Forget What You Think You Know About Marbella, It's Time To Reframe ‘Marbs'

Elle

18-07-2025

In my early twenties, the annual girls' trip was all about searching high and low for any sunny coast that hosted the best party strips. We wanted the loud clubs, packed bars, and music that didn't stop until morning. But now, as I edge closer to 30, I find myself craving something a little different. Don't get me wrong, I still want my cocktails and a dancefloor moment, but these days, my friends and I have outgrown the all-night chaos. We're after a quieter luxury, without compromising on the option to dip into the nightlife, entirely on our own terms. Enter Marbella.
I always used to associate Marbella with TOWIE, thinking the whole 'Marbs' scene probably wasn't for me. But as it turns out, you really do have to experience a place before judging it by its reality TV reputation. Yes, the iconic marina strip is famed for its party scene and still delivers plenty of late-night fun should you and your girls fancy. But beyond the evening drinking, Marbella is rich in quieter luxuries. You just need to know where to look.
Just a short drive from the larger city of Malaga, where your easy three-hour flight from the UK lands, Marbella sits proudly along the Mediterranean coast. It's a beautiful little town with something for everyone. There's colour, chaos, and charm. The kind that makes you forget your Google Maps app and embrace exploring the old school way.
The great thing about the area, is that it's not just the beautiful old town of Marbella. There are plenty of other places to see just a short drive (or cheap Uber) away. You can play a round of golf at one of the multiple golf clubs around Nueva Andalucía (or stop at their bars if golfing isn't your thing), visit the stunning marina at Puerto Banus, or even take a day trip to explore the histories of Malaga.
Let's be honest, hotel hunting can feel overwhelming when every option looks like a dream. I arrived at the Kimpton Los Monteros Marbella Hotel, and let me tell you, this one truly takes the cake. Chic, Mediterranean, and undeniably luxurious, the newly refurbished interiors reflect Marbella's effortless history and glamour, something IHG Hotels & Resorts tend to do so well with their locations. The recently renovated, 195 room hotel boasts nothing but elegant interiors with the generously sized bar as the central anchor point of the hotel.
Beyond beautiful interiors, the hotel has a few signature touches woven seamlessly into the stay. There's a nightly Social Hour, perfect for a pre-dinner beverage, and then there's the handy 'Forgot it? We've got it!' service. Which, trust me, came to my rescue more than once. We've all been there: the toothbrush left in its holder at home, the forgotten hair bands, the cotton buds that somehow never make it into the bag. Well forget it, they've got it! A quick scan of the in-room QR code, and your forgotten essentials are swiftly delivered. On my second night, my newly purchased sandals had already begun their betrayal. Cue the familiar sting of blisters. One request, and within minutes, Compeed plasters arrived like a small act of heroism. Evening saved.
If you need a little restoration after your Spanish evening out, you needn't travel far. Head to the CODAGE Spa, conveniently nestled within the grounds of the Kimpton. Book in for a targeted massage or a personalised skincare treatment. This is the place to unwind, especially as Codage is known for its unique, expert-led approach to skin health. Not in the mood for a treatment? That's perfectly fine. You can simply enjoy some well-deserved self-care in the beautifully tucked-away spa. And the best part? It was blissfully quiet during my visit. My perfect kind of spa experience.
During our stay, we also enjoyed the host of other amenities that Kimpton had to offer. Including a trip to La Cabane. Just 5 minutes down the road, located right on the oceanfront, was the most beautiful exclusive beach club. Currently celebrating its 60th anniversary and recently redesigned by Dolce & Gabbana. The place is screaming sophistication. Truly feels like a privilege to be welcomed inside. As a Kimpton guest, you get priority access, and honestly, it's something you'll want to take full advantage of. The culinary offering is equally impressive, with a dessert menu that's hard to resist. My standout? The tiramisu, served in a Dolce & Gabbana Moka Express Bialetti—yes, really.
Talking of food…there are four onsite eateries, all of which are spearheaded by the amazingly talented, Michelin starred chef, Jose Carlos Garcia. His passion of curating a true tasting experience using local produce really shines true throughout the hotel. Nestled in the heart of the property, located off to the side of the main pool, sits the Jara restaurant. It most certainly is the main attraction (although what isn't the main attraction in this hotel?). On our first night at Kimpton, we sat down at the Jara for a late dinner, very Spanish you might say. We took part in a tasting experience that included a variety of best offerings. When you go, you must try 'Malaga's Homemade Shrimp Croquettes', my favourite of the night. I'm a sucker for a starter.
Another great option of hotel would be the The Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa in Benahavis. Buried away up in the hills, it offers a more 'escape to the countryside' experience, while still having easy access to the town. With a full-service spa, a great bar, and golf options for those that fancy it. Honestly, why would you ever want to leave?
I was genuinely surprised to learn that Jose Carlos Garcia owns and runs his own gastronomic restaurant in Malaga, set right on the Muelle Uno dock. So of course, we had to make a visit to the Michelin starred spot. The attention to detail poured into his food makes the food feel like true pieces of art. This isn't just eating, it's experiencing
Walking in, the place felt like an exotic, calm retreat. We were greeted by Jose himself, who took the time to talk through our oncoming experience. As he spoke about his inspirations, you could feel the passion and care, which most certainly translates. I must give a notable mention to my top-rated dish: The Zurrapa Spiral. A masterpiece. Though, after learning just how many ingredients (and precession) this piece takes to make, I reluctantly accepted that this would not be something I was making at home anytime soon.
If you're looking for something a little more laid back (and a lot of fun), Pizzeria Picasso in Puerto Banus is a must. Located on the harbour, this Italian eatery offers super yacht and oceans views, but I promise you'll be taking pictures of the food instead. Their generous portion sizes of pasta and beautiful pizzas are so delicious they have earned a spot of TikTok fame, one of the most recommended places to eat at Puerto Banus. Be warned though, we had to go early, otherwise the queues for a table can span lengths of the harbour front in the summer months.
If, like me, you struggle to sit still and crave a glimpse into local life, the Old Town is a must. Bursting with colour, independent boutiques and food spots, it's easy (and entirely delightful) to lose yourself in the winding streets.
I had no idea at the time, but when we first arrived at Kimpton, we were informed of Feria De San Bernabé, Marbella's annual festival in honour of its patron saint, San Bernabé. The celebration stretched far and wide throughout the city and falls in early June, typically around the 11th, and brings with it a burst of Andalusian energy. Through marvellous food, drink and dancing, you'll get a true glimpse into Marbella at its most alive. Seeing little girls twirling in their colourful flamenco dresses—ruffles, polka dots and all, instantly transported me back to childhood, when I'd begged my dad to buy me one during our annual trip to southern Spain. Nothing quite compares to a Spanish fiesta, and this one is truly worth experiencing.
Had enough of the Old Town? Puerto Banus is only a short drive away and there is plenty to get involved in there. The glamourous marina is, of course, known for its late-night antics. However, there is so much more to dive into. Everything from exquisite dining, shopping and sunbathing to yacht charters and water sports. You name it. On our trip we took a boat out and were lucky enough to spot a pod of dolphins, the experience was truly magical, watching over the edge of the boat as the dolphins swam alongside us, seemingly wanting to play. Afterwards we dropped anchor a little closer to the coast, and took to the sea via paddle board, a perfect way to end our day at sea.
All in all, I truly must say, my perspective of Marbella has completely changed. This place has so much more to it beyond the strip. It's a city rich in luxury, culture, and just the right amount of fun. It's a southern Spain escape that will certainly be on my list of locations for my next girls' trip, and I'll have all the intel.
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