Marbella is known as a playground for the rich and famous. But tucked away from theย flashy nightlife and bustling beaches are two neighbourhoods that offer aย different kind of luxury. Nueva Andalucia and the Golden Mile both have theirย own charm, but which one is right for you? At Swish Marbella, we have vacation properties in both areas, so let us help you decide.
Nueva Andalucia: Where Golf is King
If you’re a golf aficionado, Nueva Andalucia is your haven. With world-class courses like Los Naranjos Golf Club, Aloha Golf Club, and Real Club de Golf Las Brisas just minutes away, you’ll be spoilt for choice. And when you’re done with your round, retire to your tranquil villa, like Villa Paris or Villa La Gratitud, where you can unwind in peace.
Nueva Andalucia is known for its world-class golf courses, which are among the best in Europe.
Here are some of the top courses in the area:
Aloha Golf Club – Aloha Golf Club is a par-72 course that was designed by Javier Arana. The course is known for its challenging layout, with tight fairways and fast greens. It is surrounded by stunning mountain views, making it a popular destination for golfers who want to combine sport and scenery.
Las Brisas Golf Club – Las Brisas Golf Club is a par-72 course that was designed by Robert Trent Jones. The course is known for its water hazards, which come into play on several holes. It is also surrounded by stunning mountain views and lush vegetation.
Los Naranjos Golf Club – Los Naranjos Golf Club is a par-72 course that was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. The course is known for its challenging layout, with tight fairways and fast greens. It is surrounded by stunning mountain views and lush vegetation.
La Quinta Golf Club – La Quinta Golf Club is a par-72 course that was designed by Manuel Pinero. The course is known for its challenging layout, with water hazards and bunkers coming into play on several holes. It is also surrounded by stunning mountain views and lush vegetation.
Where is Nueva Andalucia?
Nueva Andalucia, a charming and thoughtfully designed neighbourhood, lies just west of Marbella. Its striking villas and apartments showcase traditional Andalusian architecture, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage. As Marbella’s largest district, Nueva Andalucia spans several square kilometres and boasts a census population of roughly 15,000 residents. However, the population swells during the summer months, as many flock to this beautiful locale for vacation.
The inception of Nueva Andalucia can be traced back to 1962 when Madrid developer Jose Banรบs Masdeu first set foot in Marbella and acquired the land. The construction of the now-famous Puerto Banรบs marina commenced in 1965, culminating in its grand inauguration in 1968. Following the successful launch of Puerto Banรบs, Nueva Andalucia’s primary infrastructure was rapidly implemented. The area experienced significant development up until 1989, with another growth spurt in the early 2000’s.
The Golden Mile: Decadent Glamour on the Beach
The Golden Mile is where you go to be seen. The area is lined with high-end restaurants, bars, and clubs, like the legendary Olivia Valere and the two iconic hotels, Marbella Club and The Puente Romano.
One of the most iconic and luxurious hotels in Marbella is the Marbella Club. Founded in 1954 by Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe, the Marbella Club is a landmark of glamour and exclusivity in the region. The hotel boasts 130 rooms and suites, 12 villas, a private beach, a golf course, a wellness centre, and a range of high-end restaurants and bars. The Marbella Club has hosted numerous celebrities and royal families, including Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, and the Saudi royal family.
The Puente Romano is another iconic hotel located on The Golden Mile. The hotel is named after the nearby Roman Bridge, which dates back to the 1st century AD. Puente
Romano has a Mediterranean village feel, with 266 rooms and suites, 78 privateย villas, a beach club, 12 restaurants, and a tennis club. The hotel is also homeย to the Puente Romano Tennis Club, which hosts the annual Marbella Tennis Open,ย attracting some of the biggest names in the sport. At Swish, we have luxuryย apartments inside the hotel.ย You can stay in one of Swish Marbella’s private apartments at the Puente Romano, and you’ll be in the midst of the action. And when you’ve had enough, retreat to your luxurious abode and recharge for the next night out.
One such property is the beautiful Amazonas, a three-bedroom apartment in the second phase of the hotel, surrounded by tropical gardens. ย With on street, gated parking and a high -spec interior and kitchen, you have all you need here to base yourself where you need to be to enjoy the fun of Marbella.
Where is the Golden Mile?
The Golden Mile, Marbella’s most prestigious and upscale residential area, stretches along a spectacular 5-kilometer maritime promenade, enveloped by lush greenery and breath-taking scenery. It extends from the entrance of Puerto Banus to the iconic Pirulรญ, a copper-plated landmark symbolizing the city of Marbella.
Nestled along the beachside, the Golden Mile is renowned for its exquisite, private villas with direct beach access. These luxurious homes are owned by distinguished politicians and successful business magnates, who have cherished their properties for generations.
The Golden Mile or Nueva Andalucia: Which is Best for You?
- Best for Families: Nueva Andalucia.ย The area is quiet and safe, with plenty of space for kids to play. The villas offer privacy and plenty of space for everyone.
- Best for Golf Addicts: Nueva Andalucia.ย With world-class courses on your doorstep, you’ll never tire of the challenges they present.
- Best for Nature Enthusiasts: Nueva Andalucia.ย The area is surrounded by mountains and is a great starting point for hiking, biking, and exploring the stunning Andalusian countryside.
- Best for Shopaholics: The Golden Mile.ย The area is home to some of the most exclusive boutiques and high-end fashion stores in Marbella.
- Best for Night Owls: The Golden Mile. The strip comes alive at night with a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs to keep you entertained until the early hours.
- Best for Those Needing a Good Rest:ย Both areas could work, Nueva Andalucia and The Golden Mile have tranquil areas and properties where you can escape. But, if we had to choose one, we would say Nueva Andalucia where you can often wake up to bird song.
- Best for Beach Addicts: Sun worshippers, rejoice!ย For those who can’t get enough of the sand and sea, the Golden Mile is your best bet. The beaches here are wide and sandy, with clear waters and plenty of beach clubs to keep you refreshed. Nueva Andalucia, on the other hand, is a little further inland, but you’re never more than a 10-minute drive from the coast.
Both Nueva Andalucia and the Golden Mile offer their own unique brand of luxury. Whether you’re a golf addict, beach lover, or nightlife enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. So, which one will you choose? We are here to help you with your next holiday choice in Marbella.
Browse our full collection of Luxury Vacation Villas here.
