Discover the five best places to watch the sunset in Marbella and marvel at the stunning skies and breathtaking views of the Costa del Sol. Not to be missed.
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[post_content] => The history of golf goes back to 1552, when the first golf course in the world opened in St Andrews, Scotland. Since then, it has grown into one of the world’s best loved sports, and thousands of courses have been created by talented golf course architects.
Marbella, and the Costa del Sol in general, is a golfers’ paradise. While we didn’t get our first course in Andalucia until the 1920s, there’s a reason why this is known as the Costa del Golf!
This area boasts more than 70 golf courses, designed and built between 1925 and the present day. We’ve been lucky to have some of the very best designers produce courses here, and our courses are consistently featured in the lists of top golf courses in Europe.
Probably the best known and one of the most prolific golf course architect to shape Marbella and the Costa del Sol’s golf scene is Robert Trent Jones Sr. He is behind nine fantastic courses on the Costa del Sol, including; Real Sotogrande, Real Las Brisas, Los Naranjos, Marbella Golf & Country Club and the most famous and highly esteemed – Valderrama.
Other talented designers that have created the incredible array of golf courses on the Costa del Sol include; Seve Ballesteros, José María Cañizares, Cabell Robinson, Javier Arana, Antonio García Garrido, Gary Player, Juan Ligués Creus, Dave Thomas, Juan Carlos Martínez, Mariano Benítez, Manuel Piñero and Enrique Canales Busquets.
History of golf culture on the Costa del Sol
Golf arrived in Spain way back in 1891, but the first course in Andalucia didn’t open until 1925, in Malaga. But once it started, there was no stopping the development of golf in Andalucia, and despite that slow start, it now has more golf clubs than any other autonomous communities in Spain – a whopping 92 in total.
The first golf course in Marbella itself is Guadalmina Golf Club, which opened its doors in 1959. This was designed by Javier Arana, widely held to be one of the best Spanish golf course designers of all time. He also designed Rio Real, which opened in 1965. German golf architect Bernard von Limburger designed Atalaya Golf, which opened in 1968 and Robert Trent Jones Las Brisas followed in 1969.
Once established as a golfing hotspot, the sport started to attract off-peak tourists, to help make Marbella a truly year-round destination and many more golf courses followed. There are now over 70 golf courses and it is known as much for its golf as for its beaches.
The Top 5 Golf Course Architects in Marbella
With so many notable names involved in designing and creating golf courses in Marbella, we have decided to pick our top 5. These are the people we feel have most impacted the golf scene in Marbella and who have designed some of our favorite courses.
Robert Trent Jones
We have to start with the legendary Robert Trent Jones, who cut his teeth building Real Sotogrande in 1964, his first course in Europe. This is still rated as the second-best golf course in Spain, by Top 100 Golf Courses, just behind his most revered design at Valderrama Golf Club.
In 1968, he designed Marbella’s third golf course – Las Brisas, in Nueva Andalucia. Jones is also responsible for Los Naranjos in the golf valley of Nueva Andalucia and Marbella Golf.
In total, he designed nine golf courses on the Costa del Sol, and is listed number 9 in the list of best golf course architects. He has certainly left his mark on the Costa del Golf!
Cabell B. Robinson
American golf course architect Cabell B. Robinson studied landscape architecture in California and worked with Robert Trent Jones in Spain from 1970. He was involved with many of his early projects before striking out on his own.
He is known as one of the most prolific golf course designers, alongside his mentor.
He lives on the Costa del Sol and has created some fantastic golf courses here, including La Cala Resort, La Reserva de Sotogrande, Santana Golf & Country Club, Valle Romano and Finca Cortesín.
Severiano Ballesteros
Seve Ballesteros was an incredible Spanish golfer, who became a very important golf course architect and left behind two wonderful golf courses in the Malaga province, with one located close to Marbella, in the golfing hotspot on Benahavis.
His design for Los Arqueros Golf includes 18 challenging holes, which blend into the beautiful countryside around it and offers some spectacular views. This course is not for the faint hearted, with narrow fairways and water obstacles a plenty.
Dave Thomas
Welsh golfer, turned golf course architect, Dave Thomas had significant success as a professional player, before an injury forced him to think about the next chapter in his career. He designed over 100 courses during his long career, including more than 20 in Europe.
On the Costa del Sol, he has created quite the legacy, designing the Almenara Golf Club, the La Hacienda Links Golf Resort and San Roque (Old Course) in the Sotogrande area. In Marbella, Dave Thomas designed and built the exceptional Marbella Club Golf Resort Course in 1999. This par 72 course is praised for its excellent fairways, and roughs and welcoming greens.
Antonio García Garrido
This Spanish architect really left his mark on Marbella having designed the Flamingos Golf Club, the first nine holes of Santa Maria Golf & Country Club and the Doña Julia Golf Club in the Casares area of the Western Costa del Sol.
We love golf here at Vacation Marbella and have created our list of top 10 Marbella golf courses to help you to have the best golf holiday. You can also book golf green fees on our website and contact us for golf recommendations and of course holiday rentals in the city.
