• Karim Rebeiz (18), an IE University student, was awarded first place of the first edition of the MEC with his project F925, a clothes brand inspired by entrepreneurship, which already has a TikTok account with a community of more than 250,000 followers. The prize included 3000 euros in seed funding and 6 months of mentorship with Tech2Impact.

• Jonas Tellander (cofounder of Storytel), Linda Höglund (CFO Job&Talent, ex-Goldman Sachs and Klarna), and Andreas Mihalovits (Global Super Angels Club, 180+ startup investments) evaluated the projects with the same judgment that they would apply in a real investment round

• Based on references such as Shark Tank, Junior Achievement, and DECA of EE.UU, The Pool of Talents is unique in the Spanish business-education landscape: an ecosystem founded by and for students that connects the classroom and the business world with international standards.

MARBELLA, 11th of April 2026- What until now has only existed in Silicon Valley, Boston, and New York has just touched down in the Costa del Sol. The Pool of Talents, the first student-led initiative that connects young people from Marbella with the real business world, celebrated its official launch this Saturday with the first edition of the Marbella Youth Entrepreneurship Cup (MEC), an unprecedented entrepreneurship competition in Spain that puts students aged 16 to 21 in front of real investors to defend their business projects in three minutes.

The event, held in The Pool Marbella- located on the first floor of El Corte Inglés El Capricho- brought together more than a hundred attendees, including entrepreneurs, representatives from the education sector, international investors, and families. The event also featured the presence of Vanessa Ortiz de Zárate Galeras, councillor for the Nueva Andalucía district in the Marbella City Council, who has supported the initiative since its early stages.

A MODEL THAT COMES FROM AMERICA

The Pool of Talents draws directly from the Anglo-Saxon entrepreneurial culture. Its format combines the philosophy of the popular TV show Shark Tank- adapted in Spain as Diners- with the youth talent acceleration model promoted by organisations such as Junior Achievement, DECA, and Y Combinator in the United States. In this context, the competition is not just a contest: it is a high-demand environment in which participants receive real mentorship, face tough questions, and present before a panel of investors that makes no concessions. 

The initiative was born in February 2024, by two students in Marbella, Carlota Pulido and Yuval Arbel, who, when trying to find internships in their area, encountered a complete lack of opportunities for young people despite the more than 24 international schools present in the area. Their response was to create an ecosystem that did not exist. 

“We are creating opportunities so that students are able to step out of the classroom and enter the real world where they can find their feet. Conventional education is no longer designed for the speed and complexity of today’s world. The Pool of Talents is the answer to this gap”, said Shahrzad Rostamian, CEO of The Pool of Talents.

THE GRAND FINAL: EIGHT TEAMS, THREE MINUTES, ONE WINNER

After weeks of mentoring and preparation, eight finalist teams took to the Pool Marbella stage to present their business projects before a demanding jury of three figures of international reference:

• Jonas Tellander, co-founder of Storytel, the main audiobook platform in Europe with more than 2.5 million subscribers and available in more than 40 languages.
• Linda Höglund, CFO of Job&Talent, with experience at Goldman Sachs, Klarna, and Electronic Arts.
• Andreas Mihalovits, co-founder of Global Super Angels Club and founder of Marbella Tech Angels, with more than 180 startup investments in his portfolio. 

Each team was given exactly three minutes to present their idea, followed by a tough round of questions from the jury. The evaluation criteria (innovations, market potential, team capability, and ability to respond under pressure) replicated the standards of any real investment process. 

Karim Rebeiz (18), IE University student, was awarded first place of the first edition of the MEC, which included 3000 euros of seed funding and six months of mentorship through the Tech2Impact Edge program, an accelerator with a global network of more than 1000 innovators present across 60 countries. His project, F925, a fashion brand inspired by entrepreneurship, also stands out for its digital traction, with a community of more than 250,000 followers on TikTok.

