Rais Rafikov | · 29 min. read
The Marbella Golden Mile is renowned as the crown jewel of Marbella and often the first thought associated with the city. Originating in the 1950s, this famed stretch has evolved into a symbol of supreme luxury and exclusivity. Through this comprehensive area guide, you will gain a thorough understanding of everything this glamorous community has to offer.
The Marbella Golden Mile is a long promenade that stretches approximately 3.1 miles (about 5 km) along the coast of Marbella, from Puerto Banus to the Piruli. The Piruli, resembling a lighthouse, serves as a striking landmark symbolizing the entrance to Marbella and reflects the aesthetic introduced by former president Jesus Gil.
Renowned for its prestige, the Marbella Golden Mile is coveted for its beachfront proximity, making real estate here exceptionally desirable. This area hosts some of Marbella’s finest 5-star accommodations, including the Marbella Club Hotel and the Puente Romano Resort, alongside numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and upscale amenities. The very name of the promenade underscores its exclusivity, with many established businesses operating along its length.
It’s crucial to note that the Marbella Golden Mile is not officially classified as a district, unlike Nueva Andalucia or Marbella itself; it is merely a designation for this specific coastal strip and its adjacent areas. Interestingly, local perceptions vary regarding what exactly constitutes the Marbella Golden Mile. For example, some locals might include Sierra Blanca as part of it, despite its distance from the coastal strip. Sub-areas within the Golden Mile include Nagueles, Puente Romano, Lomas de Marbella Club, La Carolina, El Vicario, Monte Paraiso, and El Capricho.
The Marbella Golden Mile, stretching approximately 3.1 miles (5 kilometers) along the coast from Puerto Banus to the Piruli—a striking landmark resembling a lighthouse—serves as a grand gateway to Marbella. This emblem, reminiscent of the architectural vision of former president Jesus Gil, marks a scenic and historic entry to the region.
Renowned for its exclusivity, the Marbella Golden Mile is a coveted locale, favored for its immediate beach access. This area boasts some of Marbella’s finest 5-star accommodations, including the iconic Marbella Club Hotel and the Puente Romano Resort, alongside an array of Michelin-star dining options and premium amenities. The very name of the Marbella Golden Mile conveys its high status, hosting some of the area’s most established businesses.
It’s crucial to note that unlike Nueva Andalucia or Marbella, which are recognized districts, the Marbella Golden Mile is a term used to describe a particularly prestigious stretch of coastline and its nearby regions. The exact boundaries of the Marbella Golden Mile can vary based on local perception. For instance, some locals might include Sierra Blanca as part of the Golden Mile, even though it is geographically distant from the coastal strip. This guide considers additional sub-areas such as Nagueles, Puente Romano, Lomas de Marbella Club, La Carolina, El Vicario, Monte Paraiso, and El Capricho as integral parts of the Marbella Golden Mile.
Area Guide Division for the Marbella Golden Mile:
For those interested in deeper insights into specific sub-areas such as Sierra Blanca, we encourage you to visit our website where comprehensive area guides are readily available.
The Marbella Golden Mile’s journey to becoming a symbol of modern prestige and privilege began in 1954 when Prince Alfonso de Hohenlohe started constructing the iconic Marbella Club Hotel, which officially opened in 1976. This establishment quickly became the pinnacle of Marbella’s elite scene, attracting numerous celebrities and royalty for their vacations. Over 65 years later, the prestige endures, with some of the world’s wealthiest and most famous individuals, such as Antonio Banderas, Jason Statham, Sylvester Stallone, and Michelle Obama, owning homes here.
However, the Golden Mile’s allure dates back even further. The oldest archaeological evidence in the area comes from the remains of a Roman villa found near the mouth of the Río Verde, the point which separates the Golden Mile and Puerto Banús. Built almost 2000 years ago as part of the Roman fishing town of Silniana (or Cilniana), all that remains of the villa are its floors and some walls. The beautifully preserved hand-inlaid mosaic tiles suggest that wealthy Romans enjoyed a level of luxury and comfort akin to the classic villas built here in recent times.
