• In 2025 it will be 60 years since the opening of this legendary hotel, founded in 1965 by designers Jamie Parladé and Duarte Pinto Coelho. 
• In 1978 its restaurant La Fonda received the first Michelin Star within a Marbella hotel, which held until 1995. 

Marbella, 9th April 2025– As part of its 60th anniversary and its consolidation as a luxury landmark in Marbella, La Fonda Heritage Hotel, the first member of Relais & Châteaux in Andalucia, presents a full schedule of cultural events for the spring. This initiative is part of the hotel’s objective to celebrate its anniversary with a variety of activities throughout the year, becoming a meeting point for lovers of gastronomy, culture and unique experiences in the heart of Marbella’s Old Town. 

History of a Marbella icon

The emblematic building that today houses the boutique hotel has a history as unique as it is fascinating. What began as a private residence was also a church, a school and since 1965 a landmark of Marbella’s high society, transformed into a luxury hotel by renowned designers Jamie Parladé and Duarte Pinto Coelho.  

In 1976, the hotel restaurant became a gastronomic epicentre under the direction of Gustav Horcher— known as Moppy—, son of the legendary Otto Horcher. His impeccable culinary offering and distinguished service attracted personalities from around the world, earning him the first Michelin star in 1978, which it held until 1995 (both editions included), the date of its closure.

Forty years later, the building, already in a state of ruin, was acquired with the intention of restoring it to its former splendour. An ambitious restoration project was undertaken that lasted seven years. During the works, valuable archaeological remains belonging to the former Hermitage of San Sebastián came to light. Many of these elements have been preserved and today form an integral part of the three 16th century buildings that make up the current hotel. 

One of the greatest treasures is the original dome of the church’s alcove, along with 18th century murals, now integrated into the spectacular Heritage Suite, one of the 20 rooms offered by this boutique hotel full of elegance and history. 

Cultural and Gastronomic Agenda

To commemorate the second anniversary of its reopening, throughout the month of April the hotel restaurant will offer its guests a complimentary cocktail designed especially for the occasion. A toast to the history, the excellence and the rebirth of a legendary place. 

This spring’s notable activities include:

APRIL

• 10th of April – Roundtable on the Chinese market

Marbella City Council, through its Tourism Department, and in collaboration with Asialink, will hold a day of analysis on the opportunities of the Chinese Market. The meeting will feature the prominent participation of influencer Min Zhao, a regular contributor to Turespaña. The roundtable will take place from 10:00am to 12:00pm.

• 25th of April – Literary meeting with Agatha Ruiz de la Prada 

The iconic designer Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada is the star of this literary meeting in Marbella, where she will discuss her two latest books: “Mis Memorias” and “Todo por un plan”. “Mis Memorias” is an intimate tour of her personal and professional life, from her first steps in the world of fashion to her consolidation as one of the most recognised figures in Spanish design. “Todo por un plan”, meanwhile, reveals the ins and outs of her creative universe, exploring with humour and intelligence her philosophy of life, art, aesthetics and her most personal reflections.  

The event will take place at 7:30pm in Los Patios de La Fonda, in an intimate and approachable format, designed for lovers of literature and fashion. We will soon confirm who will accompany the author during the talk.

MAY

• 8th, 9th and 10th of May –Be Beautiful vase exhibition

The prestigious German interior decorator Bernard Biscontini Hasse, owner of the Be Beautiful boutique, will present an original collection of 20 ceramic, glass, porcelain, and stone vases, the work of various international artists that fuse design and contemporary sensibility. A unique opportunity to contemplate handcrafted pieces full of originality and refinement.

JUNE

• 5th of June – Business networking with LA RED CIT

The hotel will be the setting for this dynamic professional meeting organised by the CIT Marbella Association of business owners and professionals. LA RED CIT is based on an agile format that favours the creation of synergies and real opportunities for collaboration between local business owners and entrepreneurs. 

• 9th-14th of June 2025 – Marbella Fair

On the occasion of the Marbella Fair, La Fonda will present a special program with leisure, music and gastronomy. An invitation to celebrate local traditions with the style and elegance that characterise our space. (More details coming soon).

• 27th of June – Candlelit Gala Dinner and Concert by Joaquín de Pareja- Obregón

The renowned pianist and composer Joaquín Pareja-Obregón will offer a unique musical evening that fuses piano and flamenco in an incomparable setting. The experience will begin with an exclusive gala dinner, designed to delight the senses before giving way to the live concert. An evening to enjoy haute cuisine and music at their finest.  (More details coming soon).

Gastronomic Holy Week
In addition, between the 13th and the 20th of April, the hotel restaurant will offer a special Holy Week menu designed by executive chef Jorge González. Inspired by the traditional flavours of the season and reinterpreted with a signature touch, the menu will be available every night from 7:00pm to 11:00pm, at a fixed price of €68 (drinks not included).

Full Moon Experience at La Fonda
Under the magic of the full moon, La Fonda is transformed into the setting for a unique sensory experience where live music, signature cocktails and a gastronomic proposal specially designed for the occasion come together. The Sky Bar, with its views of Marbella’s historic centre, hosts this unforgettable event that celebrates lunar energy and the beginning of summer. 

The next editions of the Full Moon Experience will take place on May 13th, 14th and 15th and coinciding with the Marbella Fair on June 11th, 12th and 13th, adding a festive atmosphere to the celebration that will make each night an unforgettable experience. 

With this commemorative program, La Fonda Heritage Hotel reaffirms its commitment to excellence, art and the dynamism of Marbella’s historic centre. 

La entrada La Fonda Heritage Hotel in Marbella celebrates its 60-years of history with a spring full of art, gastronomy and culture  se publicó primero en MN Comunicación.