Gran Marbella

Urban living in the luxury of the Golden Mile

Located in the western part of the city and at the gates of the Golden Mile, Gran Marbella is the perfect location to fully enjoy the most authentic luxury without giving up anything. Beach, leisure, gastronomy, shopping… all on the beachfront and in a quiet, private and secure environment.

Gran Marbella, urban luxury on the seafront

Gran Marbella is a perfect example of classic Marbella luxury, an ideal location for those looking for a seaside villa or a premium flat with spectacular views in a quiet, private and secure area, but with all that the city has to offer within a few minutes’ walk.

Which area exactly does Gran Marbella cover?

Gran Marbella, considered one of the most exclusive and sought-after residential areas of the Golden Triangle, is located in the heart of the city. Specifically, in the westernmost part of the city centre, encompassing the entire area from the Palacio de Congresos to the sea, bordering the Golden Mile.

Does Gran Marbella have direct access to the beach?

One of the main attractions of Gran Marbella is its proximity to the sea, with most of the streets in this exclusive area ending at La Fontanilla beach, one of the most beautiful and peaceful in the town. From almost any property in Gran Marbella you can easily reach the beach in just a couple of minutes on foot, with plenty of opportunities to relax, enjoy water sports or enjoy Mediterranean cuisine.

Where does the name Gran Marbella come from?

The area of Gran Marbella, also known as Cipreses del Mar, owes its name to one of the first luxury apartment buildings that was built in this area in the 1990s. Gran Marbella quickly became one of the main residential areas of the town and ended up giving its name to the whole area.

How to get to Gran Marbella?

Being in the heart of the city, communication and connectivity is another of the strengths of Gran Marbella, which can be reached by public transport. Below are the main options for getting to this luxury area.

By public transport

Gran Marbella, located at the beginning of Marbella’s prestigious Golden Mile, is accessible in a number of ways using public transport. Below are the main options for getting to this luxury area.

From Malaga Airport

Direct Bus from the Airport

• Avanza Bus Service: There is a direct bus service that connects Malaga Airport with the bus station in Marbella. This journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
• Timetable: Buses operate quite frequently, especially during peak hours.

Taxi or Private Transport Service

• Travel Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Approximate cost: between 60-80 euros.

From Marbella Bus StationFrom Marbella Bus Station

City Bus

• Line L-1: This urban bus connects Marbella bus station with the city centre, passing close to the Golden Mile.
• Stop Close to Gran Marbella: Get off at the stop “Avda. Ricardo Soriano”, which is the main avenue and very close to Gran Marbella.

Taxi

• Travel Time: About 10 minutes from the bus station to Gran Marbella.
• Approximate Cost: Between 10-15 euros.

From Puente Romano

On Foot

• Distance: Approximately 1.5 km
• Travel Time: Approximately 15 – 20 minutes on foot.
• Route: Leave the Puente Romano hotel and head east along Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe. Continue along this avenue until you reach Avenida Ricardo Soriano. Turn right and continue until you reach Gran Marbella.

Bus

• Bus: You can take the bus L-1 from the bus stop “Puente Romano” in the direction of the centre of Marbella.
• Stop Close to Gran Marbella: Get off at the stop “Avda. Ricardo Soriano (Banús)”, which is close to Gran Marbella.
• Journey time: Approximately 10 minutes

Taxi

• Journey Time: Approximately 5 – 10 minutes.
• Approximate Cost: Between 10 – 15 Euros

From Marbella Club

On Foot

• Distance: Approximately 1.2 km
• Travel Time: About 15 minutes walk.
• Route: Exit the Marbella Club hotel and head east along Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe. Continue along this avenue until you reach Avenida Ricardo Soriano. Turn right and continue until you reach Gran Marbella.

Bus

• Bus: You can take the bus L-1 from the bus stop “Marbella Club” in the direction of Marbella centre.
• Stop Close to Gran Marbella: Get off at the stop “Avda. Ricardo Soriano (Banús)”, which is close to Gran Marbella.
• Journey time: Approximately 10 minutes

Taxi

• Journey Time: Approximately 5 – 10 minutes.
• Approximate Cost: Between 10 – 15 euros.