Second place went to StyleBot, developed by Naiya Belén, Tedde Van Den Berg y Ainara Miqueo Olavarría (17), Atlas American School of Malaga students. Their proposal: an AI-powered styling app that allows users to optimize their wardrobes using clothes they already own, aligning with new, more sustainable, and more efficient consumption trends.

MORE THAN A COMPETITION: THE LAUNCH OF AN ECOSYSTEM

While the MEC marked the official launch of The Pool of Talents as an organisation, the initiative has in fact been active in Marbella for over a year with a model that goes far beyond one-off events. The platform is built on three pillars: potential, preparation, and opportunity. It offers both public programs open to all students – such as workshops, case competitions, and the MEC – as well as exclusive opportunities for partner schools, including internships, company visits, mentorship access, and a yearly schedule of activities.

Their academic partners include IE University and Marbella International University Centre (MIUC), as well as leading schools such as The British International School of Marbella and EiC. On the corporate side, the event was supported by Cuatrecasas, a leading law firm with more than 100 years of history, Saboris, a catering company committed to healthy nutrition in educational and corporate settings, and The Pool Marbella, which provided both the venue and access to its entrepreneurial community. 

“The Pool of Talents is the infrastructure that Marbella needs to connect young talent with the real world. We have built a model that works because it is designed by students and for students, with the rigor and standards that today’s market demands,” said Carlos Bazaco Cruces, COO of The Pool of Talents, during the event. 

FIRST IN SPAIN, A BENCHMARK IN EUROPE

The Pool of Talents positions itself as the first non-profit community-based initiative of these characteristics in Spain: an ecosystem that develops young talent founded by students with an association-based structure that integrates the logic of the American business world- pitching before investors, acceleration mentorship, multi-sector exposure- within the educational environment of the Costa del Sol.

With more than 24 international schools in Marbella and a high-income community with a global profile, the city offers unique conditions for this model to scale. The founders are already working on expanding their programs for the next academic year, with new university and corporate partnerships on the horizon.

ABOUT THE POOL OF TALENTS

The Pool of Talents is an association founded in February 2024 by students Carlota Pulido and Yuval Arbel with the aim of connecting young people between the ages of 16 and 21 with real corporate experience. It operates as a non-profit organisation and collaborates with universities, international schools, and business leaders in the region to offer internships, competitions, inspirational talks, and specialised mentoring. Their mission: to prepare high-potential young people for a world that conventional education is not designed to address. 

www.thepooloftalents.com

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Marbella, 13th March 2026- Marbella will once again position itself on the international design map with the celebration of the eighth edition of Marbella Design and Art Fair, which will take place from the 19th- 29th of March in the Palacio de Ferias, Exposiciones and Congresos Adolfo Suárez. For eleven days, the event will bring together some of the most prominent names in interior design, arquitecture and contemporary art in a large exhibition route that will turn the venue into a creative hub where innovation, aesthetics and trends unite.

Established as one of the most contemporary design events in Spain, the fair will once again bring together interior designers, architects, artists and international brands, who will create temporary spaces created especially for this edition.

In total, more than fifty exhibitions will make up the route, offering an immersive experience that will allow visitors to discover the latest trends in interior design, architecture, materials, technology and art.

Visitors will be able to explore proposals ranging from residential and hotel interior design to innovative solutions for designing contemporary spaces. In addition, there will be ten spaces dedicated exclusively to product exhibitions, where various firms will present their latest collections and developments.

Guest interior designers and studios

For this new edition, Marbella Design and Art Fair will feature the participation of some of the most interesting studios and professionals that the field currently has to offer. Among the confirmed interior designers are Helena Rocha, Estudio Mariso Gallo, Estudio Nina Dubarry, Estudio Silvia Trigueros, José Arroyo, Magda Kujawa, Paralela and Welcome Design. All of which will put together exclusive spaces where they explore new ways of living by experimenting with materials, light, art and architecture.

