Gecko Towers
We are told there are three fundamental rules in the hunt for great property which are really rather simple. They are, yes you knew it …. Location, Location, Location!
So why is the Marbella region such an awesome location?
In case you need additional justification as to why the Costa del Sol, and more specifically Marbella, is simply, such a wonderful location, here are a few pointers.
Of course, I acknowledged one size never fits all and there will be those few who simply find nothing to do, to see, to try, to experience or to taste in the Marbella region; mind you, given the breadth of the choices, they wont be many!
Let’s talk a little geography. The mountain sat behind Marbella – known locally as “La Concha” (the Shell) confers on the town a unique micro-climate that is quite possibly the Best in Europe. If you pass either side of the protection that La Concha offers the weather is prone to minor but appreciable changes.
You know the statistics but Marbella tends to enjoy over 300 days of sunshine annually. As a result the lifestyle is relaxed, varied and often simply perfect, some of the many reasons why the Marbella region is known as “the California of Europe”.
The coast is beautiful. The finer sand can be found on the beaches East of Marbella and West of El Presidente, but the area boast wide and luscious beaches to tempt even the most timid sun worshipper.
A tip, do like the Marbelleros (locals of Marbella), enjoy the beach and sea from early morning and, again, in the late afternoon to avoid the summer’s very hot midday sun. The beaches are fringed by palm, eucalyptus and umbrella pine trees and the occasional beachside “chiringuito”. Lovely local restaurants serving freshly caught fish – or more sophisticated beach clubs offering day beds, waiter service and at some, boisterous pool parties.
Marbella’s climate offers the most attractive year round conditions to enjoy yourself. There are changes between notional seasons. From November to February it may be cooler even cold on some days when a light dusting of snow may noticed on the “Sierra de la Nieves” (Snow Mountains) high behind San Pedro de Alcantara – West of Marbella – in the direction of Ronda. Infrequently, La Concha may also get a fall that is often burnt off by warming daily temperatures.
The Spring is one of the loveliest seasons with flowering almond, cherry trees and deep blue jacarandas in June that welcome the return of many visitors keen to pursue their favourite sports whilst their homes in Edinburgh, Stockholm, Stuttgart or Warsaw are still shaking off the chill of the Winter. July and August are prime Summer months often sizzlingly hot. Following the familiar stride of the Summer, September and October bring a welcome return to comfortable daytime temperatures with a growing menu of outdoor activities and tempting distractions.
If you are retiree – regardless of your age – or just want to put a little relaxation into your busy schedule, you may be drawn to the joys of Golf. There are many of the best courses in Europe both in and around the Marbella region and about thirty minutes drive East or West. You don’t always need to be a member, or hold a handicap and the green fees will not bust the budget for the starter who has had a few lessons and wants to polish up their inner Rory McIIroy.
If you have followed Rafa’s clay court career or Roger on grass, tennis clubs, including the local variant of padel tennis (a joy to even non-tennis players) – abound. Again, its rare you need to be a member but discounted courts are often available for those who are regulars.
Horse riding – see below an image of some brave souls taking their mounts for a sea swim – pretty much any horse activity jumping, dressage, polo – which is a great afternoon out even if you don’t play – or cross country is positively encouraged in the Marbella region. Oddly, Fuengirola’s claim to fame is having the highest horse ownership per capita in Spain.
Sailing, whether its a Mirror or Lazer dinghy, kite or wind surfer, a Hobie catamaran or an ocean going schooner the waters off Marbella make a compelling pitch for a life on the waves. This year there are several formal regattas for the committed skipper.
Boats one of the most reliable sayings often repeated on the Costa del Sol, is “the best boat to have is a friend’s boat”. They tend to be expensive to acquire and equally pricy to maintain with mooring fees and repairs. However, I defy anyone not to enjoy an afternoon in the open air and on the sea. Whether it’s a jet ski, a rib inflatable or super yacht.
A recent observation put to me by a long term Costa del Sol resident, who settled with his wife nearly ten years ago having sold a business in the UK and purchased their “white washed hacienda” complete with inviting 8m x 10m glistening swimming pool in Nueva Andalucia: “We now have grandkids and given the choice of another trip to “The House of the Mouse” in Florida or a couple of weeks splashing around in Grandma’s back garden, I can tell you where they prefer!” For holidays or long weekends there is every reason for the family to visit.
For relocating families, aside from the very high quality property offer and an interestingly interesting comparative tax regime, Marbella is proud to be the home of several highly regarded and internationally successful private schools. When combined with the outdoor lifestyle, the certain knowledge that you are providing the best for the next generation, offers you and your family a fresh take on living well.
You wont be living for your next holiday as you’ll already be there!
For foodies, weekenders and those who seek a refuge away from their busy lives in Northern Europe and elsewhere, the range of spectacular cuisine, including many specialist vegetarian and vegan options, from rustic Spanish, through to Japanese, Scandinavian, South American and Thai, to the heights of mega-Michelin stars will leave no one hungry.
In recent years the culinary offer that Marbella boasts has grown exponentially.
Nothing beats a country walk into the mountains followed by a beautiful and nutritious lunch. A dinner in front of a crackling open fire with fine Spanish wines is the perfect antidote to the stress of life elsewhere. For those keen to party Marbella has some excellent bars and clubs where it is entirely usual to leave as dawn breaks.
