Luxury Hotels in the Costa del Sol: La Fuente de la Higuera
We have even more respect for the Obamas having heard of their plans for a Costa del Sol vacation next week. We’ve long been advocates of this overlooked holiday destination and think that Mrs Obama and her daughters are in for a real treat.
Not quite convinced that the Costa del Sol has hotels fit for a President’s family? Look no further than the hand-picked selection below; if Michelle decides to venture beyond Marbella, these are the places we’d recommend checking out…
The Rustic Bolthole: Cortijo Valverde
Cortijo Valverde is a beautiful boutique hotel that’s off the Costa’s beaten track (all the better for avoiding those pesky paparazzi). Overlooking the picture-perfect Moorish village of Alora, it is utterly serene and a great choice for family holidays.
There’s a real home-from-home atmosphere here; a traditional Andalucían dinner is served each evening on a long communal table, the gardens are lushly green and the pool area is kept low-key and private. The fact that it’s an easy 45-minute drive from Malaga Airport just adds to its charms.
Find out more about Cortijo Valverde
The Mountain Retreat: Fountainhead
Fountainhead’s setting in the mountainous wilds of Andalucía belies the eclectic interiors within. This is a luxury resort that combines style with substance; for all its quirky design features and costly artwork, it remains a family-friendly retreat with a homely heart.
Even better for parents is the knowledge that phones, televisions and even plug points are non-existent (though can be provided if absolutely necessary). The owners assume a hands-off approach, allowing guests to enjoy first-class hiking trails, a sublime organic restaurant, day-trips to Granada (a two-hour drive away) and yoga classes in the pavilion.
Find out more about Fountainhead
The Ultra-Luxurious Resort: Finca Cortesin
Forget any preconceptions you may have of the traditional Spanish finca (farmhouse). Finca Cortesin is a polished and elegant luxury hotel with myriad facilities, including a championship-standard golf course, a choice of restaurants and a sumptuous spa.
Its close proximity to some of Marbella’s best beaches, together with truly impeccable staff, have won it a loyal following. It’s certainly not a budget option on the Costa del Sol, but somehow we don’t think that’ll be worrying the Obamas.
Find out more about Finca Cortesin
The Michelin-starred Marvel: La Fuente de la Higuera
Dutch owners Pom and Christine Piek created La Fuente de la Higuera as an escape from nearby Ronda. It is a very convenient retreat, just 15-minutes by car from the city and surrounded by sweeping views of the surrounded countryside.
The biggest draw is its Michelin-starred restaurant, El Tragabuche, which serves faultless regional cuisine. Elsewhere, guests can enjoy the wisteria-filled gardens, the traditional Turkish bath and a well-stocked library.
Find out more about La Fuente de la Higuera
Inspired by the Obamas’ holiday plans? Then check out our entire collection of luxury hotels on the Costa del Sol…
My wife and I stayed in the Finca Cortesin 3 years ago while on a property hunting trip in Costa Del Sol. It was a treat! The weather was cloudy, which is very unusual for that part of Spain in May, but the hotel made up for it. I always love a good, rich breakfast in a hotel and The Finca Cortesin had the best Spanish omelet I ever had