Accommodations in southern Spain are simply as numerous because the area’s diversified landscapes — culture-vulture cities, Costa del Sol seashores, rolling countryside — so, that can assist you discover your subsequent Spanish vacation vacation spot faster than you possibly can say ‘vamos a la playa’, we’ve narrowed down a few of our favourites, whether or not you’re travelling as a two or with children in tow; need decadent eats or spa spoiling, or a keep that doesn’t deplete your Euros.
Uncover rural lodges in Granada Province, romantic retreats close to Cádiz and gourmand stays in Marbella, with our round-up of the ten greatest lodges in southern Spain.
FOR A BEACH WITHIN REACH
Mett Lodge & Seaside Resort Marbella
There are a number of similarities between Barbie’s Ken and the Costa del Sol: buffed beauty, a sunny disposition and their job, properly, it’s ‘seaside’. The identical may be stated of Mett Lodge & Seaside Resort Marbella, a coastal retreat between Estepona and Puerto Banús, the place easy-breezy days slip into evenings of DJ units and eating with a world really feel.
However in contrast to Ken, this southern Spanish hideaway delivers on substance in addition to model, with its natural, zero-kilometre produce, botanical spa therapies and coastal-cool interiors. Made-for-two cabanas dot the pool terrace and look out over the sand; and the resort’s seaside membership is a haunt for alfresco lunches and golden-hour apéritifs. In Marbella, ‘seaside’ will quickly change into your occupation, too.
Finest room for sun-seekers You’ll get an additional dose of blue within the Seascape Suite: its breeze-kissed terrace is vibrant with cobalt beams and ceramic urns, and it has a personal pool and stellar sea views.
Design particulars The beach-facing pool sits on the coronary heart of the resort, with eating places, terraces and rooms hugging all sides. This courtyard-like structure fosters a way of group, amped up by the seaside membership’s day-to-night draw.
One thing to eat The resort’s 4 eating places are a round-the-world feast of recent pasta; marinated, Med-style meats; tempting tapas and poolside cocktails — so you possibly can globetrot out of your sunlounger or terrace-set desk.
See the sights You’re proper by Playa del Saladillo, so siestas on the sand and salty dips are solely a stroll away. Most of Marbella’s seashores are inside straightforward attain, too — cycle alongside the coast to Playa de San Pedro de Alcántara’s palm-lined promenade for refreshing swims; or go to Playa de Nagüeles for its mountain backdrop and largely native really feel.
FOR ALL-OUT LUXURY
Finca Cortesin
Edging previous Estepona in direction of Gibraltar, want-for-nothing retreat Finca Cortesin is ready slightly again from the ocean amid verdant countryside. You could possibly nearly be wherever — the Finca’s arrange like a mini village so that you’re unlikely to depart its stately embrace — but this cossetting resort has a powerful Andalucian heritage.
A smattering of fountain-toting courtyards, lofty cloisters and daring colors nod to Moorish design; and its sea-glimpsing suites and assist for the local people (by way of food-donation programmes) put its Marbellí locale firmly on the fore. A clutch of eating places caters to all tastes, as do sporty actions, spa therapies and picturesque swimming pools.
Most extravagant room In a Pool Suite, luxurious comes within the type of grand prospers: a Travertine marble rest room with an extra-large tub, and a sweeping terrace with a just-for-you pool. Nevertheless it’s additionally obvious within the smaller touches, akin to recent flowers and fruit; plus individually styled interiors and glimpses of the ocean from all angles.
Design particulars Granada could also be a few hours away by automobile throughout the south of Spain, however there’s one thing of La Alhambra in Finca Cortesin — its palatial dimension, peaceable courtyards, Moorish archways and bright-with-bougainvillea terraces really feel authentically Andalucian.
One thing to eat Asian-fusion restaurant Rei, helmed by chef Luis Olarra, is a decadent affair, the place sashimi platters and miso-glazed black cod are paired with toro tartare and tiger-prawn tempura. Get front-row seats to the culinary motion by bagging the chef’s desk, which sits subsequent to the open kitchen.