Another significant Roman remnant is the charming Roman Bridge, around which the Puente Romano Resort Hotel was built in 1979. This historic bridge continues to form the focal point of a beautiful subtropical garden complex that starts at the hotel’s atmospheric Plaza Village and extends to its Sea Grill and Del Mar beachside venues.
The Golden Mile’s modern destiny as an international luxury resort destination was shaped in the mid-20th century. Near the El Rodeo estate, Ricardo Soriano, Marquis of Ivanrey, acquired land that would become the site of the Marbella Club Hotel built by Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe in 1954. This hotel soon became a playground for the world’s rich and famous, solidifying Marbella’s reputation. By the 1970s, this reputation also drew large numbers of permanent and seasonal foreign residents, further enhancing the area’s international appeal.
The Marbella Golden Mile remains a coveted location for its luxurious lifestyle, historical significance, and the continued allure of its beautiful surroundings.
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Area A of the Marbella Golden Mile, spanning from the Beach to the N-340, covers an extensive coastal region of 1.51 square kilometers – 0.58 square miles or 372.3 acres. It is recognized as the eastern part of the Golden Mile, hosting some of the most exclusive amenities and luxury properties. This area features the renowned Marbella Club Hotel and Puente Romano Resort, along with numerous options for dining and entertainment.
Area B of the Marbella Golden Mile extends from the N-340 to the AP-7, encompassing an approximate area of 4.33 square kilometers – 1.67 square miles or 1070.7 acres and a perimeter of 10.82 kilometers – 6.72 miles.
Area C of the Marbella Golden Mile stretches beyond the AP-7 into the mountains. This area includes Sierra Blanca and Nagueles, among others, and encompasses an approximate area of 5.63 square kilometers – 2.17 square miles or 1391.83 acres with a perimeter of 10.27 kilometers – 6.38 miles.
Area A:
Being beachside, this area holds many villas with direct beach access and several luxury apartment complexes that include direct entry to the promenade and the beach. The homes found along the promenade typically follow a traditional Mediterranean style, characterized by clean lines, curved archways, and warm color palettes.
Recently, more modern villas have been constructed, adding a contemporary flair to the area. However, due to the limited availability of plots for sale, new construction has become somewhat restricted. As a result, there has been a growing trend among architects and homeowners to redevelop older traditional villas into more contemporary styles. These updated properties often feature sleek, modern designs while retaining the charm of the Mediterranean aesthetic.
Properties in Area A of the Golden Mile are highly coveted for their prime beachfront locations and exceptional views. Many of these homes offer stunning, sometimes unobstructed, vistas of the sea. The combination of traditional and modern architecture, along with the exclusive beach access and vibrant coastal lifestyle, makes Area A a sought-after destination for luxury living in Marbella’s Golden Mile.
Area B:
This area features a mix of apartment complexes and townhouses, predominantly designed in a Mediterranean style.
Villas are also widely available in Area B, offering ample garden space that attracts many residents looking for a more spacious and private living environment. The villas here often feature lush, green landscapes and beautifully landscaped gardens, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.
In addition to traditional Mediterranean architecture, Area B boasts numerous contemporary apartment complexes, many of which are quite recent. These modern buildings contribute to a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance in the area. The blend of traditional and contemporary styles provides a diverse architectural landscape, appealing to a wide range of preferences.
Area B benefits from its strategic location, offering both sea and mountain views depending on where you are situated. The region’s elevated position allows for impressive vistas, enhancing the overall appeal of the properties. The urbanizations often include communal amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and fitness centers, ensuring a high-quality lifestyle for residents. This area also offers a selection of prestigious international schools, making it an attractive choice for families.
With its harmonious blend of nature and luxury, Area B of the Golden Mile provides a perfect balance between tranquility and convenience, making it a highly desirable location within the Marbella Golden Mile.
