathtaking, with luxury villas and apartments in gated communities that offer the perfect blend of style, comfort, and security.
Puerto Banus.
Marbella´s flagship Puerto Banus is a hub of activity and home to many amenities, including luxury shops, high-end restaurants and international companies. This means that residents of Marbella have easy access to all the amenities of a bustling port while still being able to enjoy the peace and tranquility of a residential neighborhood.
For beach enthusiasts, the picturesque neighborhood of Marbella is the perfect destination. With the world-renowned harbor of Puerto Banús, this area boasts some of the most exclusive and fashionable beach clubs and restaurants. The sandy shores and crystal-clear waters of Puerto Banus beaches are a true paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Marbella: A destination worth considering for the present, future, and long term.
As the world continues to grapple with financial uncertainty and instability, many are left wondering where they should put their money. For those in search of a luxury vacation home, the city of Marbella in Spain may just be the perfect option. Despite the ongoing challenges, Marbella continues to see growth and increased popularity, making it an attractive destination for holiday home investors.
Marbella’s real estate market has proven to be resilient and stable, with apartments and villas for sale being seen as sound long-term investments. The city’s luxurious lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and thriving nightlife and dining scene make it an ideal location for a holiday home. The city’s continued growth and development ensure that there will always be something new and exciting to discover, making it a desirable destination year after year.
Furthermore, the abundance of opulent villas for sale in Marbella makes it a perfect option for those looking for a more private and exclusive vacation experience. These properties offer not only a comfortable and elegant place to stay but also a sound financial investment. Marbella’s luxurious and thriving lifestyle is something that many would want to experience, and owning a piece of this city’s real estate can make it a reality.
Though Marbella’s success as a property market is promising, it is important to remember that it operates on the same fundamental principles as any other market; these are: Location, location, location! In short, the real estate market in Marbella holds great potential for investment success, yet a thorough understanding of the market is crucial for making smart decisions. That’s why we recommend consulting with us to make the most of your investment strategy in Marbella.
For more information about luxury property for sale in Marbella you can view our Marbella property area guide, use the property database search facility at the top of this page or you can contact us.