Balcon del Golf, Parcela 97 urbanizacion Golf Rio Real, Marbella, Spain | 34 951 10 34 24
Lovely countryside setting in a quiet residential area
Attractive rooms with Asian style, all with balcony or terrace and nice views
Breakfast includes a huge amount of choices
Free check-in drink and afternoon tapas
Outdoor pool and terrace plus a small spa
Transfers from airport, train station, and port (for a fee)
Twice-daily housekeeping
Wine tastings, boat trips, private yoga lessons
Free Wi-Fi in common areas
Location removed from city, beach, and attractions
No meal service aside from breakfast (which isn't free for all guests)
Children under 8 not allowed (a pro for some)
The Marbella Heights Boutique Hotel is a lovely little three-pearl property with just five rooms. It's located in a quiet residential area up on a hill that provides spectacular views of the countryside and Mediterranean. There's not really anything within walking distance, and getting to the beach and city require short drives, but it's a tranquil alternative to the buzzier locales closer to the coast. Rooms are attractively decorated in Asian style, and they all have nice views, with even more glimpses of the sea from the hotel's pool and outdoor terraces. Travelers who prefer a boutique hotel closer to the action could check out the La Villa Marbella - Charming Hotel, which is within walking distance of most everything in the Old Town.
Scene
Tranquil boutique hotel with gorgeous views of the countryside
This special place is housed in a lovely two-story stucco building with a Spanish tile roof -- it immediately sets the character-filled tone for a stay here. Guests drive up the hill past beautiful countryside and blooming flowers to the entrance. It's a picturesque setting, and the villa's interiors are equally stunning. Inlaid marble flooring, fireplaces, a stately staircase, and striking Asian accents all combine to create a polished first impression. Check-in takes place seated at a wooden desk, and guests are greeted with a refreshing welcome drink. The inviting lobby looks much like a living room in someone's quaint home, with a comfy sectional and armchairs in front of a fireplace. It opens to a terrace furnished with comfy seating where guests can hang out and take in the spectacular views of the countryside and sea in the distance. The vibe is tranquil and relaxed, ideal for travelers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Children younger than 8 are not allowed, which adds to the peaceful vibe, and couples are the most frequent guests.
Location
Located on a hill in a residential area, driving distance to beach and city
This little hotel is situated in a residential area on a hilltop about a five-minute drive from the beach and seven minutes from Marbella's city center. There's not much around the hotel, but golfers can get to the Rio Real Golf Course in 10 minutes by car. Many guests rent a car for exploring the area because there's nothing within walking distance. The hotel provides transfers from the airport, train station, and port for a fee. The Malaga Airport is about a 35-minute drive northeast, but can take longer in traffic.
Rooms
Attractive rooms with Asian details, all with balconies or terraces and nice views
The five rooms are all individually decorated in an attractive Southeast Asian style. They are all equipped with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, digital music players, and minibars stocked with soft drinks and water. The most luxurious is the spacious Mandara Suite, which features a four-poster canopy bed, wood floors, an elevated living space with sofa and chairs, an enormous closet, and a desk with a computer, printer, and scanner. The suite is nicely decorated with Asian art, statues, and rich crimson accent pillows and rugs. The large and beautiful balcony is furnished for dining and lounging, with views of the countryside. The luxurious bathroom has a jetted tub, double sinks with a granite countertop, a walk-in shower with multiple jets, and a bidet and toilet in a separate room. Toiletries, robes and slippers, and hairdryers are supplied. Other rooms, like the Java Room that we visited, are smaller, but lovely. Decor includes a Balinese king-size bed, beautiful Asian furniture and accents, and a small Juliette balcony. The bathroom is extra compact, but it's fitted with marble and granite and a tub/shower combo. Style throughout all rooms is composed of some riff on the above details, though keep in mind that layouts and certain features will vary. Housekeeping is provided twice a day.
Features
Outdoor pool and terrace, spa services, breakfast, honor bar for alcoholic beverages
One of the highlights of a stay here is the small outdoor pool. It's surrounded by a grassy lawn with lounge chairs and umbrellas that invite poolside relaxing. Lovely goddess statues stand guard at the pool, and there's a hot tub as well. The views of the countryside and distant sea from here are stunning. Massage services are available in the spa treatment room, in guest rooms, or at the pool garden. Manicures and pedicures can be arranged as well. Breakfast is served daily, and guests can dine in the small breakfast room or out on the terrace. There are a ton of options available, including plenty for those with dietary restrictions, and choices are made from a menu the night before. Guests can help themselves to alcoholic drinks at the honor bar in the lobby. Free tapas are offered in the afternoon.The entire villa can be rented for special events, and the hotel is popular for special celebrations. Activities like private yoga sessions, wine tastings, and boat trips can all be arranged. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, and parking is also available. Transfers to the airport and other destinations can be arranged for those without their own cars.