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[post_content] => The new Netflix reality series, Making it in Marbella, is creating a buzz in the world of luxury real estate. Released to high anticipation, particularly in markets like Sweden, the series follows a group of high-profile agents from Homerun Brokers, a Swedish agency specialising in exclusive properties in Marbella. With a blend of drama, competition, and high-stakes real estate transactions, the show has sparked interest beyond Marbella, drawing an audience eager to get a glimpse into the glamorous yet challenging world of luxury real estate in this iconic Spanish destination. As Marbella's real estate market continues to thrive, the series taps into the public’s fascination with high-end properties, luxury lifestyles, and the professional rivalries that drive success in this elite sector.
Marbella as a European Luxury Real Estate Hub
Marbella has established itself as one of Europe’s key luxury destinations, especially in real estate. Known for its beaches, enviable climate, and exclusive nightlife, the city attracts a high-profile international clientele seeking a combination of natural beauty and premium services. Marbella stands out for its luxurious infrastructure, which includes renowned golf courses, exclusive marinas like Puerto Banús, and cutting-edge properties that compete on the global market.
Additionally, the boom in Marbella's real estate market has been driven by interest from buyers around the world, from Europe and the United States to the Middle East and Asia. This destination has managed to establish itself not only as a holiday spot but also as a solid investment in high-value properties that epitomise exclusivity in the European market. The demand for modern villas, sea-view penthouses, and properties offering a unique quality of life is steady and growing, reinforcing Marbella’s position as a benchmark for luxury and exclusivity on the continent.
What is the series about?
Making it in Marbella is a reality series that allows viewers to delve into the exciting and competitive luxury real estate market in Marbella. Released on Netflix on 1 October 2024, the series documents the lives of real estate agents from Homerun Brokers, a Swedish firm specialising in high-end properties on the Costa del Sol. The series takes us behind the scenes, showcasing the challenges and opportunities these agents face as they compete for the best properties while trying to attract Marbella's most exclusive clients.
Each of the six episodes explores the challenges of selling luxury properties in a highly competitive market, revealing the intense and glamorous aspects of this profession. Making it in Marbella highlights not only professional achievements but also the personal struggles of each agent, showing how they balance their work and personal lives in a high-pressure, competitive environment.
A Battle for Commissions and Professional Recognition
The central focus of the series is the intense competition among agents to secure the highest commissions and gain recognition within their team and the industry. Each luxury property represents a significant financial opportunity, sparking fierce competition as agents vie for top clients and substantial deals. The episodes show how these professionals face high-pressure situations, demanding negotiations, and clients who seek more than just a property – they want a unique, personalised experience.
Furthermore, Making it in Marbella highlights the relationships and tensions among agents, who are not only after commissions but also aim to build a reputation in an industry where credibility and recognition are key to attracting the best clients. This competitive dynamic provides insight into the high stakes of the sector, illustrating that success in Marbella’s luxury real estate market requires not only expertise but also a blend of determination, negotiation skills, and the ability to build strong client relationships.
What’s Real in Making it in Marbella?
Borja Rodríguez, with years of experience in Marbella's luxury real estate sector, offers some key points that help readers understand the reality of this industry beyond the drama of reality television.
Competitively intense: The series accurately portrays the fierce competition among agents to secure exclusive clients and properties, a very real element in Marbella's market, where limited inventory meets high demand for unique properties and experiences.
Glamorous lifestyle: Although Making it in Marbella emphasises the glamour of the industry, Borja points out that behind the glitz is constant effort and meticulous preparation for each transaction. Luxury is a part of Marbella’s appeal, but every real estate success requires professionalism, a deep understanding of the market, and trusted client relationships.
Dramatisation of conflicts: Like in many reality shows, some conflicts are exaggerated to increase viewer interest. Borja comments that while there are tensions and competition, professionalism and collaboration tend to prevail in Marbella’s real estate relationships, in an environment that values teamwork and mutual respect.
Through these observations, Borja Rodríguez offers a nuanced view of how the luxury real estate sector in Marbella is truly experienced, contrasting with the dramatic liberties of television.
How Borja Views the Present and Future of the Sector
After years of experience in Marbella’s luxury real estate market, Borja shares his perspective on the changes that are already underway and those expected in the near future. Below are some key points that help to understand the direction the sector is taking.
Increasing international demand: Marbella continues to attract high-profile international clients, especially from Europe and the Middle East. This demand ensures a steady flow of buyers who see Marbella as the ideal destination for a second home, supporting stable market growth.
Sustainability and technology as essential elements: Increasingly, luxury buyers seek properties that integrate sustainability and advanced technology. From energy-efficient solutions to smart home systems, the incorporation of these elements is becoming highly valued, and Borja sees this approach as crucial to Marbella’s future market.
Personalisation and exclusive experiences: Clients are not only looking for a luxury property; they want a unique, personalised experience. Marbella, with its exclusive lifestyle and ambience, offers the perfect setting for this. Vacation Marbella has worked to make each stay an unforgettable experience, adapting to individual client preferences.