International brands and cutting-edge design

Alongside the interior designers, the fair will feature the participation of leading international brands in design, technology and lifestyle, including Bang & Olufsen, Miele, Technogym, Cosentino, Villeroy & Boch, Natuzzi Italia, Bosch, Hästens, Kaldewei, Inalco and Iris Ceramica. There will also be numerous companies that specialize in surfaces, furniture, lighting, technological solutions and innovative materials for contemporary interior design.

Contemporary art in dialogue with design

The exhibition will be complemented by the presence of artists and contemporary galleries such as Anna Burko, Anna Westerlund, Daniel Valencia, Ronald Infante and Excellence Art Gallery. They will bring an artistic dimension to the overall experience and strengthen the dialogue between art, design and architecture, one of the defining elements of the event.

Program of activities

In addition to the exhibition, Marbella Design and Art Fair will feature a program of activities that will include openings, professional meetings and special events linked to design, architecture, and contemporary creativity.

• Thursday 19th March- 5 pm

Official opening of Marbella Design and Art Fair 2026 in the Palacio de Congresos de Marbella, with the opening of the exhibition and the presence of interior designers, participating brands, industry professionals and institutional representatives.

• Friday 20th March- 9:30 pm

Marbella Design and Art charity event at the Hotel Don Carlos, a special evening benefiting Fundatul, bringing together design professionals, collaboration companies, cultural guests and event attendees for a night dedicated to design and social commitment

• Tuesday 24th March- 2 pm

Talk on urban planning and city development, by the councillor of Urbanismo del Ayuntamiento de Marbella, José Eduardo Díaz, which will take place in the auditorium of the Fair at the Palacio de Congresos. This talk will address the urban evolution of the city and the role of design, arquitecture and territorial development planning.

A meeting point for professionals and design enthusiasts

In previous editions, Marbella Design and Art Fair has welcomed more than 16,000 visitors and brought together over 150 exhibitors, establishing itself as an essential platform for discovering trends, fostering professional collaborations and bringing contemporary design closer to the general public.

The fair is aimed at both industry professionals- architects, interior designers, real estate developers and businesses- and at lovers of design, art and architecture, who will be able to discover innovative projects and new brands in an environment that combines creativity, design and the Mediterranean lifestyle.

In this way, Marbella Design and Art Fair once again places Marbella on the international design map, transforming el Palacio de Congresos into a true meeting point for eleven days where talent, innovation and contemporary aesthetics come together.

Useful information:

Dates: from the 19th-29th March 2026

Location: Palacio de Ferias, Exposiciones y Congresos Adolfo Suárez, Marbella

• Ticket available from:

https://marbelladesignart.com/entradas/

• Fundatul charity event:

https://www.monsterticket.com/evento/marbella-design-art-fiesta-de-apertura-2026

La entrada Marbella will host from the 19th-29th of March the eighth edition of the Marbella Design and Art Fair, one of the biggest contemporary design events in Spain se publicó primero en MN Comunicación.

However, Marbella’s popularity also presents challenges. The large number of tourists, especially in summer, puts pressure on the environment. Waste is increasing and water consumption is increasing at a time when the region often suffers from drought conditions. These issues make it important for the city to think carefully about sustainability. Traffic congestion is another common problem during the high season, making it difficult for both residents and tourists to get around. In addition, traffic problems contribute to increased pollution levels, which further damages the environment.

Tourism can also affect the traditional character of Marbella. As some areas change to suit visitors’ tastes, they risk becoming overly commercial and less reflective of the local culture. Restaurants and shops may cater more to tourists than to long-standing traditions, which can gradually weaken the sense of authentic identity in certain neighborhoods.

