Think of the balmy Costa Del Sol, and you think of Marbella. Since the 1950s it’s been a tourist hotspot thanks to the promise of (almost) guaranteed sunshine and a sweet subtropical climate. Because of this, there are plenty of places to stay in this buzzy beach town – so many that you might end up paralysed by choice. If you’ve got the cash, then El Fuerte Marbella makes that decision a whole lot easier. This grande dame of the Costa Del Sol has been there since the start of this particular boom in Spanish tourism, opening in 1957 – back before the skyline was dominated by highrise blocks – and securing itself an enviable beachfront spot. Over the years the family-run hotel has just got bigger, with a complete refurb in 2023. It’s right in the middle of town, with the charming old town just a five minute walk away.
Why stay at El Fuerte Marbella?
If you like things fancy, you’ll like El Fuerte. It’s a large, luxury hotel and their recent refurb still feels spanking brand new, with lots of putty pink Mediterranean tiling. Of the 266 rooms and suites, 78 come under the ‘Selected’ banner, which is basically a high-end hotel within the hotel. It’s all-inclusive but not as you know it; book a ‘Selected’ room (of course, they are more expensive) and you’ll have exclusive access to an all-day space with free snacks and booze, as well as a separate breakfast room to keep you away from the riff-raff. There’s also a lovely rooftop for all-day sunbathing and dips in the pool, which then becomes a bar and restaurant in the evening. Check out the Hall of Fame downstairs to see pictures of notable former guests, from Walt Disney, to European nobility, famous bullfighters, Spanish singer Lola Flores, and British movie star Diana Dors, who filmed ‘Scent of Mystery’ on the beach in 1959.
What are the rooms like at El Fuerte Marbella?
Expect massive beds, free-standing bathtubs, showers with overly complicated knobs and toiletries from Molton Brown. As well as the prerequisite hairdryer, rooms also come with steamers for sorting out your crinkly clothing, and a minibar packed with all the important things; Spanish crisps, Fanta Limon, beers, spirits and emergency chocolate. You’ll pay more for a seaview suite, but if you do bag one you’ll get an uninterrupted look at the ocean and a comfy balcony on which to gaze at it from. There’s also a heated loo seat – complete with a somewhat baffling remote control – but despite us switching on all the lights, the bathroom was a little dark for me.
What is the food like at El Fuerte Marbella?
Breakfast doesn’t mess about. There’s a vast, bountiful buffet available during the very reasonable hours of 7.30am to 11.30am – perfectly accommodating for lie-ins and hangovers alike. Go for a crepe, omelette or eggs to order, or hit up the charcuterie style selection of meats and cheeses, as well as fresh fruit, cereals, fry-up adjacent breakfasts, and granola, including an entire area dedicated to different kinds of honey. There’s freshly squeezed orange juice, smoothies, cava and all the coffee and tea you could want, as well as the option of a 14-course breakfast tasting menu in the ‘Selected’ lounge and terrace. For lunch and dinner there are numerous on-site options, as well as a cute coffee bar. During the summer you can dine on the hotel rooftop at Edge by Paco Pérez, a Michelin star Spanish chef – alas it was closed when we visited, due to a rare gloomy and rainy day. On the ground floor you’ll find the slightly more casual Levante with pizza, pasta and a number of dishes with an Asian twist. The most engaging though is Restaurante Soleo, which is right on the seafront and offers traditional, tapas and local fare including oozing cheese croquetas, sardines, anchovies and Andalusian squid and lobster stew, as well as a heroic lobster, crisps and egg special.
What is the pool and gym like at El Fuerte Marbella?
Sure, the beach is right there, but why bother with all that pesky sand when you have three infinity pools and a hot tub at your service? During the summer, the two ground level pools are respectfully split between families with children and adults who want some peace, quiet and a cocktail. Up on the sixth floor, you’ll find the gym, with cross trainers, running machines, weights, and, most captivatingly, an incredible view of the ocean. There’s also a rooftop yoga terrace and a personal trainer on hand if you’d like to book them for a private session. The spa is in the basement and run by Clarins, with six treatment rooms as well as a hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam room.
What’s the area like around El Fuerte Marbella?
The winding, narrow cobbled streets of the Old Town are just a quick stroll away and definitely worth a visit for the magnificent churches, sweet squares and plenty of places to sip a sundowner. Access to the beach is super easy – there’s a lift! – down from the hotel’s pool area, and if you head to Avenida del Mar you’ll find an incredible collection of Salvador Sali sculptures worth millions of euros.
Why should you book at stay at El Fuerte Marbella
To see a side of the Costa Del Sol far removed from the rowdy beach bar and stag do reputation. It’s on the more expensive side of the town’s accommodation, but offers a chilled-out, luxury escape while still being in the middle of the action.
DETAILS
Address: C. el Fuerte, s/n, 29602 Marbella, Málaga, Spain
Price per night: Standard rooms from €390; ‘Selected’ rooms from €510
Closest transport: Malaga airport is a 30/45 minute drive
Book now: Via Booking.com