Expansion of premium services: Marbella is already known for its high-end golf, marinas, and dining offerings, but the demand for even more exclusive services is growing. Borja observes that the trend is toward premium wellness, personalised activities, and luxury experiences – aspects that will set high-end properties apart in the region.
With this perspective, Borja emphasises that Marbella’s luxury real estate market is continuously evolving to meet the demands of an exacting and sophisticated clientele. At Vacation Marbella, the focus remains on innovating and adapting services to respond to these new demands, ensuring that Marbella continues to be a benchmark in European luxury.
[post_title] => Making it in Marbella: The Reality Show on Marbella's Luxury Real Estate Sector
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[post_content] => Marbella is situated in the heart of the Costa del Golf, close to over 70 fantastic golf courses. It’s a paradise for golfers, thanks to all those courses in a small area and the beautiful climate. But when should you come and play? In this article, we’ll let you know when is golf season in Marbella.
Golf season in Marbella
You can play golf all year round in Marbella. We’re blessed with more than 320 days of sunshine, so you’ll be unlucky to have a rainy day on the fairways. Even if you come and visit Marbella in the middle of summer, you can grab a round or two. But although it’s the peak season for tourists, it’s not the most popular time for golf, due to the high temperatures.
Low seasons
If you check the golf courses in Marbella and look at their green fees, you can see the high and low seasons marked. Low seasons are considered to be January and February, June, July and August and mid-November to the end of December.
January, February, November and December are the coolest months of the year in Marbella, with the most rain, which is why they are considered the low season. But, if you’re coming over from the UK or Northern Europe, you definitely won’t find it cold, or wet. The lowest average temperature at night is only 8⁰C, and the maximum days of rain is 5 per month – so not too much to worry about!
June, July and August are beautiful times to be in Marbella, but most visitors at this time of year are wanting to be at the beach, or in the pool, rather than getting sweaty on the golf course.
High Seasons
Definitely, the most popular times to play golf in Marbella are definitely spring and autumn.
Autumn is a great time to be in Marbella, especially if you want to play golf. As soon as the school summer holidays are over, and the cooler September weather arrives, people flock to the golf courses. September and October are the very best times, as there’s very little rain, bright sunshine and blue skies, but relatively cooler and more comfortable temperatures to get active.
These months are such a lovely time to visit Marbella, with plenty to do and see. Following the summer the prices of flights and accommodation drop too, so it’s a great time to consider.
Spring is also a popular golf season in Marbella, as the temperatures start to climb from March, the air is fresh and although you can get a few showers, you’d be unlucky to get sustained rain during your stay.
In March, you’ll get highs of 20⁰C and lows of 10⁰C and in April highs of 22⁰C and lows of 11⁰C and there are only four days of rain each month on average.
May starts to really warm up, so if you love warm weather and would like to combine golf days with time at beach clubs, or hitting the clubs, this is an excellent month to do both, before the heat really kicks in.
Benefits of playing during Marbella’s golf season
The golf season represents the absolute optimum time to play golf in Marbella and so you’ll get the best weather for a round.
As it’s a popular time, the atmosphere in the club house will be great and you can time it for a golf event or two.
You’re likely to meet like-minded people at the club and out and about after your rounds and it’s a very sociable and fun time to play.
Marbella’s golf season also coincides with the off-peak season when it comes to other tourism. This means that it is considerably cheaper to fly and to find accommodation during this time. The restaurants, bars and clubs are also more able to handle big groups, as it’s quiet, and if you’re traveling in a larger group, you’ll be very well looked after.
Downsides of playing golf during golf season
On the flip side, the golf season represents the busiest time on the fairways, so preferred tee times might be hard to come by. Also, if you are inexperienced golfers, and may take longer than average to get round the course, you might be getting pressure from groups behind and feel uncomfortable.
It is also significantly more expensive to play golf in Marbella in the high season and deals are limited. Whereas in the low season, it is better value for money.
Tips to prepare for the Marbella golf season
Hit the driving range – Get prepared for your golf holiday in Marbella back home, by practicing on the driving range and perfecting your shots, so you are at your best when you arrive.
Pre-select your courses – With so many courses to choose from it can be very hard to know where you want to play. You can check out our recommendations of the 10 best golf courses in Marbella as a great place to start. Then look at the green fees to decide which ones are in your budget. Finally, plan your trip and decide if you want to play every day, or have days where you go sightseeing, or relax and unwind, and choose your dates. When you’re ready, you can book Green Fees through Vacation Marbella for great deals and prices.
Book your flights and accommodation – Look for available flights into Malaga Airport and then into availability of accommodation in Marbella. We’d recommend searching for vacation rental properties near the best golf courses and look at larger properties that you can share with your golf group. This can work out cheaper per head than hotels, and offer a fantastic space to relax and hang out after a round. Alternatively, you might decide that you’d rather be at the heart of all the action, if going out on the town in the evenings is a high priority.