Is Gran Marbella a safe area?

The security index is one of the most valued parameters when it comes to investing and Gran Marbella has one of the highest standards in the golden triangle.

Security measures

Gran Marbella is in a prime location with a strong focus on the security and wellbeing of its residents. Most properties in the area are framed in gated urbanisations with 24-hour surveillance, security camera systems and concierge services, providing an additional layer of security and peace of mind for residents.

Police presence

Marbella has a significant police presence, with regular patrols by both the Local Police and the Guardia Civil, especially in high-profile tourist and residential areas such as Gran Marbella. In addition, an immediate intervention police unit was introduced in 2023 to respond quickly to any incident, further improving security measures in the town, and the Marbella Plan, launched in 2024 to prevent and prosecute criminal acts that could endanger the harmony of the town.

For more information about buying or renting a property in Gran Marbella, please do not hesitate to contact Pure Living Properties. Our team will be happy to personally assist you in your search for the perfect home in this coastal paradise.

Which residences make up Gran Marbella?

The Gran Marbella area is made up mostly of luxury apartment buildings with landscaped gardens, swimming pools and premium services.

Gran Marbella. It is the most emblematic building in the area and one of the most desirable in the city. It is also the residential with the most green areas and most of the flats enjoy sea views. Prices for a two-bedroom property are in the region of 1.2 million euros and stock is very limited, so there is usually even a waiting list to buy property in Gran Marbella.

Don Gonzalo. This very exclusive and prestigious residential complex, located just behind the Gran Marbella building, has 24-hour security staff, Mediterranean landscaped gardens, children’s and adult swimming pools and underground parking among other amenities. Prices for a three-bedroom flat are in excess of two million euros and availability is also scarce.

MareNostrum. A beautiful beachfront residential complex, built in the mid 90’s, like most of the buildings in the area. It has communal gardens, swimming pool and solarium for residents, as well as concierge and security around the perimeter. The large circle on its façade makes it unmistakable, a curious architectural design for which the locals nicknamed it “The Washing Machine”. Prices can go up to around five million euros for the larger, refurbished flats with sea views.

Nereida, Poseidon, Naiad and Los Cipreses. These are a group of white buildings known as Cipreses del Mar. They are on the first or second line of the beach, depending on the block. They have five floors plus penthouse and share gardens and spacious private areas. The community has a unique swimming pool in the shape of a figure of eight. Thanks to the care taken by the owners, the terraces of these buildings are very harmonious. Each of them has a landscaped strip with small round cypress trees.

Atrium. It is one of the easternmost buildings in the Gran Marbella area. It is second line beach and is situated behind Hapimag Resort Marbella. For a better location it is easy to find by looking for the famous Casa Santi wine and liquor shop. The cut of the building is more rectangular, it is trellised around the perimeter and has unique lampposts surrounding it.

Marbella House. It belongs to the second line beach buildings in the Gran Marbella area. It has peculiar communal swimming pools and some of its flats also enjoy individual swimming pools, totally private. Its architectural design is characterised by the sharp-pointed finishes that stand out from the penthouses and give it an elegant profile.

Marina Mariola. It is a building in front of the sea with a private complex. It has 24 hour surveillance, security entrance, gym, jacuzzi and outdoor swimming pool. The communal green areas are very well kept and include tall cypresses and palm trees.

Alhambra del Mar. It is a residential complex in three phases, whose area closest to the sea is next to the Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá. It is an urbanisation conceived on the outside with narrow streets and gardens open to visitors but with totally private areas on the inside. It is reminiscent of a small Andalusian village modernised. It has a nod to the Alhambra as it has its own “Fountain of the Lions”.

Are there villas in the area of Gran Marbella?

Although most of the properties in Gran Marbella are flats, this exclusive location also boasts a zone of villas in the westernmost area. Specifically, the streets of Goya, Romero de Torres, Zurbarán, Murillo or Velázquez are exclusively made up of large houses surrounded by lush gardens and swimming pools. Most of these villas are of Mediterranean style, although we can also find some of modern style, completely refurbished or even newly built.