Marbella is much more than a holiday destination: its real strength lies in the booming residential tourism sector, which has attracted families, professionals and retirees to acquire a second and even a third home. Many residents choose to spend several months a year in Marbella because it offers a unique combination of Mediterranean lifestyle, modern infrastructure and international connectivity. Families, in particular, benefit from a wide selection of prestigious international schools offering British, American, German and Scandinavian study programmes, making extended stays practical and attractive. The region’s health services, various sports facilities and year-round outdoor activities make it even more suitable for extended stays.

Connectivity is another important advantage. Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, currently the third busiest in Spain by number of passengers, offers direct flights to major European hubs and an increasing number of long-haul destinations, allowing owners to easily get around or receive visits from family and friends. Add to this Marbella’s stable climate, varied dining offerings, great sense of security, and cosmopolitan community that makes newcomers feel instantly at home, and these factors explain why so many people decide not only to visit Marbella, but to live here for much of the year.

Marbella’s appeal goes far beyond its reputation as a tourist destination, as it is also a thriving place for permanent residents and holiday home owners. The combination of dynamic tourism and residential life generates economic growth, cultural exchange and a cosmopolitan lifestyle, while posing challenges for the environment, infrastructure and the preservation of local character. Finding a balance that benefits both visitors and residents, fosters employment and community, and protects the city’s natural and cultural heritage is essential to ensure that Marbella remains a dynamic, attractive and sustainable destination for years to come.

La entrada Reasons why we love living in Marbella se publicó primero en MN Comunicación.

• Spanish buyers invested more than $650 million in residential assets in the US in 2024, with Florida, and in particular Miami, being the main destination, accounting for more than 30% of the total volume.
• American investment in the Costa del Sol reached €3,200 million in 2024, with an increase of 34% from the US, consolidating Marbella as one of the world’s leading luxury real estate destinations.
• In 2025, Marbella leads the ranking of Spanish cities with the highest volume of luxury transactions, surpassing €5,000/m² on average and reaching 82% of international buyers in transactions of more than one million euros.
• The Delmore symbolizes the strategic connection between Marbella and Miami, two luxury capitals that share investors, lifestyles, and a growing network of international real estate interests.

MARBELLA, 28th July 2025 – In a move that strengthens ties between two of the most dynamic luxury markets in the world, DAMAC International, an Emirati developer specialised in ultra-luxury residential developments, introduced its new flagship project in the US to Marbella: The Delmore, a beachfront residential tower located in Surfside (Miami), designed by the prestigious Zaha Hadid Architects studio.

The event was held on 26th July at the Finca Ana María estate of the iconic Marbella Club Hotel, where some thirty high-net-worth investors gathered, including representatives of prominent Gulf families, senior executives from leading private banking institutions, acclaimed luxury hospitality entrepreneurs, family offices, wealth management firms, and funds specialising in real estate projects. The day symbolised a new stage in the capital relationship between Europe and America in the luxury real estate sector.

The event was co-sponsored by AURÉLIEN, a luxury experiences firm that creates personalised proposals for international clients. The brand complements DAMAC’s approach to services, which range from gastronomy to art, yachting, fashion, and wellbeing, aligned with the expectations of ultra-premium buyers.

“The choice of Marbella isn’t coincidental,” adds Pedro Román Martín, local entrepreneur and event host. “There is a natural symbiosis between Marbella and Miami: exceptional weather, state-of-the-art architecture, cosmopolitan surroundings, and an international clientele with an eye for excellence and exclusivity.”

“With The Delmore, we are introducing a new paradigm of luxury—one that has never been done before. This is a residence designed exclusively for the world’s most discerning few. It is only natural that Marbella, a destination synonymous with elegance and global affluence, would be home to some of our future residents. Marbella and Miami have long shared a deep affinity—two coastal enclaves where lifestyle, architecture, and international culture converge,” said Farid Moussallem, The Delmore, Surfside Miami.

THE DELMORE: ARCHITECTURE AND LUXURY IN SURFSIDE

The Delmore project marks DAMAC’s official entry into the US residential market. It includes a 12-story tower located in the exclusive “Billionaire’s Triangle” in Surfside, with 37 homes that range between 650 m² and more than 930 m², 3-meter ceilings, and a 3-car air-conditioned private garage with each residence, plus personal butler service.