Think about transport – You’ll need to either hire cars to get you around, or look into transfers and private drivers in Marbella.
Get to know the courses – Check out the hole-by-hole guides, to familiarize yourself with the courses you’re due to play and get tips on how to have the best game. You can also check out the services to see if there are driving ranges or putting greens which you can use to make sure you’re fully prepared for the round. You can even decide to hire a golf instructor in Marbella, to help you improve your game, or to accompany you around the course.
Can you play golf in winter in Marbella?
Absolutely! Although winter is considered to be the low season for the golf courses, it’s also a great time to play golf in Marbella, as it rarely gets cold here or rains. In November, you’ll get highs of 20⁰C and lows of 11⁰C and in December highs of 18⁰C and lows of 9⁰C and there are only five days of rain each month on average.
As it's the low season, you can also benefit from some great deals and reduced green fees, alongside the cheapest accommodation, so it’s the best value time to take a golf holiday in Marbella.
Do golf courses close in Marbella in winter?
No, most golf courses are open all year round and you could even play on Christmas Day if you want to.
Many golf clubs also host special Christmas and New Year events too, so you can spend a special Christmas in Marbella with the family and play golf too. The perfect present!
Check out our guide on enjoying Marbella in the winter, for more tips on visiting Marbella at this time of year.
Where to stay for a golf holiday in Marbella?
There are so many golf courses in and around Marbella, that you can really take your pick of places to stay, but here are two areas with the highest density of courses and good access to post game activities.
Stay in Nueva Andalucia: To be very close to many golf courses, and also within easy reach of restaurants, bars and nightlife, rent a property in Nueva Andalucia is a really good choice. Nueva Andalucia is known as golf valley, with Aloha, Las Brisas, Los Naranjos, La Quinta and Magna Marbella right on the doorstep. It is just up the hill from the bright lights of Puerto Banus, so you will have the best of both worlds and limited travel time to the fairways.
Stay in Benahavis: Another area with a lot of courses in a very small area is Benahavis, with 11 golf courses within the municipality. It’s also a gorgeous white village, famous for the many restaurants and charming atmosphere, so rent a property in Benahavis is a lovely option for dining and drinking after your round.
Contact us for recommendations on the best places to stay when you have the courses you’re considering and the group size and we’ll send you a list of options.
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At sunset in Marbella, the stunning sea, beautiful beaches and magnificent views take on a magical quality. This iconic stretch of the Costa del Sol is blessed with wonderful year-round weather, great light and on a clear evening, you can even see the Atlas Mountains in Africa. As the sun dips beneath the horizon, the sky appears painted with pinks, oranges and reds and this natural show will take your breath away. The very best sunsets take place in the winter months, from November to February, when the sky is clearest and you have the best chance of catching a glimpse of Africa. But they are stunning all year round.
Marbella sunsets are second to none and today we’ll give you the insiders’ guide to where to see the sunset in Marbella and enjoy this stunning sight to the full.
On the Beach
Marbella is blessed with 27.9km of beautiful beaches and they are a magnet for sun worshippers all year round. But they are not just a place for topping up your tan, they are also one of the best places to catch an iconic Marbella sunset.
We’d recommend heading down to El Faro Beach in central Marbella to catch the last of the sun in this sheltered cove. The water is shallow and calm and with the bars of Marbella Port behind you and the Mediterranean stretching out in front of you, you can see the lights of the seafront promenade and Puerto Banús start to twinkle, as the sun starts to dip. Then you’re in the perfect place to enjoy some of Marbella’s best bars and nightlife when the sun has gone down.
But that’s just one of the 24 fantastic beaches in Marbella. Some other beautiful blue flag beaches to watch the sunset in Marbella are El Ancón Beach on the Golden Mile, Guadalmina Beach, Nueva Andalucía Beach and if you’re happy to go a little further out from Marbella centre itself, Cabopino Beach and the beaches of Riviera are highly recommended.
Insiders’ Tip – We love to take a little picnic onto the beach to enjoy the sunset. Why not sip some delicious Spanish cava on a blanket, as the sun goes down and the stars come out?
Puerto Banús
Puerto Banús is Marbella’s most exclusive marina, home to superyachts, supercars and designer boutiques. It is also home to some fantastic bars and restaurants, just back from the water’s edge and these are great places to catch a Marbella sunset in style. There are some legendary spots, like Picasso Pizzeria and Sinatra Bar, which have hosted many famous faces over the years. All areas of the frontline Puerto Banús offer wonderful places to see the sunset in Marbella, overlooking some of the world’s most beautiful boats. But, for uninterrupted views, we’d recommend exploring the less well-known side of the port, by the Benabola development, where the tables are closer to the sea and the views are breathtaking at sunset.
Insiders’ Tip – Stroll around Puerto Banús at early evening to enjoy the buzz of the bars and restaurants and a little retail therapy. You can walk out to a viewing point right on the tip of the harbour, called Mirador del Muelle de Honor and have incredible views. This is Marbella sunsets as you’ve never seen it before!