Area C:
This area includes elite neighborhoods such as Sierra Blanca and Nagueles, among others.
Villas in Area C are particularly notable for their expansive gardens with private pools, offering a high degree of privacy and luxury. These properties are set on large plots, providing ample space between homes. The architectural style varies based on the homeowner’s preference, although the traditional Mediterranean style remains prevalent. This style is characterized by its clean lines, curved archways, and warm color palettes, creating a timeless and inviting aesthetic.
In recent years, modern villas and penthouses have gained popularity, contributing to the area’s sophisticated and contemporary appeal. These newer properties often feature sleek, innovative designs and luxurious finishes, enhancing the overall allure of Area C.
The elevated position of Area C provides residents with stunning panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding mountains, making it an ideal location for those seeking a tranquil and scenic environment. The area is predominantly residential, with fewer immediate amenities, but everything is easily accessible with a short drive. This ensures a peaceful living experience while still being close to Marbella’s attractions and conveniences.
The Marbella Golden Mile offers a wide range of living options, catering to various budgets and creating a diverse price spectrum that drives high demand. However, it’s important to note that properties in this area are generally on the higher end of Marbella’s market price range. Prices vary significantly depending on the specific location within the Golden Mile. Currently, the price range spans from €500,000 to €55,000,000 ($550,000 to $59,750,000).
Area A, occupying the prestigious front-line properties and those close to the N-340 and Ricardo Soriano, typically sees property prices between €2,000,000 and €10,000,000 ($2,200,000 to $11,000,000) for apartments. Larger properties in this area generally fall within the €4,000,000 to €10,000,000 ($4,400,000 to $11,000,000) range. However, areas like Puente Romano can see prices for frontline properties exceed €10,000,000 ($11,000,000). Prices vary based on proximity to the beach and the quality of sea views, with closer and better views commanding higher prices.
One of the most expensive homes for sale on the Marbella Golden Mile, and in Spain, was listed for €85,000,000 ($92,000,000). Casa Loriana is a magnificent mansion on the beachfront, located minutes away from Marbella Beach Club and Trocadero Beach. It features a stunning tropical garden with fountains, sea views, and two swimming pools. On the lower end of the scale, townhouses, apartments, penthouses, and smaller plots range from €500,000 to €5,000,000 ($550,000 to $5,500,000). Higher prices are attached to villas, duplex penthouses, large plots, and mansions.
Area B, known for its larger plot sizes and quieter atmosphere, typically features property prices between €2,000,000 and €6,000,000 ($2,200,000 to $6,600,000) depending on the plot and property size. Many smaller townhouses and apartments are available for under €1,000,000 ($1,100,000). However, some properties in this area can reach higher price tags, such as a current listing for €30,000,000 ($32,600,000), showcasing the area’s distinguished status and variety.
Area C, home to the largest plots and grandest houses on the Golden Mile, is known for its exclusivity. Property prices here generally range from €2,000,000 to €30,000,000 ($2,200,000 to $33,000,000). However, typically properties, including apartments, range from €2,000,000 to €10,000,000 ($2,200,000 to $11,000,000). This area includes prestigious urbanizations such as Sierra Blanca, Nagüeles, and Cascada de Camojan, where properties have been sold for over €20,000,000 ($22,000,000). Although there are currently no properties listed over €30,000,000 ($33,000,000), past listings have reached €40,000,000 ($44,000,000) and above.
Area A:
Area B:
Area C:
This wide range in pricing reflects the variety and exclusivity of properties available along the Marbella Golden Mile, catering to different preferences and budgets while maintaining a high level of luxury and sophistication.
The Marbella Golden Mile’s proximity to everything makes it an extremely popular choice for homebuyers. Living in the heart of Marbella’s action and beauty attracts a diverse range of people. The fact that this community is closest to the beach significantly enhances its appeal.