For all, the public and private health care systems feature State of the Art hospitals that are very highly regarded and on a par with that offered in any European capital or major regional city. Those seeking a more mindful existence will be well catered for in the growing retreat, mindfulness and spa culture offered to those who prefer to enjoy a more tranquil Marbella.
Thanks in part to Spain’s commitment to the European Union, the state has benefitted substantially from infrastructure. Its road systems including “peajes” (toll roads) make getting reasonably long distances quickly a complete pleasure. Where else can you drive your favourite vehicle on the open road whilst being treated to amazing views and spectacular weather?
Malaga Airport (also called “Costa del Sol” airport), from where a variety of operators announce annually the increase in routes and frequency of their services to all over, is around 45 minutes away from Marbella. Equally, Gibraltar International Airport, with its evolving array of connections, is just 45 minutes to the West.
Malaga should not be overlooked. It is no longer just the location of the airport where visitor turn right or left onto the N340 to their preferred holiday destinations. Increasingly referred to as the Barcelona of the south, the city is now a cultural hub with museums and art galleries, it has a “Casco Antiguo” (Old City) that is Roman in origins. It is replete with historical building in various states of refurbishment and offers some of the most interesting new property developments to those seeking the lifestyle of the Costa del Sol but keen to enjoy the vibe of city living.
In recent years the draw for entrepreneurs to the Marbella/Malaga region has been the proximity to key Tech Hub that has grown out of the University’s established TechPark. This, combined with the exciting new tech hub of the Pool in Marbella – the homes to various entrepreneurs responsible for founding several Unicorns. A synergistic approach to entrepreneurship combined with arguably the best infrastructure and lifestyle in Europe makes it a no brainer to choose this region for your family’s and your business’ future. Costa del Sol – The DigiTech Revolution
Marbella’s ancient history is a key to its enduring attraction. Whether in Marbella itself or in the surrounding areas where Roman remains and artifacts are on display, bearing testimony to the origins of the Coast. You will clearly see that Marbella has been around for far longer than most expect. It’s history goes back way beyond the mid 1950’s when the Marbella Club was opened and attracted a new breed of tourists to the shores of the Mediterranean.
The pageantry of the Easter processions should not be missed. The wealth of history, architectural and cultural discoveries in Cadiz, Cordoba, Granada, Malaga, Seville and Ronda, are beyond comparison.
Marbella, particularly, for several summer months becomes the home to an ever evolving live music scene. With the Starlight Festival attracting Spanish and international talent. The dominance of the Starlight Festival will be challenged by the recent arrival of the renovated Marbella Arena a 5000 seater venue placed within the former Puerto Banus bull ring. Operated by a dynamic international company with years of live promotion experience and surrounded by a number of restaurants of various cuisine, the Marbella Arena is fast becoming a focal point for live entertainment.
Marbella is literally down the road from the music, literary and sporting festivals and many other cultural pursuits of Gibraltar, not forgetting the tax free shopping. Gib’s neighbour, Sotogrande, around thirty minutes from Marbella, offers some of the finalist sporting fixtures on the international Polo circuit at the “Santa Maria Polo Club”. Whilst petrol heads can enjoy both the motorbike racing in Jerez and thrilling driving experiences at the many karting tracks and the Ascari Racetrack.
For the beachcomber, aside from Marbella’s own beachs, the splendid Costa del La Luz, with its hippy vibe and ancient towns of Tarifa, Zahara de Los Atunes and Conil feature simply beautiful beaches and wind sports culture. Just a few kilometers further on from Gibaltar, they are well worth a visit and the rewards will be many including on a clear day, a fine view of the almost touchable North African coast.
When the winter calls the Sierra Nevada above Granada, just under two hours from Marbella, is the place to enjoy some great skiing and chilled nightlife.
For the shopper, who prefers to stays locally, Marbella boasts some excellent shopping in the historic city centre, in Puerto Banus and in the mall complex called “La Canada” housing many favourite international brands. Next to Plaza Mayor, near Malaga’s Airport, there’s a MacArthur Glen Designer Outlet Mall which rivals the likes of Bicester Village, west of London.
I could go on and on…..Marbella really ticks most boxes as those who know and love the area will confirm. If you haven’t yet been to Marbella but are tempted, come and see for yourself, you are guaranteed of a very warm welcome.
Should you be interested in discussing the process involved in buying a property in the Marbella region, we would be delighted to assist you. As and when you are ready to progress with your search please contact me to discuss your precise requirements.
We are not estate agents, but we work with some hard-working and reputable ones.
We have a multi-disciplinary team of bi-lingual, highly experienced and wholly independent Abogados (Spanish Lawyers) and Asesores Fiscales (Tax Accountants) ready to help you.
Please note that our posts are for general interest. There is no substitute for proper advice tailored to your specific circumstances as provided by a qualified Abogado who is experienced in the application of the Spanish Law. Nothing contained in this article should be seen or taken as the writer or the publisher providing legal, tax or financial advice. All details have been reasonably fact-checked and all efforts have been taken to ensure that facts are accurate as at the date of publication.
My details: Mark FR Wilkins, during usual business hours on +34 600 343 917 or e-mail me at mark@biznagapartners.com
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