Exclusive beach clubs and beach bars
We love going to a beach club for sundowners, especially on warm summer evenings. Getting dressed up and heading down for cocktails as the sun goes down is highly recommended. With cool music, beautiful people and a great atmosphere, they are the hottest places to people watch and be seen during the summer months. There are loads of wonderful options to choose from along the Costa del Sol. Some of the most popular are La Sala by the Sea, Mistral Beach Club, Ocean Club, Playa Padre and of course Nikki Beach. Taking a table at an exclusive beach club is an unforgettable setting for a Marbella sunset.
There are also hundreds of beach bars, along the long seafront promenade, which offer great places to see the sunset in Marbella. Grab a drink, or a bite to eat as the sun goes down and you won’t be disappointed.
Up on a Rooftop
Some of the very best views of sunsets in Marbella can be found from one of the many rooftop bars and restaurants. You can enjoy a few drinks, or a lovely meal, with a 360⁰ view. Several hotels in Marbella allow non-residents access to their rooftop terraces and bars. There are also some great bars, restaurants and nightclubs in Puerto Banús which offer rooftops to drink, dine and dance al fresco. For sunsets in Marbella, we’d recommend checking out the rooftop bars at Breathe in Nueva Andalucia, the Benabola Sky Lounge, the NH Hotel in San Pedro and the Virazón rooftop bar in Marbella Old Town.
From a sailboat
Last, but definitely not least, we’d recommend taking to the water at sunset to really feel part of one of the legendary Marbella sunsets. From the sea, you not only enjoy the view of the sun setting over the water, but also get an unbeatable view of the Costa del Sol coastline. As the sun sets and hits the iconic mountain of La Concha, it turns it the most spectacular shade of red.
There are a number of ways to do this, the most economical being taking a later Fly Blue Ferry from Banús to Marbella. This large catamaran offers a scenic 30-minute voyage, sailing every hour from 11.00 to 19.00 from March to November. Check out the time of the sunset for when you’re visiting and then time your trip to perfection and arrive in Marbella for dinner in an unforgettable fashion.
There are also many companies running sunset cruises on beautiful sailing yachts and motor boats. You can charter a boat from Puerto Banús and Marbella, for the whole day, or just a few hours at sunset. There are private hire options where you can include catering and entertainment for a private and luxurious experience, or you can join a group sailing to keep costs down.
Conclusion
Wherever you choose to enjoy a sunset in Marbella, we hope you’ll love the display. For us, it is one of the highlights of visiting the area. Vacation Marbella are here to help you find the best holiday rentals on the Costa del Sol and make your experience unforgettable. You can browse our selection of vacation rentals on our website and contact our helpful team for advice and practical support to make your holiday the very best it can be.
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[post_content] => The history of golf goes back to 1552, when the first golf course in the world opened in St Andrews, Scotland. Since then, it has grown into one of the world’s best loved sports, and thousands of courses have been created by talented golf course architects.
Marbella, and the Costa del Sol in general, is a golfers’ paradise. While we didn’t get our first course in Andalucia until the 1920s, there’s a reason why this is known as the Costa del Golf!
This area boasts more than 70 golf courses, designed and built between 1925 and the present day. We’ve been lucky to have some of the very best designers produce courses here, and our courses are consistently featured in the lists of top golf courses in Europe.
Probably the best known and one of the most prolific golf course architect to shape Marbella and the Costa del Sol’s golf scene is Robert Trent Jones Sr. He is behind nine fantastic courses on the Costa del Sol, including; Real Sotogrande, Real Las Brisas, Los Naranjos, Marbella Golf & Country Club and the most famous and highly esteemed – Valderrama.
Other talented designers that have created the incredible array of golf courses on the Costa del Sol include; Seve Ballesteros, José María Cañizares, Cabell Robinson, Javier Arana, Antonio García Garrido, Gary Player, Juan Ligués Creus, Dave Thomas, Juan Carlos Martínez, Mariano Benítez, Manuel Piñero and Enrique Canales Busquets.
History of golf culture on the Costa del Sol
Golf arrived in Spain way back in 1891, but the first course in Andalucia didn’t open until 1925, in Malaga. But once it started, there was no stopping the development of golf in Andalucia, and despite that slow start, it now has more golf clubs than any other autonomous communities in Spain – a whopping 92 in total.
The first golf course in Marbella itself is Guadalmina Golf Club, which opened its doors in 1959. This was designed by Javier Arana, widely held to be one of the best Spanish golf course designers of all time. He also designed Rio Real, which opened in 1965. German golf architect Bernard von Limburger designed Atalaya Golf, which opened in 1968 and Robert Trent Jones Las Brisas followed in 1969.
Once established as a golfing hotspot, the sport started to attract off-peak tourists, to help make Marbella a truly year-round destination and many more golf courses followed. There are now over 70 golf courses and it is known as much for its golf as for its beaches.
