Sun, Sea, and Serenity: My Solo Escape to Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella
When I arrived at the Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella, I knew I was in for a treat. Situated on the sunny Costa del Sol, this adults-only haven is perfectly located just a few steps from the beach promenade and a short walk to the charming old town of Marbella.
What stood out to me during my stay was the meticulous attention to detail—whether it was the chic design, the delectable food, or the warm and attentive staff. Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella is much more than just a luxurious getaway; it offers a Mediterranean experience that resonates with relaxation and bliss. The name "Amàre," meaning "to love," feels fitting, as every corner of this hotel celebrates a love for the sea and the finer things in life.
During my five-night stay, the room was stunning. The front-facing balcony offered sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea, making me feel like I was floating just above the water. My morning coffee tasted a bit better with such a stunning backdrop. The room was modern, full of natural light, and designed to make the most of the Mediterranean sunshine. And as if that wasn’t enough, the pool, set against a lush tropical garden, offered another vantage point to soak in the sea views.
I spent most of my days lounging by the pool or at the hotel’s beach club, where the live DJ kept the vibes relaxed yet upbeat. Thanks to the “Push and go” service, I didn’t even have to leave my sunbed. Fancy a cocktail or sushi? Maybe a slice of pizza while you’re in the jacuzzi? Amàre has you covered. Their mood is all about effortless indulgence.
A real highlight of the room was the glass shower with a view of the sea—imagine freshening up while gazing out at the waves. Staying in this suite also came with exclusive perks, like access to a private lounge with snacks and drinks, plus daily access to the spa’s hydrotherapy treatments. Trust me, you’ll want to treat yourself to breakfast in bed at least once—there’s something extra special about enjoying luxury on holiday.
Dining at Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella was an experience in itself. One evening, I had a memorable dinner at Hayaca, a beachfront restaurant run by renowned chef Mauricio Giovanni. His Latin American fusion menu blew me away with its bold flavors. I recommend trying the bream with banana cream or the fried plantain with shrimp mayonnaise, and don’t skip the canchanchara tapioca for dessert.
Each morning, I started my day with a breakfast buffet on the Mare Nostrum terrace, taking in uninterrupted views of the sea. Even if you're indoors, the large windows make it feel like you're still part of the beach scene. The buffet focused on fresh, healthy Mediterranean dishes, showcasing the finest local and organic ingredients. Dinner at the Verité terrace was a feast for the senses, with live Latin music playing in the background and a range of themed dishes highlighting the vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
In short, Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella is the perfect place to relax, recharge, and soak in the essence of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail by the pool or enjoying a gourmet meal with the waves as your soundtrack, every moment here is pure bliss.
A tour of Plaza de los Naranjos
As I set out to explore Marbella, I found myself wandering into the heart of its old town, where history and charm intertwine beautifully—Plaza de los Naranjos. The moment I arrived, it was clear that this square held something uniquely captivating, almost intangible, yet completely undeniable.
Plaza de los Naranjos, with its warm orange trees and inviting cobblestone streets, serves as the pulse of Marbella. Surrounded by cute shops, cozy restaurants, and bustling cafés, it offers an experience that effortlessly blends the past with the present. I couldn't resist the pull of the vibrant atmosphere. Everywhere I looked, there was life—whether it was families enjoying a meal at a local eatery or locals chatting over coffee at one of the many outdoor terraces. It was as if the square had its own rhythm, one that I was more than happy to fall into.
As I strolled through the narrow streets branching off from the square, I found myself drawn into the quaint boutiques filled with charming souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local treasures. Each shop seemed to have its own story to tell, adding to the overall experience of exploring this beautiful part of Marbella.
What truly set Plaza de los Naranjos apart for me was the central fountain, framed by the stunning traditional Andalusian architecture that seems to whisper the town's rich history. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down, inviting you to relax, unwind, and simply absorb the local ambiance.
My time in Plaza de los Naranjos felt like a journey back in time while remaining connected to the lively present. The square offers a perfect blend of tranquility and energy, making it an unforgettable part of Marbella’s old town.
Exploring Marbella’s Alcazaba and Castle Walls: A Journey Through History
The Alcazaba of Marbella is a remarkable historical site, showcasing layers of Roman, Moorish, and Christian architecture. As one of the few remaining fortifications in Marbella, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past as a defensive stronghold and coastal watchpoint.
I arrived early to be the first visitor at the Palace's 9 AM opening, a perfect time to capture stunning, "clean" photos of the architecture without any crowds—a rare treat compared to places like the Alhambra or Seville’s Alcazar. The peaceful, uninterrupted atmosphere allowed me to appreciate the intricate details of the palace in a way that’s hard to experience at more crowded sites.
The climb to the Castle, however, proved to be both breathtaking and challenging. Slick paving stones required careful footing, especially on sunny days. If visiting when it’s wet, I’d recommend taking a bus to avoid the risk of slipping. As someone who’s a bit afraid of heights, I managed the low walls and steep drops along the paths but couldn’t handle the narrow parapets at the top of the towers.
Despite the physical challenge, the experience was well worth it. The preserved towers—like Torre del Homenaje and Torre Blanca—remind you of the site’s strategic importance during the Christian Reconquest. Visiting the Alcazaba is a blend of history, beauty, and a rewarding adventure for those up to the climb!
Exploring Plaza Puente Ronda: A Historical Gem in Marbella
Plaza Puente Ronda is a vibrant square that instantly captivates with its lively colors and unique atmosphere. Once one of the main approach roads into Marbella, it holds a deep connection to the city’s past while offering visitors a wonderful blend of history and beauty.
One of the standout features of this square is the stunning Parador de Ronda, a building that dates back to 1734. Once serving as the Town Hall, its grandeur and history still resonate today. Just steps away from this plaza is the breathtaking New Bridge (Puente Nuevo) and the awe-inspiring Tajo de Ronda gorge, making this area a must-see for anyone visiting Marbella.
While exploring, I found myself in Plaza de España, a bustling square in the heart of Ronda’s New Town. It serves as a natural entry point into the Old Town, blending the city’s two distinct areas. Recently renovated, the square is full of cafés and eateries, making it a perfect spot to relax with a coffee while soaking in the vibrant local atmosphere.
The plaza also features a bust statue of António Rios Rocas, a Spanish politician born in Ronda in 1812, adding a touch of historical significance to this beautiful square. Overall, Plaza Puente Ronda is an essential stop, offering a rich mix of culture, history, and charm.
Exploring Marbella's Iglesia Mayor de la Encarnación:
Wandering through Marbella's old town, I found myself near the ancient city wall when I stumbled upon the Iglesia Mayor de la Encarnación, a beautiful and historic church right in the heart of the city. Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, the church’s exterior gives little hint of the breathtaking interior waiting inside.
I decided to step in to check this peaceful sanctuary. The interior of the church is stunning—richly decorated with intricate details, a beautiful gold leaf altar, and incredible religious artwork. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and just soak in the calm, spiritual atmosphere. Whether you're walking around admiring the artistry or sitting quietly on the pews, it offers a welcome moment of peace.