Over 5,100 square meters of life-enhancing amenities from private dining to wellness sanctuary, direct access to 60 meters of private beach, and prices that start at $15 million. The interior design is led by Hirsch Bedner & Associates, and completion is scheduled for 2029.

SPANISH INVESTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES: A RISING TIDE

Spain has become one of the main sources of European real estate investment in the US. According to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), Spanish buyers invested more than $650 million in American residential assets in 2024, with Florida being the main destination, accounting for more than 30% of these investments.

Furthermore, reports from the consulting firm Transnational Homes and the Zillow portal show that the demand from European buyers, especially Spanish buyers, has multiplied in areas such as Miami-Dade, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach between 2022 and 2024.

US INVESTMENT IN MARBELLA AND MÁLAGA, AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH

On the flip side, US investors are raising their presence in the Costa del Sol with a total investment in the “Golden Triangle” – Marbella, Estepona, and Benahavís – exceeding €3,200 million in 2024, an increase of 20% from 2023. Capital from the US increased by 34%, consolidating the US as one of the most important source markets, behind only the UK and Germany.

According to Knight Frank (The Wealth Report 2025), Marbella is the Spanish city with the highest percentage of international buyers in the luxury sector, with 82% of transactions over one million euros made by foreigners, and with Americans now in the top five purchasing countries.

The arrival of DAMAC reinforces Marbella’s position as the European epicentre for the commercialisation of large international developments. During the summer months, the city attracts a large proportion of global investment in luxury real estate, thanks to its connectivity, reputation, and commercial ecosystem.

According to Idealista Data (2025), Marbella leads the ranking of Spanish cities with the highest volume of luxury residential transactions, and in 2025 has surpassed the average price of €5,000/m², with historic records in areas such as Sierra Blanca, La Zagaleta, and the Golden Mile.

ABOUT DAMAC INTERNATIONAL

DAMAC is one of the world’s leading real estate developers, headquartered in Dubai with iconic projects in the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Jordan, and now the United States. It has delivered more than 44,000 luxury residential units and maintains an active portfolio with more than 35,000 houses under development. Its arrival in Miami symbolises a new era for the group.

La entrada DAMAC INTERNATIONAL ARRIVES IN MARBELLA PRESENTING ITS FLAGSHIP DEVELOPMENT ‘THE DELMORE’ IN MIAMI SURFSIDE se publicó primero en MN Comunicación.

The shopping centre reinforces its role as a multicultural meeting point with a new visual identity and business ecosystem with businesses from more than 20 sectors.

28% of the businesses in Centro Plaza are of Nordic origin, reflecting the consolidation of Northern Europe as a key player in the fabric of Marbella´s trade.

Marbella, 10th June 2025 – Centro Plaza celebrates its 35th anniversary as one of the social and economic powers of Nueva Andalusia. Established in 1990 as the first shopping centre in the area, it was a pioneer in combining leisure, retail and office spaces in a cosmopolitan and open environment, anticipating the needs of a destination now known as the “California of Southern Europe”.

The centre has more than 120 establishments from 21 different sectors, an occupancy rate of 98% and a business ecosystem with a strong international presence, where 28% of the businesses are of Nordic origin.

A history linked to the transformation of Marbella

Founded by Alfonso Fernandéz and Alberto Vidiella, Centro Plaza emerged as a response to the lack of businesses and services in an upmarket residential area, known as “Golf Valley”. From then on, it has been a part of the development of Nueva Andalusia and one of the symbols of the so-called “Marbella quality seal”, with open and luminous architecture by Javier Banús, designed as a “plaza overlooking the sea”.

These days it´s the fourth most characteristic shopping centre of its kind in the Málaga province and a living example of how commercial spaces can generate community, identity and economic development.