The Top 5 Golf Course Architects in Marbella
With so many notable names involved in designing and creating golf courses in Marbella, we have decided to pick our top 5. These are the people we feel have most impacted the golf scene in Marbella and who have designed some of our favorite courses.
Robert Trent Jones
We have to start with the legendary Robert Trent Jones, who cut his teeth building Real Sotogrande in 1964, his first course in Europe. This is still rated as the second-best golf course in Spain, by Top 100 Golf Courses, just behind his most revered design at Valderrama Golf Club.
In 1968, he designed Marbella’s third golf course – Las Brisas, in Nueva Andalucia. Jones is also responsible for Los Naranjos in the golf valley of Nueva Andalucia and Marbella Golf.
In total, he designed nine golf courses on the Costa del Sol, and is listed number 9 in the list of best golf course architects. He has certainly left his mark on the Costa del Golf!
Cabell B. Robinson
American golf course architect Cabell B. Robinson studied landscape architecture in California and worked with Robert Trent Jones in Spain from 1970. He was involved with many of his early projects before striking out on his own.
He is known as one of the most prolific golf course designers, alongside his mentor.
He lives on the Costa del Sol and has created some fantastic golf courses here, including La Cala Resort, La Reserva de Sotogrande, Santana Golf & Country Club, Valle Romano and Finca Cortesín.
Severiano Ballesteros
Seve Ballesteros was an incredible Spanish golfer, who became a very important golf course architect and left behind two wonderful golf courses in the Malaga province, with one located close to Marbella, in the golfing hotspot on Benahavis.
His design for Los Arqueros Golf includes 18 challenging holes, which blend into the beautiful countryside around it and offers some spectacular views. This course is not for the faint hearted, with narrow fairways and water obstacles a plenty.
Dave Thomas
Welsh golfer, turned golf course architect, Dave Thomas had significant success as a professional player, before an injury forced him to think about the next chapter in his career. He designed over 100 courses during his long career, including more than 20 in Europe.
On the Costa del Sol, he has created quite the legacy, designing the Almenara Golf Club, the La Hacienda Links Golf Resort and San Roque (Old Course) in the Sotogrande area. In Marbella, Dave Thomas designed and built the exceptional Marbella Club Golf Resort Course in 1999. This par 72 course is praised for its excellent fairways, and roughs and welcoming greens.
Antonio García Garrido
This Spanish architect really left his mark on Marbella having designed the Flamingos Golf Club, the first nine holes of Santa Maria Golf & Country Club and the Doña Julia Golf Club in the Casares area of the Western Costa del Sol.
We love golf here at Vacation Marbella and have created our list of top 10 Marbella golf courses to help you to have the best golf holiday. You can also book golf green fees on our website and contact us for golf recommendations and of course holiday rentals in the city.
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[post_content] => The new Netflix reality series, Making it in Marbella, is creating a buzz in the world of luxury real estate. Released to high anticipation, particularly in markets like Sweden, the series follows a group of high-profile agents from Homerun Brokers, a Swedish agency specialising in exclusive properties in Marbella. With a blend of drama, competition, and high-stakes real estate transactions, the show has sparked interest beyond Marbella, drawing an audience eager to get a glimpse into the glamorous yet challenging world of luxury real estate in this iconic Spanish destination. As Marbella's real estate market continues to thrive, the series taps into the public’s fascination with high-end properties, luxury lifestyles, and the professional rivalries that drive success in this elite sector.
Marbella as a European Luxury Real Estate Hub
Marbella has established itself as one of Europe’s key luxury destinations, especially in real estate. Known for its beaches, enviable climate, and exclusive nightlife, the city attracts a high-profile international clientele seeking a combination of natural beauty and premium services. Marbella stands out for its luxurious infrastructure, which includes renowned golf courses, exclusive marinas like Puerto Banús, and cutting-edge properties that compete on the global market.
Additionally, the boom in Marbella's real estate market has been driven by interest from buyers around the world, from Europe and the United States to the Middle East and Asia. This destination has managed to establish itself not only as a holiday spot but also as a solid investment in high-value properties that epitomise exclusivity in the European market. The demand for modern villas, sea-view penthouses, and properties offering a unique quality of life is steady and growing, reinforcing Marbella’s position as a benchmark for luxury and exclusivity on the continent.
What is the series about?
Making it in Marbella is a reality series that allows viewers to delve into the exciting and competitive luxury real estate market in Marbella. Released on Netflix on 1 October 2024, the series documents the lives of real estate agents from Homerun Brokers, a Swedish firm specialising in high-end properties on the Costa del Sol. The series takes us behind the scenes, showcasing the challenges and opportunities these agents face as they compete for the best properties while trying to attract Marbella's most exclusive clients.
Each of the six episodes explores the challenges of selling luxury properties in a highly competitive market, revealing the intense and glamorous aspects of this profession. Making it in Marbella highlights not only professional achievements but also the personal struggles of each agent, showing how they balance their work and personal lives in a high-pressure, competitive environment.
