Museums in Marbella

Marbella is referred to as a paradise for all Golf lovers, but there is so much more to this beautiful holiday resort. Enjoy what Marbella has to offer by visiting some of the exquisite museums which are scattered around the Costa del Sol. From art to history, there is a lot to be learnt whilst visiting Spain. Excellent for both children and adults, you can rest assured that a trip to a museum will be great for all the family.

Bonsai Museum (Museo del Bonsai)

This institution is famous for being one of Marbella’s most unusual museums. Within this attraction you will find a large collection of meticulously groomed miniature trees, large bonsai trees, rock plantings, and landscaped areas with a real classic oriental feel. Also featured are a number of naturally dwarfed trees which were collected from the nearby mountains. The Museo del Bonsai is situated in the vast Parque Arroyo de la Represa.

Contemporary Engraving Museum (Museo del Grabado Espanol Contemporáneo)

This contemporary tour features a valuable collection of art works and is known for being one of Marbella’s most important and exciting museums. By visiting this exhibition you will learn a lot of great historic facts such as this museum was once an old hospital building which dates back to the 1500s. You will find many historic and elaborate engravings, as well as art works by famous artists, such as Picasso and Miro, amongst others.

Casa Grande

This exhibition is a new addition to the Marbella art scene, the Casa Grande offers a spacious gallery area with many changing exhibitions of paintings and sculptures. You can find amazing pieces of art work by many famous international artists here.

Don’t Let The Rain Dampen Your Holiday When Staying At Your Summer Place Villa

On average it only rains 35 days a year in Marbella, however, it’s logical to entertain the idea that you may just catch one those rainy days when staying at your Summer Place Villa.

Instead of focusing on what the rain may stop you from doing, think of all the possibilities that may derive from the outcome of rain. Why not take a trip out to one of the local malls surrounding you villa like the La Canada shopping mall in Marbella, this large modern shopping centre houses over 150 shops so you can expect a large assortment of different shops available to you.

Shopping may suit the ladies but what about the whole family? Inside the mall is a cinema, bowling alley and numerous restaurants so you can spend a whole day out enjoying a range of different activities.

If you fancy a day out and have a thirst for knowledge then you can literally quench your thirst by visiting Mijas wine museum. Here you can come and discover more about wine, located in the picturesque mountain village of Mijas, just 6KM up the mountain from Fuengirola. The wine museum is located in the Casa de Trasformación de la Luz, which was built back in 1839!

Why not attend one of the regular wine tasting courses, immerse yourself in Spanish food and wine. This course is designed for a minimum of 8 people so you can bring all your friends and family.

If that doesn’t take your fancy why not visit the beautiful street markets placed all alongside the Costa del Sol Street, opening times vary for each market and day. Fresh produce such as fruit and vegetables can be found within the market so take a trip down and enjoy the experience.

Even though rain seems unlikely it’s always best to be prepared that is why here at Summer Place villa we like to give you inspiration for your luxury holiday.

Quality Motor Boat Rental Surrounding Your Summer Place Villa

One of the best things to do whilst staying at Summer Place is to go out and discover the stunning views that surround the villa. We believe one of the best ways to explore is by journeying out on to the water, and this won’t be a problem as Marbella is known for its beautiful coastal lines.

One major business opportunity in Marbella is boat rental services. A quick Google around and you may be stuck for choice when it comes to venturing out on to the water, however, we recommend Sotogrande Sailing CentreS.L boat rental tours.

This particular tour offers the rental of a 600 horsepower luxury 33 ft Sea Ray Sundancer motor boat, you can rent this service per hour, half day or full day. Prices start from 140.00 EUR which includes an hour’s worth of fuel which will provide you with 8 nautical miles of enjoyment. With this high quality tour you can take a trip down to the coast, enjoy cruising whilst watching the sunset, go looking for dolphins amongst the gentle waves, riding on the ski-bob – or just spend your time relaxing, the options are endless.

The price includes up to eight people so you can bring all your friends and family along, you will also receive refreshments within the rental fee. Offers for this specific tour are conditional with regards to the different seasons and promotions.

Spending your time relaxing on the water is a great way to build memories that will last forever, so whilst staying at the Summer Place Villa take a trip out and enjoy what Marbella has to offer.

Private Wine and Sherry Tour to Jerez de la Frontera

Whilst staying at Summer Place villa there is a range of unique and exciting activities to take part in, the hardest part is just choosing what to do on what day!

