Luxury trips to the Costa del Sol

Why choose the Costa del Sol for luxury getaways?

Do you think of the Costa del Sol as being "just" a cheap and cheerful holiday destination? Think again. It stretches for more than 150 km, and each zone has a vibe all of its own. While some of the coastal towns are known for their budget-friendly package holidays, other parts ooze luxury and exclusivity. You'll find some of the world's most famous beach clubs, designer shopping, gourmet food and superb golf courses.

Where should you stay for your luxury holiday?

If you're looking for luxury holiday lettings in the Costa del Sol, then you simply must start with Marbella. This is without a doubt the most exclusive town in the Costa del Sol, and it's where you're most likely to do a spot of celeb-spotting. Michelle Obama, Hugh Grant and Gareth Bale have all been known to spend holidays here, while the King of Saudi Arabia, Lord Alan Sugar and Málaga native Antonio Banderas all own lavish properties around town. A few kilometres inland from Marbella, the gorgeous mountain town of Benahavís is also a good choice, particularly if you're craving peace and quiet.

Spend the afternoon at a legendary beach club

If you want to chill out, nothing beats a beach club. Marbella's most famous is Nikki Beach, which has a child-free zone around the swimming pools that offers unparalleled peace and quiet. On the other hand, if you want to bring the kids for a spot of luxury, head to Mistral Beach in Puerto Banús. This child-friendly club has lots of watersports and fun activities. Gourmet travellers will love La Sala by the Sea, a food-focused beach club with a unique Asian fusion menu.

Enjoy a round of golf

For many travellers, no luxury trip to the Costa del Sol would be complete without 18 holes. You're in luck: there are more than 20 golf courses just in the Marbella area. Marbella Golf Club is known for its stunning views, with mountains and waterfalls framing its picturesque greens. The Marbella Golf and Country Club features nine hilltop holes, which will challenge even the experienced golfer. At La Quina, there's a Turkish bath waiting for you when you finish your round. For more information, this guide to golf in the Costa del Sol will help you plan your trip.

Dine out in style

Forget tapas on the beach - there are so many choices for fine dining in the Costa del Sol. Marbella offers a branch of Nobu, the world-famous fine Japanese restaurant that with delicate, perfectly balanced dishes. If you'd rather try the local flavours, head to Skina. This restaurant has been awarded two Michelin stars for its fresh, innovative takes on classic Andalusian dishes. Celebrated chef and Marbella native Dani Garcia's latest restaurant, Leña, is another of the most popular eateries in town. Make sure you've built up an appetite before dining there: it's a grill house with a difference, offering generous portions of some of the world's finest meat and fish.

Soothe yourself at a spa

Want to add a spa break to your luxury getaway? Try the Marbella Club Thalasso Spa, which uses the naturally soothing properties of seawater in many of its treatments. Its indoor seawater pool is perfect for a special treat. Alternatively, head to Healthouse Las Dunas in Estepona. As well as having sensation pools, hot and cold caves and a flotarium, this is one of the best places to try yoga in the Costa del Sol. If you're in Málaga city and you want something different, pay a visit to the Al Ándalus Hammam. This traditional hammam has relaxing pools and excellent massage treatments surrounded by stunning Moorish architecture.