Sandwiched between the majestic Sierra Blanca mountain range and miles of white sandy beaches lapped by the gentle waves of the Mediterranean Sea is the upmarket resort of Marbella. One of the most desirable places to own properties in the Spanish Costa Del Sol, Marbella has continued to attract a host of celebrity inhabitants and wealthy property owners since its founding mid-1940’s by a Bavarian playboy prince.

Unlike many other Spanish coastal resorts, the Marbella property market has weathered the storms of the housing price crash exceptionally well, no doubt due to its reputation as a playground for the rich and famous. Amongst its 130,000 local inhabitants are many well-known names, including Hollywood film stars such as Anthony Banderas and Melanie Griffiths, multi-millionaire businessmen like Sir Allan Sugar as well as Saudi oil sheiks and even royalty.

Many are drawn by Marbella’s stunning location and exceptionally mild micro-climate with 300+ plus sunshine days and low rainfall, thanks to its sheltered position under La Concha Mountain. Malaga International Airport is only 30 minutes’ drive away, and there is an excellent road network easily accessed via the E-15 and A-7 motorways.

The golfing in Marbella is top notch, with 15+ world-class courses to choose from, including Las Brisas, which has hosted prestigious tournaments such as the Andalucían Open, and the Santa Clara Golf Club, a par 71, 18-hole course designed by Enrique Canales Busquets.

There are also horse-riding and spa treatments available at luxury resort hotels such as the Marbella Club Hotel, which also has a golf course designed by former British golfing pro, Dave Thomas. For children and families, there is the Amazon Adventure Park, located just five minutes’ drive from Marbella off the N-340 highway.

Those more inclined towards sun, sea, yachting, eating and shopping will find that central Marbella and its classy neighbour, Puerto Banus, known for its high-end eateries and designer shops, do not disappoint. Connected via a stretch of palatial homes referred to as the ‘Golden Mile,’ both boast excellent beaches, as well as two marinas packed with designer yachts.

Marbella’s main beach is fronted by lush tropical gardens leading onto a marble esplanade, peppered with trendy bars and cafés, whilst its old town has quaint buildings whitewashed in the typical Andalucían style and winding, cobbled streets opening out onto picturesque squares where there is a vibrant nightlife scene. There are also two beautiful parks and two medical clinics in Marbella, as well as a several historic churches and museums.

Given its glamorous cache, real estate in Marbella is not the cheapest, making it an excellent place for a holiday rental investment, particularly if you are able to secure a centrally-located apartment with sea or harbour views. However, there are also reasonably-priced, quieter enclaves away from the city centre where modest villas and townhouses are available on attractive serviced estates.

Keywords: Marbella, Malaga Spain, property, investment, holidays, travel, Mediterranean

Mark Burns works for Pure Property Overseas, a UK based property company, specialising in Spanish property, and who offer a wide portfolio of properties for sale in Marbella.