One of the main attributes to staying in Spain is the exquisite food and drink that is available, so why not spend a whole day tantalizing your taste buds with a sherry and wine tasting tour. This tour will allow you to experience Spain like never before as you will be privately given a tour to Jerez de la Frontera where you will delve into the beautiful sensation of Sherry tasting.

Taking part in this private tour will give you the opportunity to discover delicious sherry and Andalusian wines. If you are wondering how you will get to Jerez de la Frontera that you don’t need to worry. You will be picked up by us, we will drive you privately in a luxury Chrysler 300c to various destinations.

You will be taken to the most important wine venues that Spain has to offer and get to experience tasting 8 to 12 regional wines whilst feeding your knowledge about the origin, types, and various other information of what you will taste.

This tour includes visits to vineyards and cellars, wine tasting, tapas galore with sangria and/or wine, a visit to Jerez de la Frontera and the typical old white villa of Medina Sidonia.

The day will include a visit to a beautiful Cathedral, which will then progress to the Gonzalez Byass Tio Pepe winery tour on board a small but pleasant train. This will be followed by a 4 sherry wine tasting session with tapas, we will then take you to the Alhambra Moorish Fortress which will be followed up by lunch and tapas. You will then visit the old white villa of Medina Sidonia, which will also include a beautiful visit to the church on top of the hill with amazing solid silver altars.

On the way back to your Summer Place Villa you will be shown the impressive Gibraltar rock and a final wine tasting will take place. Throughout your journey complimentary wines and soft drinks will be offered throughout.

This experience will last 10 hours and will take you on a journey that will make you and your taste buds come alive, so, for more information contact the operator: Experience Box Spain.

Hiking, trekking and walking in Marbella

 Marbella is a haven for beautiful views and wildlife so why not experience what the Costa de Sol has to offer by taking part in a guided Hiking, trekking or walking tour.

Spend half a day of your time exploring the beauty of the great outdoors that surrounds your luxury summer place villa.

On the tour you will not only experience what Marbella has to offer but you will also learn about the region’s history and landscape by the local guides that will assist you.

A Hiking, trekking and walking tour will provide you with an excellent way to travel around Marbella where you will get the opportunity to learn and get to know the surrounding area.

What the tours have to offer:

•    Enjoy walking through the beautiful olive orchards
•    See the sunset in all its glory by hiking up the mountain "La Concha de Marbella"
•    View the beauty of the ‘limestone massif’  mountain located in sierra Blanca
•    Take in the fresh air and the smell of nature as you hike around the Sierra de les Nieves

It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit Marbella, there will always be a unique tour that will provide you with a fantastic day out and will show you the splendour that the Costa de Sol has to offer.  So put on your hiking boots and enjoy the wonder that surrounds the summer place villa.

Tennis in Marbella

Marbella is known for being a popular golfing destination, however, tennis is another sport that dominates the area. Enjoy participating in tennis lessons or if you like competing try entering the local tournaments that overlooks the beauty that Costa De Sol has to offer.

Below is a list of some of the best tennis clubs in Marbella:

PUNETE ROMANO

Located at the heart of the Golden Mile, Puente Romano Marbella beach hotel offers 5 star tennis facilities on clay and hard surface courts.  The club has been established as one the most professional clubs within Southern Europe as it hosts exciting tournaments such as the Davis Cup and ATP matches. Playing tennis on the Puente Romano courts will contribute to an outstanding experience in Marbella.

EL CASCO TENNIS CLUB

El Casco tennis club is one of the oldest clubs in the Costa De Sol, with 40 years of experience you can enjoy playing tennis on its high quality clay courts. You will also be surrounded by beautiful unique scenery that will provide you with a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

LEW HOAD TENNIS CLUB

Renowned for being one of the best tennis clubs on the Costa De Sol, it is surrounded by tropical gardens that offer astonishing views. The club was founded by Wimbledon champion Lewis Hoad and offers a range of activities that can be enjoyed on site.

Make the most of your stay in Marbella and have a game or two of the beautiful sport that is tennis. It doesn’t matter if you are not a pro there are lessons available for you to enjoy and learn in the sun whilst you stay in your Summer Place villa.

