Right by the beachfront, El Fuerte Marbella stands as a prominent landmark, steeped in decades of rich history. Following an extensive renovation last spring, the hotel has turned a page into its next chapter. It continues to flourish, proudly bearing its newly acquired 5-star status.
Long before this swish hotel stood as a testament of hospitality, this beachfront site was home to a fortress, constructed to protect the coast against pirates in 1554. Today, its remnants blend into the terraced landscape as a beacon of heritage and the namesake of the acclaimed El Fuerte Marbella.
Hotel
“The concept we developed is about the sea – the marvel that we have in front of the hotel. [It] revolves around the beauty of the Mediterranean,” explains Jamie Beriestain. With such a prime location, it’s most fitting that the Chilean interior designer wove the elements of the surrounding areas into the design and decor.
The property’s allure lies in its old-world charm, which has been ever so perfectly transformed to exhibit a modern contemporary feel. The interiors are remarkable and one thing is clear: attention to detail is above all. “My brand [and] my personal style is all about details and paying attention to the things that people touch, feel [and] look at,” Beriestain highlights.
With 266 rooms and suites spread across five floors, the property is both expansive and intimate, offering a blend of luxury and comfort. Guests can indulge in six distinct restaurants and cafes, rejuvenate at the spa, work out in the sea facing gym, unwind in the library, or take a dip in one of the three pools, including a fabulous rooftop infinity pool. El Fuerte Marbella has a wealth of space and plenty of variety yet it maintains a refined boutique hotel persona.
Style and sensibility is seen in every arch, pillar, ceramic, tile, rug, and textile. Awash in fresh sandy hues, the colour palette is complemented by warm earth tones and terracotta accents. The walls are graced with specially commissioned artwork created by local artisans and sculptors, as all is underscored by the Andalusian culture.
Rooms
The rooms are stunning, featuring muted colours and an understated elegance. Tiled floors are met with chic, relaxed furnishings, and the rooms range from double rooms to the supreme ‘Selected’ suites. For those looking to elevate their stay, Selected (Selec Cled) is an exclusive add-on that offers premium amenities, including access to the finest rooms, late checkout, and a private lounge with light bites and beverages (available all day).
However, Selected or not, most rooms feature floor-to-ceiling doors that showcase marvellous sea views. The walk-in showers are fitted with dark marble and rainfall heads, and just next door, stands a cutting-edge smart toilet with a remote control. Through open-plan archways, Ottoman panel headboards are neatly tucked behind linen bed skirts, while pinstripe swivel chairs provide the perfect spot to admire the idyllic Mediterranean scenery.
Spa
The Spa at El Fuerte Marbella is powered by Clarins, and through this partnership, they extend their oasis through personalised treatments and spa experiences. Among its offerings is a Hydrotherapy circuit, a blend of classic Clarins facials and massages, along with specialised treatments developed exclusively for the property. One standout treatment is Beauty Sleep, a calming wellness treatment that combines a facial and full-body massage to induce a state of total relaxation.
Food
From tip to toe, El Fuerte Marbella has guests covered for every meal of the day.
Soleo
Soleo, located on the beachfront, specialises in traditional Mediterranean cuisine centred around fresh, locally caught seafood. Guests can savour dishes like Rice & Fideuàs “Del Señorito” (a traditional rice dish), Brothy Lobster Rice, Galician Blonde Beef “Txuleta,” and the beloved Seafood Paella, all while enjoying the lapping sounds of the waves. The fresh Andalusia-style fried squid is also a must-try. And to complement these culinary delights, the Red, White, and Cava Sangria are available by the pitcher for sharing or by the glass for individual indulgence.
Levante
In the front terrace space, enclosed by the pool, fort, and hotel, you’ll find Levante, a dining destination spread across three gastronomic spaces, including an indoor dining room and hammock areas. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served here, with a menu influenced by the rich and diverse aromas, textures, and flavours brought to the Andalusian coast from overseas. Key components of the cuisine include fruit, vegetables, olive oil, Iberian pork, and a wide range of fish and seafood, seamlessly fusing Spanish staples with global influences.
The Le Marché Breakfast is a beautiful buffet spread served here with endless options, and to top it off, there are made-to-order dishes available for ‘Selected’ guests.
Edge by Paco Perez
With the serene blue Mediterranean sea ahead and the Sierra Blanca Mountains backdrop peaking from behind the Old Town, this rooftop restaurant is easily the most impressive of them all. Up in the clouds, it offers a vibey cocktail setting, alongside fine dining. Orchestrated by the esteemed chef Paco Pérez, awarded 5 Michelin stars throughout his career, the taste, presentation and breathtaking views make it a gastronomic experience not to be missed.
Grab N Go & Coffe House by Adrián Fernández
Head to Grab N Go for light bites before setting out or pop into the cute space, fully dedicated to coffee for a caffeine, created by the prestigious barista, Adrián Fernández. Plus there is a special blend, just for El Fuerte Marbella.
Explore
Beyond El Fueture, there are plenty of things to do. Just a few steps away is the promenade, where you can enjoy cycling along the sandy coastline. A short stroll further (in the opposite direction) and you’ll arrive at the iconic Plaza de Los Naranjos (Orange Square) in Old Town Marbella, where the zesty aromas of fresh, blossoming oranges fill the air. This historic square, believed to be the birthplace of marmalade, is infused with Moroccan influences due to Marbella’s proximity to Northern Africa and history of Moorish rule. Orange Square dates back to the 15th century and the Arab influence is evident in its winding medina-like streets, mosaics, and cobbled alleyways lined with charming boutiques and courtyard restaurants.
El Fuerte Marbella’s charm, combined with the subtropical Mediterranean climate, makes this a dream destination from early spring through late autumn.
@elfuertemarbella
Calle El Fuerte, s/n 29602 Marbella, Málaga.