A Battle for Commissions and Professional Recognition
The central focus of the series is the intense competition among agents to secure the highest commissions and gain recognition within their team and the industry. Each luxury property represents a significant financial opportunity, sparking fierce competition as agents vie for top clients and substantial deals. The episodes show how these professionals face high-pressure situations, demanding negotiations, and clients who seek more than just a property – they want a unique, personalised experience.
Furthermore, Making it in Marbella highlights the relationships and tensions among agents, who are not only after commissions but also aim to build a reputation in an industry where credibility and recognition are key to attracting the best clients. This competitive dynamic provides insight into the high stakes of the sector, illustrating that success in Marbella’s luxury real estate market requires not only expertise but also a blend of determination, negotiation skills, and the ability to build strong client relationships.
What’s Real in Making it in Marbella?
Borja Rodríguez, with years of experience in Marbella's luxury real estate sector, offers some key points that help readers understand the reality of this industry beyond the drama of reality television.
Competitively intense: The series accurately portrays the fierce competition among agents to secure exclusive clients and properties, a very real element in Marbella's market, where limited inventory meets high demand for unique properties and experiences.
Glamorous lifestyle: Although Making it in Marbella emphasises the glamour of the industry, Borja points out that behind the glitz is constant effort and meticulous preparation for each transaction. Luxury is a part of Marbella’s appeal, but every real estate success requires professionalism, a deep understanding of the market, and trusted client relationships.
Dramatisation of conflicts: Like in many reality shows, some conflicts are exaggerated to increase viewer interest. Borja comments that while there are tensions and competition, professionalism and collaboration tend to prevail in Marbella’s real estate relationships, in an environment that values teamwork and mutual respect.
Through these observations, Borja Rodríguez offers a nuanced view of how the luxury real estate sector in Marbella is truly experienced, contrasting with the dramatic liberties of television.
How Borja Views the Present and Future of the Sector
After years of experience in Marbella’s luxury real estate market, Borja shares his perspective on the changes that are already underway and those expected in the near future. Below are some key points that help to understand the direction the sector is taking.
Increasing international demand: Marbella continues to attract high-profile international clients, especially from Europe and the Middle East. This demand ensures a steady flow of buyers who see Marbella as the ideal destination for a second home, supporting stable market growth.
Sustainability and technology as essential elements: Increasingly, luxury buyers seek properties that integrate sustainability and advanced technology. From energy-efficient solutions to smart home systems, the incorporation of these elements is becoming highly valued, and Borja sees this approach as crucial to Marbella’s future market.
Personalisation and exclusive experiences: Clients are not only looking for a luxury property; they want a unique, personalised experience. Marbella, with its exclusive lifestyle and ambience, offers the perfect setting for this. Vacation Marbella has worked to make each stay an unforgettable experience, adapting to individual client preferences.
Expansion of premium services: Marbella is already known for its high-end golf, marinas, and dining offerings, but the demand for even more exclusive services is growing. Borja observes that the trend is toward premium wellness, personalised activities, and luxury experiences – aspects that will set high-end properties apart in the region.
With this perspective, Borja emphasises that Marbella’s luxury real estate market is continuously evolving to meet the demands of an exacting and sophisticated clientele. At Vacation Marbella, the focus remains on innovating and adapting services to respond to these new demands, ensuring that Marbella continues to be a benchmark in European luxury.
[post_title] => Making it in Marbella: The Reality Show on Marbella's Luxury Real Estate Sector
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[post_content] => Marbella is situated in the heart of the Costa del Golf, close to over 70 fantastic golf courses. It’s a paradise for golfers, thanks to all those courses in a small area and the beautiful climate. But when should you come and play? In this article, we’ll let you know when is golf season in Marbella.
Golf season in Marbella
You can play golf all year round in Marbella. We’re blessed with more than 320 days of sunshine, so you’ll be unlucky to have a rainy day on the fairways. Even if you come and visit Marbella in the middle of summer, you can grab a round or two. But although it’s the peak season for tourists, it’s not the most popular time for golf, due to the high temperatures.
Low seasons
If you check the golf courses in Marbella and look at their green fees, you can see the high and low seasons marked. Low seasons are considered to be January and February, June, July and August and mid-November to the end of December.
January, February, November and December are the coolest months of the year in Marbella, with the most rain, which is why they are considered the low season. But, if you’re coming over from the UK or Northern Europe, you definitely won’t find it cold, or wet. The lowest average temperature at night is only 8⁰C, and the maximum days of rain is 5 per month – so not too much to worry about!
June, July and August are beautiful times to be in Marbella, but most visitors at this time of year are wanting to be at the beach, or in the pool, rather than getting sweaty on the golf course.
High Seasons
Definitely, the most popular times to play golf in Marbella are definitely spring and autumn.
Autumn is a great time to be in Marbella, especially if you want to play golf. As soon as the school summer holidays are over, and the cooler September weather arrives, people flock to the golf courses. September and October are the very best times, as there’s very little rain, bright sunshine and blue skies, but relatively cooler and more comfortable temperatures to get active.