Moreover, the Marbella Golden Mile is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, catering to both walkers and cyclists, while also providing well-maintained roads for cars. This balance ensures easy movement and excellent connectivity, which is crucial when considering a house purchase. Major roads like the A-7, N-340, and AP-7 are easily and conveniently accessible from this area.
The Marbella Golden Mile is renowned for being the most luxurious part of Marbella, making it a highly desirable location for property buyers. It’s also a very family-oriented area, with many families choosing to have homes here due to its safe and welcoming environment.
Popular Activities and Lifestyle on the Marbella Golden Mile, means having access to plenty of activities and amenities. The area is home to upscale shopping centers, chic boutiques, and gourmet restaurants offering a variety of international cuisines. The presence of world-class golf courses, tennis clubs, and beachfront leisure activities ensures there’s never a dull moment.
The Marbella Golden Mile is the heart of the action, brimming with amenities and entertainment to delight people of all ages. This vibrant area offers a wide variety of fine dining options, featuring cuisines from Thai and Japanese to Mediterranean and Italian. The Golden Mile is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy dining spots known worldwide, like Nobu. For a more laid-back dining experience, many cozy chiringuitos line the promenade, perfect for enjoying a meal or snack with a refreshing sea breeze. Some of Marbella’s most exclusive nightclubs, including La Suite, Momento, Olivia Valere, and Mamzel, are also located here, allowing you to dance the night away. Most of these amenities are concentrated around the coastal road, categorized as Area A.
The Marbella Golden Mile is an ideal location for a wide range of activities, particularly in Area A, which is close to the beach. Here, you can enjoy various water sports such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing. For those who prefer land-based activities, the Puente Romano resort offers an excellent tennis club with eight clay courts, two plexipave courts, and a gym. The Puente Romano complex is also home to the prestigious Six Senses Spa, where you can indulge in treatments that will leave you feeling pampered and rejuvenated, whether you’re looking for relaxation or active physical exercise.
In addition to the nearby golf courses of Nueva Andalucía and the marinas of Puerto Banús and Marbella, the area offers beach workouts and yoga sessions. The coastal Paseo Marítimo, which connects the shoreline of Marbella and Puerto Banús via the Golden Mile, is popular for jogging, walking, cycling, and even roller-skating. With all the shopping and nightlife of Puerto Banús, and the lively café culture of Marbella just a few minutes away, the Golden Mile remains a very private haven of exclusivity. Here, you will find a millionaire’s row of beachfront villas and apartments, as well as upscale residential areas on the mountainside, such as La Virginia and Las Lomas de Marbella Club.
Retail enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Area A, where many international designer brands have established shops. Luxury retail stores, including names like Chanel, offer high-end shopping experiences, while small boutiques and art galleries along the coastal road cater to diverse tastes.
Areas B and C are especially popular for biking and jogging, offering natural parks and reserves where you can freely explore and enjoy beautiful scenery. These areas provide a stunning visual backdrop as you exercise, adding to the appeal of the Golden Mile.
In addition to its two famous hotels, the Marbella Golden Mile features the iconic Gran Meliá Hotel Don Pepe, designed by Eleuterio Población in 1963, and the less famous but equally pleasant Alanda Hotel Marbella and Hotel Iberostar Marbella Coral Beach. The Golden Mile is synonymous with exclusivity and privilege, hosting elegant art galleries, Brioni fashion, top furniture brands (including an El Corte Inglés décor outlet), interior design and architecture studios, and many of the top restaurants, cafes, and beach clubs in Marbella.
Villa Tiberio, Les Cubes, El Carnicero, Sushi des Artistes, Tai Pan, and the Marbella Club Grill are top restaurants offering a variety of international cuisines. The fine dining epicenter of Marbella is fast becoming the Puente Romano’s Plaza Village – home to Michelin-starred Dani García and Bibo restaurants, Serafina, Thai Gallery, and Uni. Famous chefs Dani García and Nobu Matsuhisa are opening new establishments on the Golden Mile. The new Nobu restaurant at the Plaza Village will also be accompanied by a Nobu suites hotel within the Puente Romano.
