For over 70 years, Marbella Club – a legendary hotel on the Costa del Sol – has been a celebrated luxury destination attracting the world’s elite. Founded by Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe in 1954, this iconic hotel began as a beach club and has grown into one of Europe’s most prestigious retreats. Having visited the property a couple of times already, it is an all-time favourite of mine, which I cannot seem to be able to skip when I am in the South of Spain.
What makes Marbella Club a legendary hotel like no other?
The Marbella Club Hotel is not just a place to stay, but an experience in itself. Nestled along the iconic Golden Mile of Marbella, the hotel’s legendary service begins the moment you arrive. With stylish 121 rooms and suites, complemented by 16 exclusive villas, each with private gardens and pools, every accommodation is designed with the utmost attention to detail and comfort.
But what truly sets the Marbella Club apart is the exceptional service. With around 700 employees dedicated to just 137 rooms, suites, and villas, the staff-to-guest ratio is unparalleled. Every guest can expect not only impeccable attention to detail but also a level of personalized service that feels as though it was tailored just for them.
With around 700 employees dedicated to just 137 rooms, suites, and villas, every detail is anticipated before you even realize it.
Imagine arriving at your room to find your favorite flowers arranged in a delicate vase, or having your preferred music softly playing in the background. Whether it’s a warm towel ready after a swim in the Mediterranean or a perfectly arranged breakfast waiting on your private terrace, the staff at Marbella Club anticipates your every need. It’s the kind of luxury where no request is too small, and no detail is overlooked.
Whether you’re looking for a beachfront escape or a spa retreat, the exclusivity of Marbella Club ensures an experience that is not just about relaxation, but about immersion in unparalleled luxury and care.
A Grand Welcome Along Marbella’s Golden Mile
The journey along Marbella’s famous Golden Mile set the tone for the unforgettable experience ahead. The drive, lined with palm trees and vibrant scenery, hinted at the luxury awaiting within. Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the lobby, a stunning space that exudes the elegance of a grand Andalusian home. High ceilings, hand-painted tiles, and antique furnishings seamlessly blend history with timeless freshness.
From there, a charming hotel buggy – delightfully whimsical and uniquely personal – whisked me away to my suite, enhancing the feeling of entering a private, secluded retreat. The suite itself was everything I had imagined and more: spacious, light-filled, and decorated in a harmonious blend of contemporary luxury and Andalusian charm. Large French doors opened onto a private balcony, offering stunning views of the hotel’s lush gardens. With a separate living room, the 80 sqm MC Suite provides ample space for a relaxing retreat.
Upon my arrival, a chilled bottle of champagne and a beautifully arranged cheese platter awaited. After a longer journey that day, the sight of the marble bathtub was irresistible, and I indulged in a relaxing soak, sipping champagne while reflecting on the hotel’s storied past.
The Marbella Club has attracted royalty, Hollywood stars, and world leaders throughout its history, yet its relaxed atmosphere ensures every guest feels like royalty. The experience is one of privacy, comfort, and impeccable service.
Culinary Journeys: Tradition, Innovation, and Andalusian Nights
After settling into the suite, the next highlight awaited: a culinary journey celebrating Andalusian culture and innovation. In every dish – from vibrant seafood to refined seasonal creations – the chefs showcase precision, creativity, and exceptional craftsmanship. Service enhances the experience without intrusion, making each course feel thoughtfully designed for the moment. Even a casual meal on the terrace, surrounded by gardens and bathed in Mediterranean light, becomes a memory to savor.
For a unique and intimate dining experience, the hotel offers private Andalusian nights for villa guests. A roaring fire, local delicacies prepared in the villa, and an intimate flamenco performance create a memorable celebration of the Andalusian culture that Marbella Club so beautifully embodies.
Following dinner, a visit to Rudi’s Bar, named in tribute to the late Rudi Schoenborn, the hotel’s former general manager, offers a refined yet relaxed setting. Dark wood paneling, vintage photographs, and plush leather seating create an atmosphere steeped in history. As you sip a perfectly crafted French 75, it is easy to feel connected to the countless luminaries who have passed through these doors.
A roaring fire, local delicacies, and an intimate flamenco performance — a memory that lingers long after the evening ends.
Wellness & Leisure: Restorative Moments in Andalusian Elegance
The Marbella Club team thoughtfully curates every wellness and leisure moment to restore, rejuvenate, and surround you with Andalusian serenity. The renowned Thalasso Spa draws on the healing properties of the Mediterranean Sea, offering treatments that soothe both body and mind with exceptional care and attention to detail.
Beyond the spa, the hotel offers a variety of outdoor pursuits, from yoga and Pilates to water sports on the private beach, as well as a golf course designed by Dave Thomas. Each activity reflects the same quiet sophistication that defines the estate, offering privacy, personalization, and effortless enjoyment.
After a leisurely morning, a stroll along Marbella Club’s tranquil beach allows the gentle waves and soft sand to complete the experience. Each moment – in the spa, on the golf course, or along the shoreline – is intentionally curated, offering a rare combination of restorative calm and understated luxury.
The Marbella Club Experience: Curated Luxury at Every Turn
Staying at Marbella Club is not merely about comfort or beauty. It makes you feel fully seen, cared for, and subtly indulged. From the remarkable staff-to-room ratio to the carefully curated gardens, exceptional cuisine, private leisure experiences, and intimate cultural moments, every aspect reinforces a feeling of rare, effortless sophistication. For travelers who value discretion, personalization, and experiences that feel uniquely theirs, Marbella Club delivers an unforgettable journey: a perfect blend of heritage, luxury, and intimacy.