Cuisine in Marbella

Southern Spain attracts thousands of tourists with its brilliant weather, beaches and nightlife. However, many tourists may not get the opportunity to taste traditional Spanish dishes made from local produce. Marbella boasts a variety of exceptional restaurants and bistros, which accommodate for all tastes. Traditional Andalucian cuisine, based on seafood of the Malagueño coast is available alongside a diverse range of international restaurants.

Seafood is fundamental in many Spanish delicacies and these are offered throughout Marbella. A popular dish combines fried fish, anchovies, and mackerel with mullet or squid. Being situated at the sea front, fresh ingredients are used making authentic Marbella food popular among tourists. Some of the most popular Spanish dishes are also served including Tapas and Paella, that are a must have during your stay.

Cipriano is a renowned fish/seafood restaurant located in Puerto Banus which is open daily for lunch and dinner. Having been praised by Nobel Prize Don Camilo José Cela, Cipriano has earned the reputation as one of the most prestigious restaurants in Marbella. Providing a quiet, relaxed atmosphere to enjoy their fresh fish, homemade pastries and extensive wine lists makes it a perfect restaurant for visitors and lovers of fine cuisine.

Aside from Spanish dishes, Marbella has a wealth of restaurants offering Chinese, Italian, Indian and Thai eateries. This wide selection ensures that you are never out of ideas of somewhere to eat.  Los Bandidos is an international restaurant located in Puerto Banus which has been running for almost twenty years and remains one of the most popular eateries of the area. Menus offer an innovative mix of Swedish and French cuisine served in a cosy environment which is open daily for dinner only.

Bakeries found lining the streets of Marbella sell oil cakes, wine donuts and pastries. If you wish to cook yourself, shellfish delicacies can be purchased along with Bacalao (salted cod), Butifarra (white sausage) and Chorizo meat.

Marbella has grown from a seaside village to a popular tourist destination, this has encouraged development of restaurants providing a bigger than ever range of food. However, the authentic, traditional cuisine can also be found in restaurants in Marbella making it a brilliant place to visit.

Bike Tours Marbella

Bike Tours in Marbella offers the opportunity to explore Marbella’s life, history and charm in an exciting and healthy way. 

The tours take you through narrow streets, lesser known public places, through the esplanade along the Mediterranean Sea and beautiful parks. 

Marbella offers you a city with a stylish sight and flair of passing times. A bike tour provides an excellent opportunity to get to know the city coupled with a fantastic day out.

Bike Tours in Marbella generally split into two different tours. These include the city centre and the famous Puerto Banús .  The city centre tours are deep in rich history and stunning architecture. Whereas the Marina of Puerto Banus is where extravagant yachts dock daily and outrageously expensive cars are placed side by side. 

Highlights of the tours include:

• Ancient city walls and castle ruins 
• Beautiful beach promenade
• Historic old town with narrow streets and whitewashed houses
• Puerto Banus Marina
• Old fishermen village in the east of Marbella
• Remains of the fortress-Fuerte
• Holy Church of Christ
• The Golden Mile

Whatever time of the year you visit Marbella, you can be sure the bikes tours will provide a fantastic day out and once you have enjoyed the stunning views Marbella has to offer you can kick back and enjoy the luxuries of the summer place villa.

Golfing In Marbella

Marbella is a paradise for all golf lovers. The Costa del Sol is renowned across the world as one of the most beautiful destinations for a golf holiday. There are more than 25 golf courses in Marbella making it the most popular destination for a variety of fantastic courses in the Costa del Sol.

Below we have listed some of the best courses in Marbella:

The Marbella Golf club

The Marbella Golf Club us a brilliant course with a great design. The Fairways are narrow and protected by trees. Tee shots are high on a mountain which makes them challenging for even the most experience golfer.















The Rio Real Golf Club

Rio Real Golf Course gets its name from the river that meanders through the golf course on its way to the Med. The 1965 layout is the work of Javier Arana, Spain's foremost course designer, and he has created an easily-walked golf course which most players will be able to cope with. The nearby sea is visible from the elevated parts of this beautiful golf course.












The Aloha Golf Club

The Aloha Golf Course is an exclusive club that has one of the most beautiful and outstanding golf courses in Spain. This course was designed by Javier Arana, technician and strategist, and has hosted the PGA European Tour, in 2007, 2008 and 2012, standing as a reference point for both professional and amateurs who wish to enjoy the real essence of golf on a unique course.











With numerous courses, driving ranges and golf schools, the beginner can learn to play and the expert can improve his technique in the warmth of the Costa del Sol sun. It's not surprising that so many golfers each year choose the Marbella as their holiday destination.

