Tranquility at Hotel El Fuerte, Marbella
The Costa del Sol is known for its irresistible charm and luxury, and Marbella is the crown jewel of this dreamy coastline. During my solo trip, I found myself staying at the iconic Hotel El Fuerte Marbella, a five-star oasis that delivered everything I'd hoped for and more. From the second I walked into the grand lobby, I knew I was in for something special. The space felt like a mix of a gallery and a welcoming home, with warm Spanish aesthetics, modern art, and subtle hints of Andalusian influence.
El Fuerte Marbella is perfectly positioned—right on the beach and just a short walk from the heart of the old town, offering unbeatable views of the Mediterranean from every angle. The hotel recently earned its five-star status, and it shows in every little detail, from the attentive staff (who greeted me with a refreshing welcome drink) to the stunning design led by Chilean designer Jaime Beriestain. The blend of Andalusian tradition with modern luxury was so well done, I immediately felt at ease.
Now, I’ve stayed in some pretty luxurious places, but the suite at El Fuerte Marbella took things to another level. With floor-to-ceiling windows framing the endless blue of the Mediterranean, I could have easily spent my entire stay in my room. The décor was elegant yet cozy, mixing earthy tones with modern art pieces, creating a space that felt both indulgent and homely. As the sun went down, the room transformed into a cozy haven, and the city lights outside twinkled like stars brought down to earth.
Each morning, I woke up to the sound of waves and enjoyed my coffee on the terrace—honestly, one of the best ways to start the day. Breakfast at the hotel was something I looked forward to daily. The spread was massive, catering to every kind of craving, from fresh fruit and pastries to omelets and pancakes made right in front of you. And let’s not forget the freshly squeezed orange juice and a cheeky glass of champagne to start the day feeling a bit fancy. After all, it’s the little touches that make you feel like you’re in a movie.
While Marbella’s beaches are famous, I found myself spending most of my downtime by the hotel's pools. Whether it was the rooftop infinity pool that seemed to melt into the horizon or the more private garden pool surrounded by lush greenery, every swim was a moment of pure relaxation. The poolside bar kept me refreshed with cocktails and glasses of cava delivered right to my sunbed, which was honestly a dream.
One evening, I treated myself to dinner at Soleo, the hotel’s beach club, and it was an unforgettable experience. The interior, designed by Isabel López Vilalta, felt like I was dining aboard a luxury yacht. The food was equally stunning—delicate, fresh seafood prepared with a modern twist, all while watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of pink and gold. The octopus I had was probably the best I’ve ever tasted, and paired with the view, it was truly a magical moment.
As night fell, El Fuerte Marbella transformed into a vibrant yet relaxed retreat. The hotel came alive with live music—everything from Spanish guitar to chill beats, which added to the already enchanting atmosphere.
In short, my stay at Hotel El Fuerte Marbella was the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and Mediterranean charm. Whether I was lounging by the pool, indulging in gourmet meals, or just soaking in the stunning views from my suite, every moment felt like a treat. It’s the kind of place that leaves you wanting to come back again and again.
