Picture this: rolling green hills, glistening pools, a palatial hotel nestled amid the mountains just minutes from Marbella’s beaches. This was my experience at the Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, a Mediterranean marvel where luxury and relaxation go hand in hand– and where a crisp white wine tastes better than ever. Though at first glance you might think the hotel is targeted at golfers with a large budget (and this is certainly true), it offers so much more than lush green grounds. The hotel has one of the very best– and most expansive– spas I’ve ever experienced in Europe, making it ideal for a girls’ weekend away to celebrate a special birthday. Plus with plenty of on-site restaurant choices, including one that reminded me of a location from the Romeo and Juliet movie, you could check in for a long weekend and not even feel the need to leave. Here’s what you need to know and how to book… The Rooms
Talk about a room with a view
(Image: Anantara)
From the moment I entered, I was in awe of the room’s aesthetic. Imagine a blend of Spanish and Tuscan influences, with an old-world charm that transports you to a different era. My room was both chic and cosy, with a private terrace overlooking the sprawling golf course. It felt almost cinematic, especially in the mornings when the sunlight streamed in just right. I checked out a few of the other room options, and they were all gorgeous, but hands down, the best one was a standalone villa called Villa Obama. It once housed Michelle Obama when she stayed there a few years ago. That particular villa is the very definition of presidential luxury. The hotel offers a variety of options from deluxe rooms to opulent villas with private pools, so whether you’re after an intimate getaway or a grand celebration, there’s a room to match. The decor? Think of rich colours, plush furniture, and gorgeous art pieces that create a sense of timelessness. And let’s not forget the bathroom! With marble floors, a giant soaking tub and luxurious toiletries, it was practically a spa on its own. In fact, when I first walked into my room, I thought it was one. Food and drink
The hotel has multiple dining spots on-site, each with its own vibe and cuisine
(Image: Anantara)
When I go away food is half the experience—and Anantara Villa Padierna did not disappoint. They have multiple dining spots on-site, each with its own vibe and cuisine. I stayed for two nights and got to try a delicious set menu at La Veranda, which boasts luxurious Mediterranean dishes. The second night I sampled incredible cuisine thanks to a designer dining experience in one of the hotel’s function rooms. If you’ve got a special occasion coming up and you want your own space and menu, I can highly recommend it. For breakfast, there’s an extensive buffet that ranges from fresh fruits and pastries to custom omelettes and smoothies. It was hard not to linger every morning with a coffee in hand, watching the early sunlight warm up the landscape. And for a little evening indulgence, Eddy’s Bar offers a mix of classic and modern cocktails with a cosy, relaxed atmosphere. I’m still dreaming of the signature cocktails and tapas pairings. Hotel amenities
The spa spans 2,000 square meters and has every kind of sauna and steam room you could want
(Image: Anantara)
Whether you’re into wellness or just want to lounge with a cocktail, the grounds have it all.
(Image: Anantara)
One of the best things about staying at Villa Padierna is how much there is to do right on the property (ideal for me since I like to relax). The hotel has three gorgeous golf courses, a perk for any golf lover. I’m no pro, but even I was tempted to take a swing with those views. Then there’s the spa—spanning 2,000 square meters, it’s one of the largest spas I’ve seen. I treated myself to a massage and spent some time in their Roman baths, and I walked out feeling like a new person. Between the yoga sessions, wellness treatments, and personal training available, this place has relaxation covered – perfect for checking in with your girlfriends. The pools were another highlight for me. There are several dotted around the property, each more picturesque than the last. My favourite was a heated outdoor pool with views of the mountains—a perfect spot to unwind and take in the Andalusian landscape. Since the weather was a very hot 32C when I went in mid October, the outside pools get plenty of use year-round. Whether you’re into wellness or just want to lounge with a cocktail, the grounds have it all. Out and about Beyond the hotel, there’s plenty to explore nearby. Marbella and Puerto Banús are a short drive away, perfect for an afternoon of shopping, strolling and people-watching along the marina. The hotel also offers shuttle services, which is super convenient. The Anantara team helped me arrange a tour of the local vineyards for an Extra Virgin Olive Oil Experience. I also got to test out The Life of a Spanish Horse Experience, where I got up close to Andalusian horses and got to see the ranch where they live. I even managed to squeeze in a day trip to Ronda. If you haven’t heard of it, Ronda is a historic town set atop dramatic cliffs—a must-see if you’re in the area. Every day brought something new, and it was wonderful having a mix of relaxation at the resort and adventure in the surrounding region. My top tip: book one of the local guides to show you around and tell you about the history. How to book If you’re looking to splurge on a memorable getaway, this resort should definitely be on your list. Room rates start at around €300 per room per night including breakfast. Ready to treat yourself to a slice of Andalusian paradise? You can book directly on their website here. And trust me, you’ll want to secure a room with a view—you won’t regret it! Story SavedYou can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.
