My Stay at Kempinski Hotel Bahia
I recently spent two nights at the Kempinski Hotel Bahia, a beautiful getaway located just a five-minute drive from Estepona's center. Marbella is only 20 minutes away by car, and Malaga Airport is a manageable 73 km drive. The hotel's location is ideal for those wanting to explore more of Andalusia, with most cities within two hours' reach, and if you're feeling adventurous, Tangier, Morocco is just a quick ferry ride away!
The moment I walked through the grand entrance and into the impressive lobby, which overlooks the sea, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. The resort is surrounded by lush subtropical gardens, with three gorgeous outdoor pools scattered throughout, giving you plenty of space to unwind. The entire atmosphere felt like a peaceful oasis, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
Built in 1999 by renowned Costa del Sol architect Melvin Villarroel, the hotel boasts 128 spacious rooms and 17 luxury suites. The garden, which surrounds the pool area and beach restaurant, is beautifully maintained—so much so that it has won a "Best Garden" award. There’s no shortage of sun loungers, either. You can pick a spot wherever you fancy, and even though the hotel was about 70% full during my stay, I never had to scramble for a lounger. There were always plenty available, which made relaxing by the pool even more enjoyable.
The Rooms
The rooms at Kempinski Hotel Bahia are spacious, offering 45 to 461 square meters of comfort. My room had a lovely terrace with cushy chairs, perfect for sipping my morning coffee while watching the sunrise. It was such a peaceful way to start the day! The bathroom was large and luxurious, with a separate shower, a big bathtub, and fancy Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries. They didn’t skimp on the cozy extras either—fluffy towels, soft slippers, and bathrobes were all part of the package. Plus, the daily housekeeping was top-notch, keeping everything spotless.
One of the nicest surprises was the complimentary fruit basket filled with fresh, local produce. It was a thoughtful touch that added to the overall experience.
Breakfast with a View
Breakfast was served at El Mirador, a restaurant on the second floor that boasts a stunning view of the sea. You can choose to sit inside or on the outdoor terrace, which is open year-round. I opted to sit outside both mornings, soaking in the view while enjoying my coffee. The breakfast buffet was impressive, offering a wide range of options—from made-to-order eggs to fresh local fruits, yogurt, pastries, and a variety of warm and cold dishes. There’s even an Andalusian corner with local delights like Manchego cheese and jamón. The tomato and onion omelette was my favorite, cooked to perfection, and the selection of herbal teas was a great way to cap off a delightful meal.
My stay at Kempinski Hotel Bahia was nothing short of blissful. The combination of tranquil surroundings, excellent service, and luxury made it a memorable experience. If you're ever in the area and looking for a place to unwind, I’d highly recommend this resort.
