The DNA: The legendary Marbella Club started life as a rural family finca owned by Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe. In 1954 it was turned into a hotel and has since been the favourite Costa del Sol hideaway to an array of illustrious guests. It is located on Marbella’s famed Golden Mile between the picturesque old town and glittering Puerto Banus. The complex retains its Andalucia-meets-Hollywood-motel aesthetic, with whitewashed bungalows running down a driveway to the Mediterranean. Each area has its own distinct style, ranging from breezy coastal chic to decadent drinking den to grand country house. Schumacher print wallpaper, bougainvillea-clad terraces, hand-painted tiles and elaborately carved fireplaces add bags of Spanish vibrancy. There’s an abundance of facilities: from 8 restaurants and bars, a spa, kid’s club, beach club to its own golf course.

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 132 rooms, suites & villas (45-6,000m2) (484-64,583 sq ft) • hotel opened: 1954 • bathroom amenities: Votary ✅ free on-site parking • no pets allowed • 24-hour front desk