These months are such a lovely time to visit Marbella, with plenty to do and see. Following the summer the prices of flights and accommodation drop too, so it’s a great time to consider.
Spring is also a popular golf season in Marbella, as the temperatures start to climb from March, the air is fresh and although you can get a few showers, you’d be unlucky to get sustained rain during your stay.
In March, you’ll get highs of 20⁰C and lows of 10⁰C and in April highs of 22⁰C and lows of 11⁰C and there are only four days of rain each month on average.
May starts to really warm up, so if you love warm weather and would like to combine golf days with time at beach clubs, or hitting the clubs, this is an excellent month to do both, before the heat really kicks in.
Benefits of playing during Marbella’s golf season
The golf season represents the absolute optimum time to play golf in Marbella and so you’ll get the best weather for a round.
As it’s a popular time, the atmosphere in the club house will be great and you can time it for a golf event or two.
You’re likely to meet like-minded people at the club and out and about after your rounds and it’s a very sociable and fun time to play.
Marbella’s golf season also coincides with the off-peak season when it comes to other tourism. This means that it is considerably cheaper to fly and to find accommodation during this time. The restaurants, bars and clubs are also more able to handle big groups, as it’s quiet, and if you’re traveling in a larger group, you’ll be very well looked after.
Downsides of playing golf during golf season
On the flip side, the golf season represents the busiest time on the fairways, so preferred tee times might be hard to come by. Also, if you are inexperienced golfers, and may take longer than average to get round the course, you might be getting pressure from groups behind and feel uncomfortable.
It is also significantly more expensive to play golf in Marbella in the high season and deals are limited. Whereas in the low season, it is better value for money.
Tips to prepare for the Marbella golf season
Hit the driving range – Get prepared for your golf holiday in Marbella back home, by practicing on the driving range and perfecting your shots, so you are at your best when you arrive.
Pre-select your courses – With so many courses to choose from it can be very hard to know where you want to play. You can check out our recommendations of the 10 best golf courses in Marbella as a great place to start. Then look at the green fees to decide which ones are in your budget. Finally, plan your trip and decide if you want to play every day, or have days where you go sightseeing, or relax and unwind, and choose your dates. When you’re ready, you can book Green Fees through Vacation Marbella for great deals and prices.
Book your flights and accommodation – Look for available flights into Malaga Airport and then into availability of accommodation in Marbella. We’d recommend searching for vacation rental properties near the best golf courses and look at larger properties that you can share with your golf group. This can work out cheaper per head than hotels, and offer a fantastic space to relax and hang out after a round. Alternatively, you might decide that you’d rather be at the heart of all the action, if going out on the town in the evenings is a high priority.
Think about transport – You’ll need to either hire cars to get you around, or look into transfers and private drivers in Marbella.
Get to know the courses – Check out the hole-by-hole guides, to familiarize yourself with the courses you’re due to play and get tips on how to have the best game. You can also check out the services to see if there are driving ranges or putting greens which you can use to make sure you’re fully prepared for the round. You can even decide to hire a golf instructor in Marbella, to help you improve your game, or to accompany you around the course.
Can you play golf in winter in Marbella?
Absolutely! Although winter is considered to be the low season for the golf courses, it’s also a great time to play golf in Marbella, as it rarely gets cold here or rains. In November, you’ll get highs of 20⁰C and lows of 11⁰C and in December highs of 18⁰C and lows of 9⁰C and there are only five days of rain each month on average.
As it's the low season, you can also benefit from some great deals and reduced green fees, alongside the cheapest accommodation, so it’s the best value time to take a golf holiday in Marbella.
Do golf courses close in Marbella in winter?
No, most golf courses are open all year round and you could even play on Christmas Day if you want to.
Many golf clubs also host special Christmas and New Year events too, so you can spend a special Christmas in Marbella with the family and play golf too. The perfect present!
Check out our guide on enjoying Marbella in the winter, for more tips on visiting Marbella at this time of year.
Where to stay for a golf holiday in Marbella?
There are so many golf courses in and around Marbella, that you can really take your pick of places to stay, but here are two areas with the highest density of courses and good access to post game activities.
Stay in Nueva Andalucia: To be very close to many golf courses, and also within easy reach of restaurants, bars and nightlife, rent a property in Nueva Andalucia is a really good choice. Nueva Andalucia is known as golf valley, with Aloha, Las Brisas, Los Naranjos, La Quinta and Magna Marbella right on the doorstep. It is just up the hill from the bright lights of Puerto Banus, so you will have the best of both worlds and limited travel time to the fairways.
Stay in Benahavis: Another area with a lot of courses in a very small area is Benahavis, with 11 golf courses within the municipality. It’s also a gorgeous white village, famous for the many restaurants and charming atmosphere, so rent a property in Benahavis is a lovely option for dining and drinking after your round.
Contact us for recommendations on the best places to stay when you have the courses you’re considering and the group size and we’ll send you a list of options.
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