Marbella

Associated with glamour and the international jet-set that landed here in the 1950s and transformed the then sleepy fishing village into the beautiful Mediterranean haunt of aristocrats, Hollywood actors and business tycoons, Marbella has gone on to attract sports stars, sheiks and also those lucky enough to retire, work, live and/or vacation here.

The area is divided into the main downtown area and the stylish beachside and inland suburban areas and hillside country clubs, many of which feature luxurious apartments, penthouses and villas overlooking the sea or fronting immaculate golf courses. In keeping with the high standard of homes and resort hotels, Marbella is a place known for luxury five-star services and amenities.

These include designer shopping, fine dining, glamorous nightlife, yachting, luxury décor and also concierge services. Puerto Banús and its famous yacht-lined marina are a hub for restaurants, night clubs, boutiques and beach clubs, while Nueva Andalucía is a popular residential area noted for its golf courses, racquet clubs and excellent schools.

The area also incorporates the charming, lively little Spanish town of San Pedro Alcántara, and extends from elegant Guadalmina in the west to Elviria and Cabopino in the east. At the heart of it all is the delightful downtown area that flanks the main Ricardo Soriano Avenue, the elegant beachside promenade and the picturesque historic centre with its shops and eateries.