New image for a new chapter

“The 35th anniversary marks the start of a new chapter: the centre has renewed its corporate identity, transforming its iconic red “P” into a silhouette of its view and its circular border into a dot representing that the centre is an ideal meeting point for socialising, business or simply just to have a good time. This new image reinforces its spirit of being a connecting space for professionals, residents and visitors from all over the world”, explains Carlos García Perujo, manager of the Centro Plaza shopping centre.

“This anniversary is a celebration and a commitment to our community. Centro Plaza has grown alongside Nueva Andalusia and now we are preparing for the future with a more modern image, but one that is true to our essence: to be an open, human, dynamic and multicultural space”, highlights García Perujo.

Furthermore, as part of its roadmap to a new chapter, the first stage of Centro Plaza´s ambitious and extensive refurbishment will be launched this winter. The project includes a stark transformation of its entries, communal areas and general aesthetics, with the aim of modernising visitor experience and adapting the centre to comply with new standards of sustainability, accessibility and efficiency. This renovation aims to reinforce the centre´s role as an open and comfortable meeting spot for all audiences, and aligns with the natural evolution of a shopping centre that has been able to anticipate the needs of its environment. The project will preserve the original architectural essence of the Plaza, but will upgrade it with more sustainable materials and technical solutions, ensuring its continuity and success for the future.

An economic driving force and a multicultural platform

Centro Plaza has established itself as a true local economic and logistical hub. From its offices, various asset management companies and real estate agencies, operations across the Costa del Sol are boosted, generating direct and indirect employment through the recruitment of local professionals from a variety of sectors.

Its diversity of sectors, which ranges from a supermarket to law firms, a bank, a notary, gyms, fashion, technology or international restaurants, supports the centre´s multicultural character, reflecting Marbella´s global ecosystem, where businesses and clients from all over Europe coexist, with a particular presence of Nordic and Western European countries.

In addition, in the past few years, Centro Plaza has reinforced its role as an active promoter of social and economic development in Marbella by means of its solid Corporate Social Responsability (CSR) strategy. Through collaborations with local organisations, support for cultural and sporting events, and actions focused on sustainability and inclusivity, the centre has strengthened a trusting relationship with its clientele. This working philosophy is based on principles of mutual support, transparency and respect, and has been key in maintaining stable activity and a cohesive business community.

“Today Centro Plaza looks to the future with a clear roadmap, based on three fundamental pillars: renovation, sustainability and community, in order to continue being a reference point in the heart of Nueva Andalusia”, concludes the manager of the shopping centre.

A local emblem: the Saturday market

One of the most emblematic elements of Centro Plaza is its role as a host to the famous Puerto Banús street market every Saturday. This weekly event transforms the centre into a hive of activity with craft stalls, antiques and unique pieces, which are integrated with its terraces, shops and cafes, creating a vibrant experience where commerce, gastronomy and social life fuse together.

www.centroplaza.es

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La entrada The Sky se publicó primero en MN Comunicación.

Marbella, 20th of May 2025- Marbella is solidly positioning itself in the international ultra-luxury tourism market, attracting a global clientele with extremely high purchasing power who, until recently, prioritised destinations such as Ibiza, the French Riviera or the Greek islands. The first signs of exhaustion in these enclaves, marked by overcrowding, have opened a window of opportunity that Marbella is taking advantage of with intelligence, elegance, and a highly personalised tourism model. An example of this new paradigm is Marbella Mountain Resorts, a leading firm in the rental of luxury villas internationally.

With a portfolio of around 30 properties located in areas such as Sierra Blanca, Benahavís, Marbella Club and La Zagaleta, the group aspires to offer a kind of “European Beverly Hills” in these areas. This is explained by its founding CEO, Luis Ponce, who emphasises that “Marbella has everything to become the world’s leading luxury destination climate, privacy, connectivity, cultural and gastronomic offerings but, above all, space, versatility and quality of life”.