Marbella In The Spring

Marbella has a beautiful climate all year round but the end of march also marks the end of what constitutes a rainy season in southern Spain. Springtime in Marbella is an extremely pleasant season where the sun shines all day long and temperatures don't rise above the mid-twenties.

This relatively cool period of the year therefore is the perfect time to take on some of the more energetic activities that Marbella has to offer.

Golf

Marbella is a popular golfing destination and for keen players, spring golf in Marbella is an excellent way to spend time. There are several courses to choose from and there is information on Costa Del Sol Golf by following the link.

Cycling

Get on two wheels and discover parts of Marbella you never knew existed. From the narrow streets of the old town up to the old crumbling ruins, bike rides are a great way to explore the local area. There are many places to hire bikes as well as several organised tours.

Take A Wildlife Tour

Spring time is the time of year when the northern hemisphere bursts into life and it's no different in the countryside around Marbella. Vehicle tours can be uncomfortably hot in the height of summer so earlier in the year is a far better time to go.

There are a choice of tour operators offering half or full days out where you can learn about the native plants and animals as well as taking time out for a bit of wildlife spotting or swimming in remote pools and streams.

End of the Day

No matter what you choose to do in Marbella, the luxury villa of Summer Place is not far. And with such a great place for you to come back to at the end of the day, you'll enjoy any activity to the fullest.

There are details of all the attractions and tours you can do in the Summer Place welcome pack for fun and relaxation no matter what time of year it is.

Things to see and do in Marbella

Things to see and Southern Spain is a wonderful place that benefits from fantastic weather and wonderful, friendly people. Renowned for its fabulous beaches, food and nightlife it is a holiday winner year on year with visitors from across the globe.

However what many tourists miss out on when visiting the region is realising that there is much more to Marbella, and Andalucia, than just beaches and the nightlife.
Hire a car and drive in any direction and within 30 minutes to 2 hours you are met by a whole different Spain and there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Mijas Pueblo
Mijas Pueblo is just a short drive inland from Marbella and Summer Place Villa. It is a typical white, Spanish village. Accessible by bus or car it is a must visit location for any trip to this region. With its narrow cobbled streets this picturesque hillside village, although home to a large ex-pat community, has managed to retain much of its traditional Andalucian way of life.

Visit the village to enjoy a Spanish tapas lunch take a ride on the Donkey Taxis that still operate around the village.

Santa Semana – Holy Week – is when the Spanish celebrate Easter and this is when Mijas really comes alive with history and tradition, a celebration not to be missed.

El Chorro
More commonly known as Malaga’s Lake District, El Chorro is a small village in the Guadalhorce Valley. The village is located in the limestone region and is home to reservoirs, created by the introduction of a large dam in the 1920’s, that are a stunningly beautiful turquoise colour and this is where the Spanish come to picnic, swim and fish and relax with family and friends.

You can also camp here so if you want to leave your luxury Spanish villa rental and get back to nature you can do so in El Chorro – just remember your mosquito repellent!

Ronda
Just 45 minutes from the coast Ronda is set in between three natural parks and is the birthplace of modern bullfighting, Spain’s national sport.

Although considered barbaric by many, the sport, and its heritage, cannot be ignored. A must see on any visit to the town is the Plaza de Toros, the oldest bullring in Spain, which is now a museum charting the history of bullfighting. Look closely and you may see memorabilia charting the success of Frank ‘El Ingles’ Evans, the Salford born English bullfighter who was, at the height of his career, 63rd in the world rankings.

Ronda works hard to retain its historic charm and is known worldwide for the views from its three bridges that span the El Tajo gorge.

Holidaying in southern Spain has so much more to offer than just the beach and the pool. Make the most of your stay on the Costa del Sol and explore this fantastic region to begin to truly understand the beauty of Spain.

Beach Clubs to visit in Puerto Banus

If you are visiting Puerto Banus on holiday, it’s a good idea to have an idea of the beach clubs in the area. Beach clubs are the perfect place to spend a lazy day, soaking up the sun and having a dip in the pool or the sea. After the day is over the beach clubs turn into the place to be with pool parties and DJ’s and a collection of VIP’s.
If you are looking for a luxury establishment then you are spoilt for choice, this area of Marbella is like Spain’s answer to Saint Tropez.