Is Gran Marbella a suitable area for families?

Of course, Gran Marbella is an ideal area for families due to its safe environment, ample amenities and proximity to special and educational services. Most of the urbanisations have 24/7 security and controlled access, ensuring a safe environment for children. In addition, all have swimming pools and green areas. In addition, the proximity to the beach and the seafront promenade allows you to enjoy outdoor activities and nature.

What are the best international schools near Gran Marbella?

Gran Marbella has a privileged location with access to all kinds of services.

These are the best international schools in the area.

Swans International School

→ (3 KM from Gran Marbella)

Founded in 1971, Swans International School offers a British education from infant through to International Baccalaureate (IB) level. The school has two campuses, one for primary and one for secondary, and is known for its high academic standards and international atmosphere.

Aloha College

→ (7 KM from Gran Marbella)

Founded in 1982, Aloha College offers a British education from infant through to the International Baccalaureate (IB). The school is located in Nueva Andalucía and is known for its focus on the development of the whole student, both academically and personally, in a multicultural environment.

St. George’s School Marbella

→ (2 KM from Gran Marbella)

It offers a British education for children from 3 to 8 years old. St. George’s School is noted for its friendly atmosphere and its dedication to the early development of its students in a caring environment.

Colegio Alborán

→ (13 KM from Gran Marbella)

Located in Las Chapas, this school offers a bilingual education (Spanish and English) from Infant to Baccalaureate. Colegio Alborán is known for its focus on the personal, academic and sporting development of its students, with extensive facilities and a privileged natural environment.

Are there medical centres near Gran Marbella?

Gran Marbella, located at the beginning of the Golden Mile, offers access to several high quality international private medical centres that guarantee excellent health care in multiple languages.

Hospital Ceram

→ (10 KM from Gran Marbella)

Ceram Hospital is a private international clinic offering a wide range of medical and surgical services, with a special focus on fertility and women’s care. They also offer paediatric services, plastic surgery, and general medicine. The hospital is designed to offer high quality, personalised care in a comfortable and modern environment.

HC Marbella International Hospital

→ (7 KM from Gran Marbella)

Renowned for their personalised approach to patient care and their world-class medical team. They offer a wide range of services, including oncology, cardiology, plastic surgery, and fertility treatments. HC Marbella is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and offers a comfortable and welcoming environment for patients.

Hospital Quirón Salud Marbella

→ (2 KM from Gran Marbella)

It is part of one of the largest hospital groups in Spain, offering comprehensive medical care. Quirón Hospital has 24-hour emergency services, units specialising in cardiology, neurology, traumatology and an intensive care unit. It is known for its excellence in patient care and its modern facilities.

Hospital Ochoa

→ (3 KM from Gran Marbella)

Hospital Ochoa is one of the leading private hospitals in Marbella, offering a wide range of medical and surgical services. It has a team of specialists in various areas, as well as advanced medical technology.

What to do in Gran Marbella?

Gran Marbella is one of the most dynamic areas of the golden triangle, within walking distance and with almost no need to travel by car, residents can enjoy a wide range of beach, culture, leisure, gastronomy and shopping. These are the best things to do in Gran Marbella:

Enjoying the beaches

Gran Marbella is located next to some of the best beaches in Marbella, such as Playa de la Fontanilla and Playa de la Venus. These beaches are perfect for relaxing, swimming or enjoying water sports such as paddle surfing and jet skiing.

Strolling along the promenade

Marbella’s promenade is ideal for walking, jogging or cycling. It is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with sea views. In addition, the promenade connects Gran Marbella with other interesting areas such as Puerto Banús.

Golf

Marbella is renowned for its world-class golf courses. Close to Gran Marbella, you will find courses such as Aloha Golf, Los Naranjos Golf and La Quinta Golf, which offer high quality facilities and spectacular views.

Visit the old town of Marbella

Just a short drive or even walk away, Marbella’s old town is a must-see. Its cobbled streets, charming squares and historic architecture, such as the Church of the Incarnation and the Castle Walls, offer a rich cultural experience.