“At Marbella Mountain Resorts we have observed a very significant change in recent years: clients who traditionally chose destinations such as Ibiza, French Riviera or certain Greek islands for their vacations are now opting for Marbella. Many of them are looking for something different: less overcrowding, more privacy, a well-kept natural environment and, above all, a much more personalised luxury offering”, he notes. “Here they find exceptional villas, tailored services, and impeccable attention that allows them to live unique experiences without giving up the comfort or lifestyle they’re accustomed to. Marbella has managed to take a qualitative leap that the international market is recognising, beyond the European recognition it has had for decades”, Ponce points out.

Far from being simply high-end accommodation, the concept of renting luxury villas in Marbella that Marbella Mountain Resorts champions to offer a transformative experience, far removed from routine and the “home away from home”. “Our clients don’t want to feel at home, they want something better than their home”, Ponce emphasises. “We serve our guests at a very particular moment in their lives, during their vacation. Customer Experience is not a marketing concept: it is a promise and an emotional responsibility. It is not simply about commercial transactions, but about building meaningful relationships and generating a positive impact on their lives”, he adds.

“Perhaps you feel like being a different person for a few days and renting a different luxury villa in Marbella, very striking, ultra-modern, or perhaps something more traditional, something you might never buy, but you want to experience for a few days,” he explains. “In short, breaking away from your daily routine and experiencing something extraordinary, even being someone else”, explains the head of Marbella Mountain Resorts.

Exclusive Experiences

“Designing exclusive experiences is vital to surprise our clients without forgetting, of course, the cornerstone of this model: the best product with the best service, he reflects. “Among the immersive and sustainable luxury experiences we offer, initiatives standout such as: visiting the local market with a private chef to select fresh ingredients, participating in a fishing trip to capture the weekly menu, attending tastings at local wineries, preparing sunset cocktails with a professional mixologist, or learning traditional recipes such as paella from a local chef. All designed to connect with the essence of the place, live like a resident, and leave a positive emotional mark”, lists the founding CEO of Marbella Mountain Resorts.

A proposal that has managed to extend the average stay, going from one week to between 10 and 12 months, and it is not uncommon to find guests who stay up to two months before continuing their journey in Dubai or the Maldives, with prices that can reach 18,000 euros per night. “For longer stays, guests who choose to rent luxury villas in Marbella can integrate even further into the local lifestyle through immersive experiences”, says Ponce.

Customer profile

The profile of Marbella Mountain Resorts’ clients is diverse but demanding. They range from retired American CEOs seeking tranquillity with their family to millennial founders of tech startups who prioritise design, home automation, art and sustainability. “The millennial client is the biggest spender”, he points out. “They look for the best: the best villa, the best restaurants, the best personalised experience”, the company manager emphasises.

One of the most notable trends in recent years has been the rise of the new form of luxury, one that’s more conscious and respectful of the environment. “Recently, a family staying in a villa with horses asked us to allow their children to clean the stables first thing in the morning, making them responsible for their surroundings”, says Ponce. “Similarly, they also ask us for activities related to personal development, such as yoga classes every morning and experiences that involve them with the local environment”, explains the founding CEO of Marbella Mountain Resorts. A new way of understanding tourism. “These are clear signs that something is changing”, he says.

Owners who are committed to sharing and optimising their assets

The success of this luxury villa rental model in Marbella would not be possible without the collaboration of the owners. More and more residents are deciding to make their properties available selectively and temporarily under the comprehensive management of Marbella Mountain Resorts. “These are two types of owners: those who want to make their investment profitable and those who, driven by a more sustainable vision, prefer their home not be closed when not in use. They share their home with people who value it in the broadest sense”, explains Ponce.

Management is carried out with criteria of high operational efficiency, discretion and innovative technology applied to all processes. “Our challenge is to apply cutting-edge technology to a sector where the standard is extremely high and where every detail counts. However, we firmly believe that innovation and sustainability are the pillars of the new luxury”.

