A chic, sophisticated beach-front hotel that encourages rest and relaxation, El Fuerte is proving that Marbella is so much more than tacky beach clubs
Location
A 40-minute drive from Malaga airport will transport you to a luxurious bolthole in one of the most prime seafront spots in Marbella. El Fuerte – a former fortress made into a hotel in the 1950s – offers direct access to the beach and is a five-minute walk from Marbella’s charming Old Town, which is a hotspot for restaurants, bars and boutique shops.
The vibe
Historical charm (what remains of the Fuerte de San Luis, a 16th-century fortress stands in pride of place in the courtyard) meets modern Mediterranean design in the recently renovated El Fuerte. As a nod to its Andalusian heritage, earthy tones take centre stage: think shades of terracotta, dark green marble, raffia and wood throughout the communal areas and bedrooms.
Those visiting the Costa del Sol for banging beach clubs and big nights out should look away; El Fuerte oozes sophistication and is a haven for rest and relaxation.
Service
The check-in process is smooth, and staff are friendly and always on hand if you need assistance. Service does slip when dining though – orders can be slow to be taken and errors often made. It can also take some time before drinks arrive at the table, even when the restaurants are quiet.
Bed and bath
There are 266 rooms and suites, 78 of which are for ‘selected guests’, a higher category room where guests receive exclusive access to different areas of the hotel and amenities. This includes complimentary daily access to the spa, a VIP area at breakfast and a private lounge where food and drink are served from 11am and 9pm, featuring a selection of sandwiches, salads and pickles, as well fruit juice, soft fizzy drinks, wine and spirits.
Much like the rest of the hotel, the bedrooms strike the perfect balance between relaxing and stylish. The deep mustard-coloured walls in one room are contrast with a leather, terracotta headboard, while the crisp white linen makes the large bed even more inviting. The bathroom is equally luxurious and adorned with dark green marble sinks and cornices, a walk-in shower and a smart toilet (heated seat and all). Dim lighting…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at The Independent Travel…