Marbella and the nearby Puerto Banus for many years, have been known as 'a playground for the rich and famous', hence there are an abundance of luxury villas available for rent with 5* services to go alongside including concierge, maid and catering services. The reputation of these exclusive resorts relate back to the 1950s when German aristocracy stumbled upon the old town and became enamoured by its personality and potential for something special.  Special it is, for this stunning area of the Costa del Sol continues to uphold its glamorous appeal and celebrity status for which it is renowned, many luxury villas and exclusive resorts have been built here.

Marbella has a down to earth side as well, an air of originality which can be best appreciated by exploring the back streets in the old part of town. One of the prettiest places is the fabled 'Orange Square' or "La Plaza de los Naranjos", with aromatic orange groves , which is located just off the main street in the older district and is also home to the 16th century Town hall and tourist office where you can pick up a detailed map and visitor information. The atmosphere here is wonderfully relaxed, stroll through the cobbled streets and plazas, browsing the boutiques and mingling with the locals.  The old town is bustling with life during the many festivities as are San Pedro to the west and Mijas Pueblo to the east; these quaint towns and white washed villages express the heart and soul of Andalucía.

The cosmopolitan culture is certainly a key attribute, with luxury villa rentals, exclusive bars and restaurants and designer shops full of temptation. The elegant harbour of Puerto Banús was built in 1970 by José Banús, a local property developer, as a luxury marina and shopping complex for the jet-set and the super rich, as you can imagine, it offers such indulgence with incredible style.  By day, the marina is bustling; it has berths for 915 boats, including those of the King of Saudi Arabia and several of the world's wealthiest individuals; eyes turning to admire the extravagance of the yachts moored here. Behind the harbour lie streets filled with cafes, restaurants and boutiques, by night, the streets are alive as music flavours pulsate from the bars and legendary clubs.... Back towards the coast you will find La Alameda park where you can book your personal horse & carriage to travel in style or, if you prefer, stroll on towards the sea along the Avenida del Mar. This is arguably one of the most delightful promenades along the coast, flanked by classy restaurants and bars.

Some people fall in love with the vibrant lifestyle and character of Marbella, for others the allure is simply golf and luxury villas. The Costa del Sol is dotted with World class golf resorts and Marbella boasts some exceptional courses, skilfully designed, highly groomed and a challenge for all levels of play.  In the Spanish climate these fairways are a pleasure to tread and highly recommended.  Throughout the region, there's plenty to explore; Gibraltar with its British influences; Jerez with its sherry wine and flamenco and the Sierra de Ronda with its deep ravines and gorges, not to mention the yachting opportunities, what an enchanting region to explore.