Marbella’s municipal borders incorporate a rich diversity of neighbourhoods, luckily the majority of them enjoys views of the wonderful La Concha Mountain watching over the town. Beachfront properties come at a high price, but there are many interesting districts of the town that are within a close drive to the sandy beaches, shops, amenities and famous nightlife.
For those seeking peace and quiet there is Cabo Pino, a tranquil Marina located between Banalmadena and Marbella. Blessed with many family friendly restaurants and interesting bars, Cabo Pino’s inland also boasts its own Cabopino Golf Course that has spectacular sea and mountain views. The beach of Playa de la Dunas-Carib is in fact the only stretch of sandy beach that consists of natural sand dunes and there is no urbanisation either, making it a perfect spot for young families with small children and sun seekers looking for relaxation. A few good beach bars round up the feel-good factor and pleasant neighbourhood.
Almost a complete contrast to the tranquil Cabo Pino is the district of Bahia de Marbella in the east of the town. A luxury urbanisation near Los Monteros, Bahia de Marbella property owners are right by the beach and close to the Hospital Costa del Sol. There are several 5-star hotels, golf courses like the famous Marbella Golf Club, Rio Real Golf and Santa Clara. Homeowners with children have the English International College almost on their doorstep – within a ten minute drive that is – and accessibility is easy, too, since Malaga Airport is located within a 50km drive.
For those with plenty of cash there is the Golden Mile, Marbella’s most luxurious and exclusive neighbourhood. Starting at the western edge of Marbella and snaking all the way to Puerto Banus, the Golden Mile is home to imposing mansions, stunning estates, extraordinary 5-star hotels, bars and fine dining restaurants not to mention golf courses and some of the finest sea and mountain views Marbella has to offer. Marina Marbella, Oasis, Santa Margarita, Rio Verde and Marbella Mar are just some of the seaside developments that have attracted property investors from around the world. On the mountain side there are Marbella Hill Club, El Batalal, La Capellina, Coto Real and Ancon Sierra developments to name but a few.
In the Sierra Blanca district of Marbella homeowners with properties perched 300 meters or more above sea level have not just stunning views of the sea and the rest of the town, but also views over the Golden Mile. Just a short trip down the hill will take property owners into the city centre, where all the amenities and services one could possibly want are located.
Puerto Banus is one of Europe’s most prestigious locations for property owners. Situated just before the small settlement of San Pedro de Alcantara, Puerto Banus is were the super yachts are moored and the rich and famous, as well as those who’d like us to believe they are, hang out. This part of Marbella has some of the best nightlife to offer anywhere in Spain from bars with alfresco dining to discos, piano clubs, traditional flamenco style bars and bars providing all manner of shows and entertainment. Shopping in smart boutiques, independent outlets for fashion, jewellery or accessories is just one way to spend time – and a lot of money – in Puerto Banus. It is the address for anyone seeking a glamorous lifestyle with plenty of fun and parties.
Golfers know the place most dear to their hearts will be in the district of Guadalmina, a beachside settlement situated just a ten minute drive from the glamour and nightlife of Puerto Banus. There is a 36 hole golf course within the urbanisation, but three more noteworthy golf courses are just on the doorstep: Atalaya Golf, El Paraiso and Monte Mayor. Boasting several health clubs as well as no fewer than three international schools and a large commercial centre with shops and amenities, Guadalmina is a great place for all the family.
Property prices can differ greatly from district to district. The right Marbella neighbourhood will depend not just on personal taste and aspirations but largely on budget.