This hotel is all about sun, sea, and style
An early flight is rarely an enjoyable thing but this particular early flight to Marbella on a Friday morning, to go and visit the El Fuerte hotel, is something else.
At the airport, it’s straight through security, and as I pop into the toilets, right in front of me stands a giant of a man wearing an electric blue sequinned mini dress and a terrible blonde wig with pigtails, looking like Harley Quinn, the budget version. He smirks at me, suggesting I should know that he’s going into his stag weekend with an open mind, humour and gusto. I can only wish him the very best in his recovery (or not) from the alcohol poisoning I have cursed him with under my breath.
In the queue for the flight, I spot him and another man in a similar blue dress and blonde wig, what are the chances, especially this being a British Airways flight? The chavs have gone boujie. Onboard, I am, of course, sat amongst a hen party, wedged between the bride herself and her mate who’s pouring a course of cystitis treatment into her water. The rest of their party take over another two rows on both sides of the plane, and two of them are LOUD, discussing, with no shame, how they could get away with vaping during the flight. I put in my headphones, activate the noise cancelling function and close my eyes.
On the Spanish tarmac, the heat belts my face as I descend the stairs and catch up to a colleague. “How was your flight?” they ask. I roll my eyes and put on my sunglasses. “Welcome to Marbella” I say.
Checking into El Fuerte Marbella feels like stepping into a different world, far removed from the chaos of my journey. Right on the seafront and close to the charming Old Town, the location is perfect. The transformation of the hotel, led by Jaime Beriestain Studio, is nothing short of stunning. The design is contemporary and sleek but still has plenty of Andalusian spirit.
My room, part of the hotel’s ‘Selected’ category, is a stylish haven; earthy tones of terracotta, golden brown, and green created a soothing ambience, complemented by soft fabrics, natural textures and hand-made local crafts. The room is spacious, with a private balcony offering breathtaking views of the sea. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and watch the sun set over the Mediterranean.
Dining options at El Fuerte Marbella are spread out over five restaurants that offer a variety of delights. The beachfront chiringuito, Soleo, serves fresh Mediterranean flavours, while the poolside Levante offers Andalusian-inspired dishes. You can get a laidback breakfast at Le Marche, otherwise Qahwa Coffee House, with its speciality coffee and standout cappuccinos, is a great morning spot. The fine-dining restaurant, led by multi-Michelin-starred chef Paco Pérez, is the highlight. His impressive tasting menus, focusing on local produce, takes guests on a sensory journey delivered with elegance and flair.
The hotel boasts two swimming pools, both with stunning sea views and direct beach access. The rooftop terrace, with its infinity pool, offers panoramic views of the sea and mountains. By night, it’s transformed into a vibrant bar with lounge seating, serving Andalusian-inspired cocktails.
The Clarins spa, with whirlpools, saunas, treatment rooms, and a gym, is one of my fave places in the whole hotel. The earthy feel, from forest green tiling, brown ceramic walls and low lighting, makes it the ideal environment for relaxation.
As much as there’s plenty to keep you occupied at El Fuerte Marbella, there’s lots to explore outside the hotel. A short walk takes you to the charming Old Town, where Moorish architecture and pretty Spanish plazas sit side by side. Plaza de los Naranjos, with its fragrant orange trees and bustling tapas spots, is a must-visit. The hotel’s direct beach access makes it easy to stroll along the ‘paseo maritimo’ or take a boat out to sea.
El Fuerte Marbella is more than just a hotel; it’s an experience. From the rich history of the building to the modern, luxurious amenities, it offers the perfect blend of old and new. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool, indulge in gourmet dining, or explore the beautiful surroundings, El Fuerte Marbella has it all. I can’t wait to return.
El Fuerte, C. el Fuerte, s/n, 29602 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
elfuertemarbella.com
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