Buddha Beach combines a pool on the beach front so you can have your choice of sea or pool. There are a range of bed options on offer from a single sunbed to double beds and four poster beds depending on the level of luxury you want. You don’t need to move as there is a snack and drinks service to the sunbeds.

If you do chose to move you can visit the alfresco restaurant where east meets west. Choose from Sushi, fresh local seafood or Thai fusion cuisine or why not a combination. The menu is varied and will have dish to suit all tastes.

Also away from the sunbed you can visit the spa area, where you can get a head or full body massage or immerse your feet in fish with Aqua Sole fish pedicures.

The day doesn’t end when the sun goes down, Buddha beach hosts Limelight Dance events on Thursday nights and Funky Friday pool parties every Friday. On Sundays there’s the brunch buffet the perfect cure for the night before at 35€ for a buffet of thai, sushi, meat and seafood.
There is also the pool party event of the season Lovejuice on Saturday 4th June 2012. Buddha beach is open from April through to September

Ocean Club Marbella is located on the seafront, with a large saltwater swimming pool. The pool is surrounded by double sunbeds. The restaurant has a menu suitable for most tastes, with a combination of sushi, classical French cuisine and traditional Mediterranean foods. This beach club attracts the top VIP’s into the VIP areas and can offer a party service where you can design every aspect of the party. The Ocean club has Tropicana Fridays with cocktails and entertainment with a tropical feel. OC Saturdays feature the clubs resident DJ’s liven up the night with amazing tunes and entertainment. You can then chill on the Sunday with Lazy Sundays. This club is open from the end of April to mid-September.

If you are just looking for a beachside restaurant with sunbeds then take a look at Mistral Beach that offers standard sun loungers, an Italian themed restaurant that also offers local dishes. The local water sports centre will keep you entertained with varied water sports to try.
Pedro’s beach is the place to go if you are not looking for a resort style environment. The bar hasn’t really changed in years, it’s very laid back, and you can rent a sunbed and have a drink or snack on the fresh fish dishes
.
With the choice of beach clubs and beaches on offer Puerto Banus is a great location for a holiday, stay in a luxury villa rental in Marbella and visit the Spanish Saint Tropez.

Ski in Sierra Nevada

Most people see Marbella as a summer destination; however Marbella is only a couple of hours drive from the Sierra Nevada, a Spanish Ski Resort.
The Ski Season tends to run from the last week in November until the 1st of May, but there does tend to be snow all year round on the peaks, so you can visit at any time of year. If you are visiting Marbella in the summer, Sierra Nevada is also a great destination for walking, cycling, horse riding and mountain climbing.

The highest peaks in the Sierra Nevada are Mulhacén, Veleta and Alcazaba but there are a number of smaller peaks that make up the range. The southern side has long narrow river valleys. The steeper and craggier northern side is more irregular. The ski resort is located on the Northern slopes of Velata.

At the foot of the slope is the resort village of Pradollano, it is home to a large number of shops that rent and sell ski equipment, a supermarket and a number of bars and restaurants and ski schools. The next resort is at the mid station at Borreguiles which is served by two cable cars from Pradollano, there are cafés, restaurants, ski schools, souvenir shops and some hire shops and lockers.

Outside of the winter holidays and weekends, visitors on weekdays will find a fairly quiet resort that does not really suffer from overcrowding. Even holiday and weekend visitors tend only to find short queues if the whole of the resort is open as it covers a large area.
Over the past few years the number of activities you can do at the resort has grown, you can skate at the ice rink, and there are toboggans, ski-bikes mini-skis and a track for wheeled toboggans. The resort has also recently opened a superpark in an area of the resort called Loma de Dilar. This area is geared up for snowboards with half pipes, s boxes, pyramids, gaps, rails and jumps. The area is away from the skiing area and well supervised so you are unlikely to run into any beginner skiers. New for the 2011-2012 season is a new half pipe 165 metres long and 6 metres deep for some really big jumps.

The resort has a selection of different difficulty runs there are 16 Green runs, 40 blue runs, 50 red runs and 9 black runs. So the resort is suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers alike.

If you don’t fancy a week long ski holiday but want a day out, you can stay in Marbella and visit Sierra Nevada. It’s one of the only places in Europe where you can ski in the morning and swim in the sea in the afternoon. So why not visit our Luxury Villa Rental in Marbella and take some time and visit Sierra Nevada while you are in the area.