Discover the exclusivity of Puerto Banús

Puerto Banús, just a few minutes from Gran Marbella, is known for its exclusive nightlife, luxury shopping and premium restaurants. Here you can stroll around the marina, moor your own yacht and enjoy dinner at some of its many high-end restaurants.

Ralli Museum

For art lovers, the Ralli Museum in Marbella houses an impressive collection of Latin American and European art. It is an ideal place to enjoy temporary and permanent exhibitions in a tranquil setting.

Water activities

Marbella offers a variety of water activities that you can enjoy near Gran Marbella, such as boat trips, deep sea fishing and scuba diving. These activities are perfect for taking advantage of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.

Haute Cuisine

Greater Marbella and the surrounding area is full of restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines, from traditional Spanish tapas to gourmet international cuisine. Plaza de los Naranjos in the old town is an excellent place to enjoy local food in a picturesque setting.

What are the best golf courses near Gran Marbella?

Marbella is one of the best destinations in the world for golf lovers, the city has a wide offer, these are the best courses near Gran Marbella.

Aloha Golf Club

→ (6 KM from Gran Marbella)

It is one of the most prestigious golf courses on the Costa del Sol. Designed by Javier Arana and opened in 1975, this 18-hole, par 72 course is characterised by its traditional design, with wide, undulating fairways and strategically placed greens. The club offers first-class facilities, including a gourmet restaurant, a well-equipped pro shop and caddy services.

Los Naranjos Golf Club

→ (7 KM from Gran Marbella)

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and opened in 1977, Los Naranjos Golf Club is known for its challenging design and natural beauty. This 18-hole, par 72 course features wide fairways, strategic bunkers and lakes that add a degree of difficulty for players of all levels. The club has a restaurant with panoramic views, a golf academy and a pro shop.

La Quinta Golf & Country Club

→ (7 KM from Gran Marbella)

It offers 27 holes distributed over three courses of 9 holes each, designed by Manuel Piñero and Antonio García Garrido. This club combines a spectacular natural setting with luxury facilities, including a five-star hotel, a spa, and watt restaurants. La Quinta is known for its technical design that challenges both beginners and experienced players.

What are the best tennis courts near Gran Marbella?

Gran Marbella is a privileged area that offers access to some of the best tennis clubs on the Costa del Sol, these are some of our favourites:

Puente Romano Tennis Club

→ (3 KM from Gran Marbella)

Founded by tennis legend Björn Borg in 1979, the Puente Romano Tennis Club is one of the most prestigious tennis clubs in Europe. It has 10 tennis courts (8 clay and 2 plexipave), as well as 4 paddle courts. This club has hosted important tournaments such as the Davis Cup and attracts players from all over the world.

Manolo Santana Racquets Club

→ (5 KM from Gran Marbella)

Founded by the famous tennis player Manolo Santana in 1997, this club offers a wide range of sports facilities, including multiple tennis and paddle courts, a gymnasium, and a swimming pool. It is known for its family atmosphere and its focus on sports development for children and adults.

Royal Tennis Club Marbella

→ (5 KM from Gran Marbella)

This club offers 8 high quality tennis courts and a variety of training programmes for all ages and levels. In addition, there are paddle tennis courts, a gymnasium and a swimming pool. The Royal Tennis Club also organises tournaments and social events throughout the year.

Are there beauty and relaxation centres near Gran Marbella?

As we said at the beginning of this guide, living in Gran Marbella means not giving up anything, the privileged location gives access to premium services of all kinds, these are our favourites to relax and be pampered:

Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá Spa

→ (5 KM from Gran Marbella)

The spa at the Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá is a place of luxury and relaxation offering a variety of wellness and beauty treatments. Facilities include a heated indoor pool, a modern gym, a Turkish bath, a whirlpool bath and saunas. The spa offers personalised treatments such as massages, facials and body treatments, using high quality products to ensure a rejuvenating experience.