See the sights Positive, you’re near Málaga Province’s seaside cities, however this finca has distractions of its personal. Days may begin with a spot of yoga, guided meditation or Pilates class; adopted by rounds of golf or video games of tennis, which then roll into an hour (or three) on the sprawling spa, earlier than you plonk your self down on the seaside membership (open by way of July and August) till sunset.
FOR SPA SPOILING
Nobu Lodge Marbella
With its full of life seaside golf equipment and day-to-night eating places, Marbella feels synonymous with hedonism reasonably than holism; nonetheless, Nobu Lodge toes the road between the 2. Sure, it has a courtyard for socialising and cocktail shaking, and a DJ-hosting evening membership; but it surely additionally has a spa that can restore you regardless of what number of sherries you had final evening.
Nobu’s Six Senses Spa (shared with Smith-approved neighbour, Puente Romano Seaside Resort), isn’t just for recovering from late nights — although its natural steam room and circuit of plunge swimming pools really feel reasonably healthful. Its therapies rejoice native merchandise, akin to mountain herbs, sea salt and extra-virgin olive oil; and therapeutic traditions from southern Spain. It’s Andalucian in all senses, as is a pampering-induced siesta by its mosaic-clad pool.
Finest room for spa seekers The one-of-kind Nobu Suite soothes with its whitewashed interiors, views of La Concha mountain and personal entry to the resort’s pool. It’s also possible to go for non-public soaks within the sizzling tub on its terrace, and the bed room overlooks lush gardens. Set away from the resort’s full of life La Plaza, right here you’re assured to sleep peacefully.
Design particulars Identical to the dishes spun at on this outpost of the famed fusion restaurant, Andalucian and Japanese tradition are married collectively within the resort’s design. White façades, terracotta tiling and native vegetation give strategy to minimalist interiors and furnishings in impartial hues, and pale-wood accents. It seems polished design is a common language.
One thing to eat Nobu’s miso-marinated black cod has attracted a cult following the world over; in Marbella’s outpost, it garners simply as a lot hype. Must you really feel like discovering the subsequent ‘it’ dish, attempt Greek-inspired plates by Nobu’s first feminine chef, Eleni Manousou, plus a roster of eating places at Smith stablemate, Puente Romano Seaside Resort.
See the sights Some could argue that the cod is cause sufficient to go to (it’s), however Marbella’s Golden Mile has its justifiable share of sandy stretches and seaside golf equipment which are equally deserving of your consideration; or you could possibly enjoy Nobu’s dawn-to-dusk leisure.
FOR A FAMILY GETAWAY
Oku Andalusia
Oku Andalusia has related beauty to its Smith-approved sister stays in Kos, Ibiza and Bodrum, all of which have polished bohemian design, a beach-club really feel and scenic coastal locale. However this all-frills resort in southern Spain has one additional string in its bow: a fun-for-all-the-family ethos (with lots for fogeys, too).
Teenagers will need to bagsy a tennis or padel court docket earlier than overtly making an attempt watersports or to construct a seaside bonfire, whereas youthful tots will race to the children’ membership for its crafting and treasure hunts. With the kiddos saved busy, dad and mom can sit back in true Andalucian model, chilling in a poolside cabana, being pampered on the sprawling spa or sharing candlelit dinner for dos (because of the resort’s babysitters).
Finest room for households Every suite has a double sofa-bed that may be made up for 2 little Smiths, on request; however larger clans can comfortably make themselves at residence in a Two-Bed room Deluxe Suite, which has its personal pool.
Design particulars Like your best-dressed pal, Oku lodges have an inimitable signature model, and this Andalucian outpost isn’t any exception, with its sociable pool terraces, plentiful vegetation, wabi-sabi interiors and all-natural color palette.
One thing to eat This nook of Cádiz Province is revered for its shoals of Almadraba crimson tuna, which migrate in direction of the Mediterranean come summer season. Lodge employees can prepare so that you can watch native fishermen reel them in, earlier than sampling the hyper-fresh catches in Nikkei-style dishes.