Marbella Mountain Resorts has detected clear growth in emerging markets such as the Middle East, India and the United States, whose elites are beginning to see Marbella as an ideal destination for extended vacations with villas valued between 10 and 20 million euros and an annual occupancy rate of around 40%, well above the norm in this exclusive segment.

Luis Ponce is clear: “The future of ultra-luxury tourism is not about having more, but about offering better. Marbella must not fall into the trap of overcrowding. It must learn from other destinations that are showing signs of exhaustion and commit to sustainable, responsible and highly qualitative growth. That is our commitment and our roadmap”.

www.marbellamountainresorts.com

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• 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. 

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Marbella 13th of March 2025– In the heart of Puerto Banús, where luxury and haute cuisine come together, El Gaucho de Banús opens the season with a revamped menu that pays homage to Argentine tradition and culinary excellence. The new offering features a selection of certified meats, internationally recognised for their exceptional quality, and a wine cellar that includes some of the most acclaimed labels on the global wine scene.

From its iconic grill, El Gaucho de Banús offers prestigious cuts such as Black Angus from Kansas, Aberdeen Angus from Ireland and Black Ranch from Argentina. Added to this offering is the exquisite Wagyu beef in its most coveted varieties: the certified Australian, the famous Japanese Kobe and the exclusive Spanish Santa Rosalía. The Rubia Gallega, a symbol of the Iberian cattle-raising tradition, also occupies a prominent place on the restaurant’s menu.

The distinction of these cuts is no coincidence. The meat served at El Gaucho de Banús has been awarded in competitions such as the World Steak Challenge, where it has received the prestigious Prime Certificate in various editions. In addition, some of its products have been recognised in the demanding Great Taste Awards, consolidating the restaurant as a benchmark in haute meat cuisine.

At El Gaucho de Banús, you can enjoy delicacies such as the Wagyu Kobe, considered one of the most exclusive cuts in the world. Other premium options include the Chateaubriand, the national Wagyu sirloin and the Kansas Black Angus top sirloin.

To match these delicacies, the restaurant’s wine list has been carefully selected with labels that have obtained the highest ratings on the Parker scale and in other renowned international competitions. Among the most distinguished wines are the Valduero 1 Cepa Premium (Tempranillo, D.O. Ribera del Duero), with a score of 99 points, the NIC RES. (Tempranillo, D.O. Ribera del Duero), with 97 points, and the Vivaltus 2018 (Tempranillo, D.O. Ribera del Duero), which achieves 95 Parker points.

For Humberto Gacioppo, founder of the restaurant, this new season represents much more than the continuation of a gastronomic project: “For me, El Gaucho de Banús, is an opportunity to express my pride in being Argentinian, in having built, with sacrifice, a European benchmark for meat and authentic Argentine cuisine; to honour our traditions and offer an experience that has made our restaurant the best Argentine restaurant in Malaga and, why not, in Andalusia”.

About the Guacho group

Beyond its iconic grill, El Gaucho de Banús is part of a gastronomic group steeped in family history and is constantly evolving. Founded in 2014, the Gaucho group has expanded its culinary offering with two additional establishments in Puerto Banús. PiCú Seafood is its commitment to excellence in seafood and fish, with a menu that stands out for the quality of its lobster, seafood paella and cuts of lamb and Angus. On the other hand, Lalala Puerto Banús is positioned as a lounge-bar with an exceptional terrace overlooking the port where cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine combine to offer a sophisticated experience.

With a team of more than 120 professionals, the Gaucho group continues its growth by focusing on quality and innovation in each of its culinary concepts, turning its restaurants into benchmark destinations in Puerto Banús.

This new season, El Gaucho de Banús reaffirms its position as one of Costa del Sol’s leading gastronomic destinations, where meat and wine reach their peak in an incomparable setting.

For more information: https://www.grupogaucho.es/

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