Milk & Roses

→ (2 KM from Gran Marbella)

High-end beauty centre located in the heart of Marbella. It offers a wide range of services including massage, hairdressing and manicure. It is known for its relaxing atmosphere and innovative treatments, using high quality products.

Six Senses Spa en Puente Romano

→ (2 KM from Gran Marbella)

Located in the Puente Romano Hotel, the Six Senses Spa is a wellness oasis offering holistic treatments, including massages, facials and holistic therapies. Facilities include a hammam, hydrotherapy pool, cold water pool, steam bath and sauna.

Marbella Club Hotel Wellness

→ (2 KM from Gran Marbella)

The Marbella Club Hotel’s spa focuses on thalassotherapy, using seawater in its treatments. It offers a wide range of personalised therapies, including massages and body and facial treatments, in a serene and luxurious environment. Facilities include a saltwater swimming pool and saunas.

What are the best restaurants near Gran Marbella?

From Gran Marbella you can easily reach most of the fine dining restaurants that Marbella boasts, however, these are our favourites in this location:

Lobito de Mar

→ (1 KM from Gran Marbella)

Created by chef Dani García, it is located on Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso de Hohenlohe. Described as a “chiringuito without a beach”, this restaurant specialises in fresh seafood and tasty rice dishes. Its casual yet elegant ambience and focus on high quality ingredients make it an exceptional dining experience.

Skina

→ (2 KM from Gran Marbella)

Located in Marbella’s old town, Sina is an intimate Michelin-starred restaurant offering creative, high quality Andalusian cuisine. Its cosy atmosphere and impressive wine cellar make Skina an exclusive dining experience.

Marbella Club Grill

→ (2.5 KM from Gran Marbella)

This restaurant is located in the iconic Marbella Club Hotel. It is known for its grilled cuisine, with dishes such as chuletón (steak) and entrecote de Café de Paris. The ambience is elegant and romantic, perfect for a special dinner.

Messina

→ (3 KM from Gran Marbella)

With one Michelin star, Messina offers a fusion of flavours from South America, Asia and Spain. Its tasting menus include innovative dishes such as sea urchin and Marbella stake. The refined ambience complements the haute cuisine served.

What are the best shopping areas near Gran Marbella?

Marbella is also a shopping destination and Gran Marbella is a perfect location for that, here are some of the best shopping areas nearby:

Avenida Ricardo Soriano

→ (1.5 KM from Gran Marbella)

Avenida Ricardo Soriano is one of Marbella’s main shopping streets, offering a mix of luxury boutiques, fashion shops, jewellers and elegant cafés. It is an ideal place to stroll and enjoy a high-end shopping experience in a unique urban setting.

El Corte Inglés Marbella

→ (3 KM from Gran Marbella)

This famous Spanish department store offers a wide range of luxury brands in fashion, beauty and home. El Corte Inglés is known for its excellent customer service and variety of products, making it a must-visit shopping destination.

Puerto Banús

→ (3 KM from Gran Marbella)

Puerto Banús is the epicentre of luxury on the Costa del Sol. Here you will find high-end boutiques such as Hermes, Dolce&Gabbana, Gucci, Versace, Dior or Jimmy Choo. As well as the shops, the marina is ideal for strolling around and enjoying the luxury yachts and sports cars.

Are there any properties for sale in Gran Marbella?

There is always some property for sale in Gran Marbella, but as we have mentioned it is one of the most sought after areas of the town centre and availability is very limited, so available properties are not usually on the market for long.

One aspect to bear in mind is that in Gran Marbella there is no possibility of buying newly built flats, as there have been no plots available for years. The stock is made up of second-hand properties, whose owners know the value of the area, so prices tend to be high.

Despite limited availability, Pure Living Properties offers properties for sale in Gran Marbella, these are some of our featured properties:

Tim Waller Property Consultant

Meet Tim

Tim is a member of the Pure Living Properties Sales Department. He has always understood business in an ethical and honest manner for which he is renowned amongst professional colleagues. Born in the UK, but having grown up in Belgium, Tim represents the best of British assertiveness and Central European multiculturalism. Something that is undoubtedly reflected in each of his sales and is much appreciated by our clients.