Exclusive cafés such as Organic and Cappuccino Marbella provide delightful experiences, with the latter located right on the beach. Trocadero Playa, Del Mar, the Sea Grill, and Besaya Beach are among the most exclusive beach club venues in the region. The traditional yet popular Victors Beach chiringuito beach bar offers a prime beachside location. Nightlife in the area is centered around glamorous venues like Suite at the Puente Romano, Buddha Bar, and the iconic Olivia Valere.
Kids can experience an exciting and active life on the Marbella Golden Mile. Whether they prefer swimming at the beach or splashing around in a pool, the Marbella Golden Mile offers it all. A wide range of activities is easily accessible, even by foot. Children can enjoy watersports, playgrounds, and a variety of cafes, among other options. Parents can feel confident knowing their kids are safely exploring the area, thanks to the robust security measures in place throughout all urbanizations on the Marbella Golden Mile.
The Marbella Golden Mile is a haven for family-friendly activities. Children can take part in various watersports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. The numerous playgrounds along the promenade provide safe and fun environments for younger children to play and socialize. Additionally, family-oriented cafes and restaurants offer kid-friendly menus and welcoming atmospheres, making dining out a pleasant experience for the whole family.
The Marbella Golden Mile boasts excellent educational facilities catering to a diverse range of needs. Within this prestigious area, families have access to high-quality private schools, international schools, and higher education institutions, making it an ideal place for raising children.
There are two notable private schools on the Marbella Golden Mile, both offering a British education and located in Area C:
Several other international schools are conveniently located near the Marbella Golden Mile, providing education from early childhood through to the end of secondary school:
For higher education, the Marbella Golden Mile and its vicinity offer several prestigious institutions:
The Marbella Golden Mile also hosts Spanish public schools, with IES Guadalpin being the most renowned. IES Guadalpin offers primary and secondary education, as well as the Baccalaureate and specialized courses in production and business, all conducted in Spanish.
The Marbella Golden Mile offers an outstanding range of educational opportunities for families, from early childhood through to higher education. Its blend of private, international, and public schools ensures that every child can find a suitable and enriching learning environment.
For more detailed information about Education in Marbella, visit our website and read our comprehensive article on this topic. Discover the unparalleled educational landscape that awaits your family on the Marbella Golden Mile.
The safety of residents is a top priority on the Marbella Golden Mile. The area is well-secured, with gated communities and constant surveillance, allowing parents to feel at ease while their children explore and enjoy the surroundings.
The Marbella Golden Mile ensures unrestricted movement as it is a crucial road for navigating Marbella. Despite its importance, the area maintains a high level of security, especially within residential zones. These areas are often protected by barriers both day and night, with security hubs monitoring movement. Speed limits are strictly enforced, with several speed cameras in place. The speed limit, previously set at 80 km/h (50 mph), has recently been reduced to 50 km/h (31 mph) to decrease traffic incidents.
Given its proximity to Marbella Centre, the Marbella Golden Mile benefits from a robust police presence. Numerous police stations in the area ensure quick and efficient assistance in emergencies. Local police also routinely patrol the Golden Mile, adding an extra layer of security.
The Marbella Golden Mile is designed with pedestrians in mind, allowing residents and visitors to safely walk, run, or cycle along its streets. This pedestrian-friendly approach encourages an active lifestyle while maintaining safety.
Many gated communities on the Marbella Golden Mile have their own on-site security and patrol guards. These communities offer a secure living environment with controlled access. Additionally, villas on the promenade feature gates and individualized entries to protect the homes, ensuring privacy and safety for residents.
The close proximity to Marbella Centre also means that medical facilities and emergency services are easily accessible. This ensures that residents of the Marbella Golden Mile can quickly receive medical attention if needed.
The Marbella Golden Mile combines unrestricted movement with high security, creating a safe and comfortable living environment. Whether you’re walking, cycling, or driving, the area is designed to provide peace of mind for all its residents.
