Its flawless service, magical beachfront position, Andalucian-village design and outstanding gastronomic line-up – Michelin stars included – keep it lively, current and very desirable.

​

The Puente Romano extends through beautiful gardens right down to the beach on Marbella's Golden Mile. You can stroll along the seafront promenade to both Marbella's old town and Puerto Banús marina in 45 minutes, or cycle in 15 minutes.

​

With blue-and-white tiles decorating its crinkled whitewashed walls and terracotta-tiled stairs, the five-star Puente Romano feels distinctly, charmingly Andalucian, and is inspired by local village architecture. Paths weave from one tip of the lush, expansive grounds to the other, past swimming pools and through beautiful gardens scented with night-blooming jasmine and over 400 other world-wandering plant species, from palms and geraniums to bird-of-paradise flowers. Rooms are cleverly laid out to maximise privacy, in huddles named after Andalucian towns (Zahara, Ronda, Nerja).

​

The 219 bright, contemporary and spacious suites and three villas vary hugely in style and setup. Each includes a tea/coffee kit, bottled water, its own terrace, and a tablet packed with hotel information, along with robes, slippers, a professional hairdryer and Aromatherapy Associates toiletries. Interiors are by Andrew Martin, mostly in crisp whites, greys, creams and neutrals, with the odd splash of colour. Some rooms have a more old-school-Andalucian look. You'll be choosing between garden or sea views