Once a sleepy little fishing village, Marbella has grown into one of the beloved cosmopolitan resort areas on Spain’s Costa del Sol. It has all of ingredients for a perfect holiday – sunshine, beaches, excellent resorts, golf, history, and terrific cuisine. It has 26 kilometres of coastline worth of exploring. Whether you’re in the mood just to sit on the beach with a good book, or anxious to become involved water sports or golf, Marbella provides holidaymakers with a perfect balance between relaxation and activity.
Its proximity to the mountains brings with it opportunities for hiking and rock climbing, too. Culture lovers will have their days full of sightseeing. The historic quarter has typical Andalusian charm with white washed, building facades, flower boxes, and ornate ironwork. Drop into the Greater Church of la Encarnacion, built in the 16th century and the remains of an Arab fortress from the 9th century. The city’s Roman roots can be seen at the baths of Guadalmina and the grand villa of Rio Verde. The cultural scene is very rich indeed. This is where artists like Picasso, Miro and Dali were inspired. To see some of their work, visit the Spanish Contemporary Engraving Museum, featuring pieces from the 19th and 20th centuries. No holiday to Marbella would be complete with indulging in the local cuisine. Try the fried fish, gazpacho, and ajoblanco (a cold soup with a wonderfully nutty flavour, thanks to almonds, mixed with olive oil and garlic). Enjoy these typical dishes along with the excellent sweet dessert wines that are produced in the area.
If you feel like venturing farther, visit towns like Istan (famous for its springs), Ronda (an Old World Spanish village), or the natural beauty of Sierra de las Nieves Nature Reserve. They are all within reach during your Marbella holiday.
The boutiques and shops feature the best of international designer labels and luxury goods.
It’s not just foreign tourists who visit. They are plenty of visitors from all over Spain who come to enjoy the sunshine and scenery.
The town squares are excellent for people watching – old men playing chess, kids playing football, and couples cuddling on benches.