Let's explore the Best Luxury Resorts on the Costa del Sol, Spain

What a magical place! I had the extraordinary experience of spending 3 months based in Estepona, Spain, on the Costa del Sol. In case you don't know where that is, have a look!

Estepona Spain

Let's explore the best luxury resorts on the Costa del Sol, Spain!

The Marbella Club was the original resort that basically started the area as a "destination." For a little history from their website:

"In 1947, Santa Margarita, an old finca of figs and pines, became the family’s Mediterranean hideaway. Having heard about life on the shores of the Mediterranean from his cousin Soriano, Prince Max took a drive down from his palace. In 1946, he fired up his Rolls-Royce Phantom and headed for southern Spain. Pausing for a picnic in a pine forest on the coast, led to the birth of a legend. His son, Prince Alfonso, returned the following year to buy this rural enclave."

What started as a villa (that is now their legendary Kid's Club) became over time a resort with 121 rooms and suites, 16 villas, and its own private golf course and riding stable. Count Rudi von Schönburg, who turned the small 20 room hotel into the icon it is today, has his own extensive story of princes and movie stars at Marbella Club. Read it here. Suffice it to say, Marbella Club is the icon on the Costa del Sol.

Marbella Club

But Marbella Club isn't, by far. the only extraordinary property on the Costa del Sol! Following its popularity, other resorts were established, each with their own unique identity so there is something for everyone.

For those looking for more a more lively St. Barth's type atmosphere, definitely head to Punta Romano and/or Nobu which are on the same property. The resort features headlining restaurants Nobu, of course, but also Cipriani and Coya among many others (20 to be exact). And who can forget the Six Senses Spa on site?!

Punte Romano/Nobu

If golf is your game, then the Anantara Villa Padierna Palace is the place to be. With three world-class courses on property, 1200 works of art, a private beach club, and an award winning Spa with 2000Sqm of Roman style baths, there is something for everyone here.

Anantara Villa Padierna Palace

And finally, if you are looking for privacy, peace and relaxation, but with everything you could ever want at your fingertips ( a golf course, beach club, spa, great gastronomic restaurants), then Finca Cortesín is the place for you. Further south in Caseres, closer to Sotogrande, Finca Cortesín is the epitome of sophistication and elegance. The owners are dedicated to exceptional service and attention, and it shows. From the lobby flowers, to the service at the beach club bar, to the beautifully designed outdoor spaces, everything at Finca Cortesín allows a guest to relax knowing that every need, every want will be graciously taken care of.

Finca Cortesín