For more detailed information about Marbella’s security and safety measures or medical care, visit our blog. Discover the unparalleled lifestyle that awaits you on the Marbella Golden Mile with The Agency Marbella.
The Marbella Golden Mile has attracted many of the world’s rich and famous, enamored by its luxurious lifestyle. This prestigious area is also very family-friendly, with many choosing to raise their children here. It remains an international community, merging residents of various cultural backgrounds. Here are some notable residents and their contributions to the charm of the Marbella Golden Mile:
The Marbella Golden Mile is a melting pot of cultures, with residents from all over the world contributing to its unique and vibrant atmosphere. This blend of nationalities fosters a cosmopolitan environment, making it an appealing location for people from various backgrounds to live and thrive.
As of the conclusion for this guide, here are the key factors of the “why” homeowners love the Golden Mile are of Marbella:
1. Prime Location and Proximity to Attractions The Marbella Golden Mile’s strategic location is one of its main draws. Nestled between Marbella and Puerto Banús, it offers residents easy access to some of the region’s most prestigious attractions. The proximity to the beach, upscale shopping centers, world-class golf courses, and vibrant nightlife makes it a convenient and attractive place to live. Major roads like the A-7, N-340, and AP-7 are easily accessible, ensuring excellent connectivity to surrounding areas.
2. Luxury and Exclusivity The Golden Mile is synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. It features a stunning array of high-end properties, including beachfront villas, elegant apartments, and sprawling estates. This area has a reputation for being the most luxurious part of Marbella, drawing the wealthy and famous. Frontline beach properties and gated communities offer unparalleled privacy and security, making it a haven for those seeking an exclusive lifestyle.
3. Pedestrian-Friendly and Active Lifestyle The area is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, encouraging an active lifestyle. Residents can enjoy walking, jogging, cycling, and even roller-skating along the coastal Paseo Marítimo, which connects Marbella and Puerto Banús. Beach exercise and yoga are popular activities, further enhancing the appeal for those who value health and wellness.
4. Rich Cultural and Social Scene The Marbella Golden Mile is brimming with cultural and social amenities. It boasts a wide variety of fine dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy chiringuitos along the beach. Trendy dining spots like Nobu and the gastronomic offerings at Puente Romano’s Plaza Village attract food enthusiasts from around the world. The area also hosts exclusive nightclubs and lively cafes, ensuring there’s always something exciting to do.
5. Top-Notch Amenities and Services Residents of the Golden Mile benefit from top-notch amenities and services. The Puente Romano complex offers a prestigious tennis club and the luxurious Six Senses Spa, providing both relaxing and active physical exercise options. The presence of world-class hotels like the Marbella Club Hotel and the Gran Meliá Hotel Don Pepe further enhances the area’s appeal.
6. Safety and Family-Friendly Environment The Marbella Golden Mile is known for its safe and family-friendly environment. Many families choose to live here due to the excellent security measures in place, including gated communities and 24-hour surveillance. The area is also home to several top-tier private schools and international educational institutions, making it an ideal place for raising children.
7. High Investment Potential Property on the Marbella Golden Mile is a sound investment. The area’s enduring prestige and popularity mean that property values remain robust and continue to appreciate over time. This makes it an attractive option for investors looking for high returns and long-term growth.
8. Prestigious Community Living on the Golden Mile means becoming part of a prestigious and international community. The area attracts a diverse range of residents, including celebrities, business moguls, and influential personalities. This cosmopolitan environment adds to the allure and sophistication of the Golden Mile.
Conclusion: A Premier Lifestyle Destination The Marbella Golden Mile offers a unique blend of luxury, convenience, and natural beauty, making it an unmatched location for homebuyers. Its combination of prime location, exclusive properties, and vibrant lifestyle ensures that it remains one of the most desirable places to live in the world.
Explore the possibilities and discover your dream home on the Marbella Golden Mile with The Agency Marbella. Visit our website or contact us today to find out more.
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