See the sights If you happen to can peel your self off your breeze-cooled sunlounger for a day, earn your siesta on a hike that’s backdropped by the Rock of Gibraltar; in spring and summer season, you may spy whales on a ship constitution cruising alongside Cádiz’s shoreline.
FOR A BUDGET-FRIENDLY TRIP
Tayko Sevilla
Metropolis-break basecamps have to ship on a number of issues: an excellent location, good-value rooms and eating that powers you thru sightseeing days. So, think about our delight after we discovered one which fulfils our standards, after which some. In Andalucia’s capital, boutique resort Tayko Sevilla generously doles out extras that elevate its crashpad standing: a Seville-surveying roof terrace and plunge pool; bedrooms that may have a balcony or bathtub tub; and a streetside tapas restaurant that pairs people-watching with paella.
This petite Spanish resort welcomes you with open arms after days spent roaming the riverside, sipping sangría within the sunshine or toe-tapping alongside to flamenco music. It’s completely proportioned for each solo travellers and romantic rendezvous. Verify-out is till midday, too, so you possibly can hit yet one more hotspot (or enjoy one other lie-in) with out splashing the money on an extension — save that for antique-market finds or a Michelin-starred meal.
Finest worth room On a metropolis break as sight-studded as one set in Seville, you solely actually need a room for flopping in: the Tayko Petite is a simple-but-soothing basecamp to recharge in between high-step-count days.
Design particulars Muted, understated, minimalist: not fairly the adjectives you’d anticipate for a resort within the south of Spain, however Tayko’s interiors are a welcome, soft-hued distinction to town’s intricate stonework, fruit-toned tiling and vibrant orange timber.
One thing to eat Lean into the spirit of sobremesa (the Spanish custom of stress-free at a desk after a meal) on the resort’s companion restaurant, Los Garcia, lingering over lunches of squid-ink- or saffron-laced paella that roll into rounds of tinto de verano on the terrace.
See the sights This boutique resort is neighbours with a few of Seville’s big-hitters: its sky-reaching cathedral and lofty bell tower, Moorish-masterpiece Royal Alcázar and the leafy Santa Cruz barrio. Nevertheless it’s not all rooted up to now — you’ll discover town’s up to date edge on the Setas de Sevilla pergola and in place-to-be Triana.
FOR A ROMANTIC BREAK
Casa la Siesta
Our title is a little bit of a giveaway, however we love an influence couple, particularly one succeeding within the resort trade. Cádiz bolthole Casa la Siesta is the love little one of Lee and Amelia, a design-savvy, British duo who moved to Vejer de la Frontera to be taught a brand new language and are actually elevating their household within the south of Spain.
The trickle-down impact of their very own love story is felt all through this romance-inspiring retreat; there’s a femininity to bedrooms in pastel-pink prospers and uncovered white-wood beams; an air of twinkly-eyed romance over alfresco meals below inky evening skies and the glow of fairylights; and a palpable take care of the surroundings in favouring home-grown elements and reclaimed supplies — maybe probably the most tender-hearted facet of all.
Finest room for {couples} Suite Three’s romantic palette of rose pink and orchid white units the scene for pillow discuss within the emperor-size mattress, two-person soaks within the tub and synchronised skincare on the twin sinks. And backyard views from its Juliet balcony and suntrap terrace provide flirty glimpses of inexperienced.
Design particulars Proprietor Lee’s farmhouse-chic design attracted a lot consideration that he was capable of begin up his personal interiors firm off the again of this labour-of-love undertaking. So, identical to at Casa la Siesta, your house again residence may be skilfully kitted out in reclaimed supplies, vintage finds and rustic furnishings.
One thing to eat Eating here’s a love letter to the land and native produce; head chef Connie sources elements from the natural kitchen backyard, morning markets and Cádiz’s coast. Its Earth-kind ethos is sufficient to woo you, however the tapas tasting menu with sherry pairings will make you fall head over heels.
