The 7 wonders of Marbella, the gem of Costa del Sol
Famous for its luxury, natural beauty, and a centuries-long historical legacy, Marbella remains the reigning queen along Spain’s Costa del Sol. However, beyond the exclusive ambience and the city’s famed endless nightlife, other parts of Marbella are authentic treasures. Here are seven of the most notable marvels Marbella has to offer.
Seven must-see treasures of Marbella
A journey to Andalusia’s soul in Marbella’s historic old quarter
Far from the busy beaches and marinas, Marbella’s historic centre is a maze of narrow streets and whitewashed homes, a place that breathes history and tradition. Walking this labyrinth of cobblestoned passageways entails the aromas of jasmine and geraniums streaming from flowerpots.
Naranjos Square (or Plaza de los Naranjos) lies at the heart of the old quarter, a place known for its vibrant street life and historical buildings such as the Casa Consistorial and the Chapel of Santiago. Nevertheless, the neighbourhood has plenty of other timeless spots to feel the Andalusian aura, bustling with bars, boutiques, and taverns offering delicious food. In contrast to Marbella’s modern facet, the celebrated old quarter stands out as a reminder of the city’s historic roots.
The Moorish traces of Marbella’s citadel
In the bustling, chalky white streets of the old quarter, there rise the remains of the Castle of Marbella, a marvel deserving its own mention. A silent witness to the multitude of events that have shaped the city, the citadel is a vestige from an era when these walls protected the Moorish settlement and its inhabitants. From the wall’s heights, the sentinels stood guard, gazing at the horizon.
The castle’s origins date to the 10th century during the celebrated Al-Andalus era, and the castle’s walls watched over an enclosed city that flourished as an agricultural and commercial hub. A good part of the castle’s allure stems from its integration with the surrounding environment. The timeworn walls of the citadel fusing with the whitewashed homes and the castle’s crenellated profile make an extraordinary impression.
An endless paradise of Mediterranean beaches
Spanning more than 27 kilometres and lapped by gentle Mediterranean waves, Marbella’s beaches are clearly one of its greatest treasures. Ranging from coves tucked away in the wild to vast stretches of sandy beaches offering premium services, each of Marbella’s beaches possesses its unique charm. Here, almost year-round sunshine and crystal-clear waters are an open invitation to enjoy and explore the coast.
Marbella’s beach par excellence is Fontanilla Beach, with its golden sands and countless catering venues. Smaller and less frequented beaches are also accessible, like El Faro and Guadalmina, where views of ancient watchtowers can be had. Of course, there is no shortage of posh spots like Nikki Beach or places like Las Chapas Beach to practice aquatic sports.
The Artola Dunes, untouched Marbella
Directly behind the fabulous Cabopino Beach lies one of the Costa del Sol’s most intriguing settings. The Artola Dunes are a precious wilderness consisting of smooth crests of sand and a singular flora. A special trail has been designed so as to traverse the area without disturbing this delicate and fascinating ecosystem.
Although many people visit this place for the beach, this lush land is replete with activities like serene strolls accompanied by the sounds of lapping waves or cycling the area and enjoying the views. Sunsets at this point along the coast deserve special mention, for they are as spectacular as those along the coast of Cádiz. On clear days the African coast can even be glimpsed in the distance.
The Mediterranean glamour of Puerto Banús
Puerto Banús is undoubtedly a wonder of Marbella. Located a few kilometres from the city centre, a visit to this iconic marina means entering an upmarket world of glamour and breathtaking beauty along the seashore. The marina’s heart beats to the rhythm of the docks where impressive yachts are moored under the southern sun. Any stroll through here is a plush parade of exotic cars and chic boutiques all set against the blue Mediterranean Sea.
A visit to Puerto Banús is to experience a taste of high living along the seafront under the sunshine. Here one can stroll among yachts, taste the best cuisine, have a great night out, or simply soak up the atmosphere.
Marbella’s holy Our Lady of the Incarnation
Likely built upon the site of Marbella’s main mosque in the city centre, the church of Our Lady of the Incarnation is an architectural tribute to the devotion the Catholic Monarchs held for the dogma of the incarnation. Construction of this enormous basilica-shaped building was initiated in the 16th century, and works continued well into the following century.
Standing in stark counterpoint to the bustling opulence of its exterior, the temple’s interior is a place where the intricate crafting of the church’s three naves can be quietly observed. One of the more notable elements found here is the Órgano del Sol Mayor, a pipe organ ranked among the best constructed in Spain in the last century.
The natural treasure of the Sierra Blanca
The Sierra Blanca mountains gracefully rise and dominate Marbella’s horizon. More than a beautiful setting, the mountain range is a peaceful sanctuary and paradise for nature enthusiasts and home to Concha Peak, whose unmistakeable silhouette has come to symbolise the region. From these mountains, the views of the Costa del Sol unfolding like a shimmering carpet and the Strait of Gibraltar are simply spectacular.
The Sierra Blanca (‘Blanca’ meaning ‘white’) owes its name to the clear tones of the limestone rock, which stand in stark contrast to the surrounding blues and greens. Its forests of holm and cork oak provide shelter for eagles and hawks. Nor is it uncommon to come across mountain goats along the trekking trails. More than protecting Marbella from the northern winds, the Sierra Blanca endows Marbella with personality and exemplifies the city’s essence.
You can also read this article in Spanish here.