If you’re planning your next trip abroad and are looking to book a villa holiday this summer, then there can be few better places to visit than the Costa del Sol. It’s a destination that really does have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for peace and relaxation are keen on a little action and adventure. The Costa del Sol’s has it all. We could definitely recommend every single one of the Costa’s destinations, but if there’s one place that stands out for us and shouts fun summer holidays, it has to be marvellous Marbella. It’s often called the rich man’s paradise, and it’s easy to see why. But there’s still fun to be had in this fabulous destination, without breaking the bank.
Marbella is a major city in Andalusia, and is located roughly half an hour’s drive from Malaga airport. Marbella is one of the region’s most popular beach resorts has built a reputation as being a playground for the rich, yet in many ways that reputation is undeserved. Yes lots of rich people do holiday here: but so do ordinary people too, attracted by beauty of the area, the Mediterranean, the rolling Sierra Bermeja Mountains and the year-round sunshine. What’s not to like?
Marbella is a city of two halves; the old town, Casco Antiguo and modern Marbella. Modern Marbella is a relatively recent development and has sprung up over the last 50 years or so. That’s down largely to the influence of one man – Prince Alfonso Hohenloe. It’s believed he accidentally stumbled on the area when his Rolls Royce broke down. The population at the time was only roughly 900 people. However, once he fell in love with it and opened the Marbella Club Hotel in 1954, the area has grown significantly.
Marbella is now a thriving tourist destination and perfect for a family villa holiday. The area boasts 12 superb beaches, water sports, beach clubs, countless golf courses, designer shops, casinos, top-notch restaurants, nightclubs and a multitude of First Class Hotels. Having said that; there is also more reasonably priced accommodation available too. So there really is a choice for everyone. You can shop or party til you drop, or relax and unwind by the pool. The choice is yours.
Then there is the Casco Antiguo, which is based predominantly around Orange Square, or the La Plaza de los Naranjos. Around the centre of Orange Square are 3 notable buildings: the 16 century Town Hall, the old Governor’s House and the Chapel of Santiago. All of these places are definitely worth visiting. The contrast with modern Marbella couldn’t be starker. The Casco Antiguo is really the epitome of old Spain: with tightly knit cobbled street, small boutiques, tapas bars, bodegas, art galleries and superb restaurants, the old town is one place that every holidaymaker must visit. If you want any further information about the old town or would like recommendations on what to see and visit, then you can always pop into the Tourist Information Office which can also be found on Orange Square.