See the sights Get-up-and-go {couples} may make a beeline for Cádiz Province’s secluded coves, kitesurfer-dotted stretches and clifftop trails; or take cues from the resort’s title and go for high quality (down)time collectively — at an intimate dinner or by the herb-scented pool.
FOR MARBELLA’S GOLDEN MILE
Marbella Membership
We are able to see how Marbella’s Golden Mile earned its title, with its caramel-coloured sand, amber-hued wash of sunshine and bronzed jet-set crowd. It’s a becoming spot then for Marbella Membership, a halcyon resort that was as soon as the seaside playground of Prince Alfonso within the Fifties and sits between Puerto Banús and Marbella Outdated City.
Its picturesque pier, low-lit bodega and scalloped poolside parasols exude old-world attraction, however a formidable dedication to sustainability, week-long wellness programmes and its close-to-town setting offers this southern Spanish stalwart up to date clout.
Most Marbellí room Mod-Mediterranean interiors are an extension of the cream-and-cerulean views that wrap across the Grand Seaside Suite: pops of blue, mismatched prints and patterned ceramics improve the charms of the four-poster mattress and archway-framed terrace.
Design particulars Brigitte Bardot as soon as swanned by way of this resort, and — although a good bit has modified since then — the orange-scented Summer time Bar and laidback MC Seaside Restaurant are equally deserving of it-girl standing. The resort’s Andalucian color palette of olive inexperienced, hibiscus pink and ocean blue are decades-spanning staples, as are its devoted champagne bar and manicured gardens.
One thing to eat You could possibly simply go for a liquid food regimen right here — the enjoyable form. Begin with jugs of juicy sangría on the seaside bar, then sundowners on the leafy Summer time Bar or a signature tipple at Patio Bar, earlier than night-cap-fuelled video games of backgammon at Rudi’s.
See the sights ‘Eat, sleep, seaside, repeat’ appears to be the tempo alongside Marbella’s Golden Mile, interspersed with old-town strolls, a mooch in Puerto Banús’ boutiques and afternoons spent on the close by golf course. Combine a little bit of tradition into your beachfront break with a day journey to Granada, lower than two hours’ drive away.
FOR CULTURE
Palacio Gran Vía
Pablo Picasso got here from Granada’s neighbouring province, Málaga, and there are echoes of his boldly expressive shading at Palacio Gran Vía, a small cathedral-facing resort in Granada’s storied coronary heart. Get snap-happy over its ornate, primary-colour-hued, stained-glass home windows, brightly tiled corridors and roof terrace umbrellas in shades of Nocellara-olive inexperienced and tinto-de-verano maroon.
You’ll discover related soul-brightening shades alongside Granada’s full of life streets within the type of orange-blossom timber, fruit-and-veg markets, Baroque basilicas and flamenco exhibits. La Alhambra, nonetheless, is probably probably the most citable supply for this bank-turned-boutique resort’s palatial interiors — and it’s solely a 30-minute stroll away.
Finest room for views There’s nothing like ticking off your itinerary earlier than you’ve even had breakfast — the Deluxe Nook room’s dual-aspect home windows overlook Gran Vía and the cathedral for duvet-bound sightseeing; or take an espresso to its sun-dappled balcony for a better look.
Design particulars This city-break resort within the south of Spain was initially in-built 1905 because the Rodríguez Acosta financial institution — particulars of which you’ll nonetheless see within the preserved teller kiosks, weighty vault doorways and floral stained-glass home windows. However the addition of a convivial central patio and view-blessed roof terrace offers this bolthole a completely trendy edge.
One thing to eat There’s so much to refill on at Palacio Gran Vía’s guest-only roof terrace eatery: high up your digital camera roll with snaps of its jewel-toned parasols or views of town and Sierra Nevada mountain vary, and cargo up on houmous platters, generously stuffed sandwiches and Andalucian-inspired apéritifs. Downstairs within the vibrant courtyard, breakfast is equally particular, with freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruit, selfmade tortillas and native cheeses.
