A chic Spanish city has historic charm, over 15 miles of sun-drenched sandy beaches and a famous marina surrounded by boutique bars and restaurants
It may be a playground for the rich and famous but one Spanish destination on the Costa del Sol has something to offer all travellers from couples to families and those looking for a historical or cultural experience.
Spain has a huge number of resorts for tourists to visit whether they are after a relaxing beach holiday or a more adventurous experience off the beaten track. One city in the south of the country on the sunny Costa del Sol has remained a favourite since the 1950s and it’s not hard to see why.
Marbella sits at the foot of the Sierra Blanca mountains and on the coast, which means its landscape is stunningly beautiful. There are over 15 miles of sun-drenched, spacious beaches making it a hit with visitors who want a relaxing traditional break by the sea. The family friendly Playa Alicate with its crystal clear shallow waters is great for families as is Playa de la Fontanilla, while beach clubs such as Nikki Beach and Ocean Club provide the fun for partygoers.
The glamorous marina of Puerto Banus to the southwest of Marbella is famed for its luxury yachts, exclusive shops selling designer brands and first-class restaurants and vibrant nightlife. Royals, celebrities and sports stars have been flocking there since the 50s staying in the many exclusive villas or on-board a super-yacht.
But for those who don’t have the deep pockets of an A-lister, there are plenty of other places to visit in the area. Water and theme parks will keep the kids entertained for hours and the historic quarter of the city with its white-washed buildings, cobbled streets and remains of a ninth century Arab fortress make for a more cultural experience.
The town dates back to Roman times and there’s an abundance of archaeological remains to be found at the mouth of the River Verde. Near San Pedro de Alcantara remnants of the Roman colony of Cilniana, which was destroyed by an earthquake in the 4th century, are one of the most intriguing sites on the coast and Roman baths can be explored close to the beach. Walking tours are one of the best ways to discover all the historical sites the area has to offer.
Marbella is also famed for its impressive, well-kept golf courses – there are 19 in the area – making it a premier destination for fans of the sport. There’s also various water sports to enjoy on the beaches as well as boat tours for dolphin spotting or to watch the sunset along the breathtaking coast from the sea.
Visitors have shared their experiences on Tripadvisor. One said: “Marbella Old Town is just great, better than I thought. It’s a picturesque neighbourhood with narrow streets and plenty of restaurants. The best of it is the old castle wall, plaza de los Naranjos and Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación. There are many narrow picturesque streets full of restaurants and greenery. The place is definitely worth having an hour or so to walk about and just get lost in this quaint, picturesque old town.”
Another said: “Playa de la Fontanilla is the center city beach. The particularity of this area are the many Chiringuitos, beach restaurants that offer sunbeds and wonderful fish and seafood menus you can eat with your feet in the sand before a siesta on your sunbed under the umbrella with the gentle sea breeze.” A visitor to Puerto Banus commented: “Great for watching, cars, ships, stores, restaurants, bars, clubs and people with money and without 🙂 In the morning see the sunrise and in the evening the sundown. Great colors.”
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