See the sights You couldn’t get extra central if you happen to tried: the Renaissance-style Cathedral is your centuries-old neighbour; weave previous plazas and chapels to the Darro river, which is able to lead you to La Alhambra, a jaw-dropping mediaeval complicated with palaces, towers and gardens.
FOR A RURAL RETREAT
Cortijo del Marqués
If we have been to pen a tome like Don Quixote, our writers’ retreat of alternative can be Cortijo del Marqués, a rustic boutique resort with a number of previous lives: crumbling convent, Nineteenth-century manor home, now enchanting hideaway. It’s a lore-inspiring setting inside and outside: olive groves and orchards are the stirring backdrop to the pool; indoors, a frozen-in-time rusticity is characterised by authentic options and dark-wood furnishings. It’s received all of the hallmarks of a rural south-of-Spain keep, and though you’ll discover many welcome mod-cons, its genuine conventional attraction is what units our inventive cogs whirring.
Most scenic room El Silo is a cylindrical duplex suite that was previously the property’s granary. A farmland-framing image window hangs like a canvas reverse the mattress — overlook drifting off to Netflix, watching the panorama’s colors change with the sunshine is way extra sedative.
Design particulars Conventional is the model MO right here. Its white-and-wood interiors are blended up on the resort’s chapel, which flaunts echoey ceilings, pale-blue particulars and complex cornicing, and the terrace provides a dab of sunshine yellow.
One thing to eat The resort’s eating choices have hearty get-togethers in thoughts: an Arabic oven may be lit for bigger teams on request, and basic sharing dishes, akin to slow-cooked lamb or suckling pig, are a whole-table favorite.
See the sights Now’s the time to lastly crack open these books you’ve at all times meant to learn, however by no means fairly had the time for. Or you could possibly swap the sounds of crickets for architecture-admiring crowds in close by Granada, the place inspiration strikes within the type of La Alhambra, an intricate Islamic behemoth, and the Casa Museo de Federico García Lorca, devoted to the native poet and playwright.
FOR A GOURMET BREAK
Finca La Bobadilla
Like a loving abuela, Finca La Bobadilla by no means needs you to go hungry: this southern Spanish resort began as a notable restaurant within the Eighties and has retained its culinary pedigree. Michelin-star-holding La Finca masterfully whips up regional dishes utilizing native elements and has an award-winning wine cellar; plus, whereas dad and mom tuck into elegantly offered plates, little Smiths can get a style for the finer issues with a not-your-average youngsters’s menu.
A garden-set breakfast buffet, which is included along with your keep, units the bar excessive for the remainder of the day’s meals, with a ramification of recent fruit, native jamón and cheeses, fluffy pancakes, as-you-like-them eggs and a glass of cava, claro. Past the eating rooms, you’ll discover seasonal paella and barbecue evenings soundtracked by dwell music.
Finest room for diners When you’ve been wined and dined to your restrict, take day trip to digest in a Hacienda Tower Suite with Terrace. It’s set on the highest flooring, so you possibly can climb off some excesses earlier than kicking again in entrance of the fireside or within the conservatory-like rest room’s soaking tub.
Design particulars Shining like a pearl amid the verdant countryside between Granada and Málaga, whitewashed Finca La Bobadilla is cool in each look and spirit — hunt down shade from the Spanish sunshine below its seashell-hued archways, in its olive groves or by its lagoon-like pool.
One thing to eat If you happen to’ve nonetheless received some room between meals on the finca’s 4 eating places, fulfill any additional cravings by attending an area olive-oil expertise, cooking class or sustainable-caviar tasting, the place you possibly can go to a close-by sturgeon farm and check out its natural yields.
See the sights Rural pursuits are likely to high agendas — that’s if you happen to even have one. Settle into healthful days of guided forest walks, alfresco meals, scenic horse rides and spells within the spa’s Finnish sauna or hammam; or spice issues up Andalucian model with day journeys to the Costa del Sol’s seashores, Granada or Seville.
Now see one of the best of the remaining with our full assortment of lodges in Andalucia
