When it comes to luxury, Malaga isn’t the first Spanish holiday resort that springs to mind, but this up-and-coming city has so much going for it there’s something for everyone. And that includes those looking for a luxury holiday experience.
Dine under Michelin stars
Jose Carlos García boasts two Michelin stars (the only ones currently in Malaga) and you can taste why at his sleek restaurant on Muelle Uno whose quiet terrace sits next to a 16th century chapel and overlooks the yachts in the port.
Known simply as Restaurante JCG, this is home to some of the finest cuisine in southern Spain where two tasting menus (14 or 20 courses) combine the very best of Spanish tradition with the latest in modern gastronomy. With just six tables at each sitting, this is intimate dining at its very best.
A room with a Malaga view
The Gibralfaro Parador isn’t classed as 5-star standard, but there’s one room in this iconic Malaga hotel where the views can only be described as luxury. Perched on the Gibralfaro Castle hill, the hotel already has an amazing vista of the city but book the Picasso room (No 403) and an even better vantage point is yours for the night.
On the fourth floor, this generous suite is about as high as you can stay in Malaga and the private terrace that doubles as a solarium gives you an almost bird’s eye view of the city below. Make this an extra luxurious experience and dine on the Parador terrace on the very best in the à la carte menu.
An exclusive walking tour
One of the best ways to discover a city’s secrets is to take a walking tour with a local in the know. In Malaga, you can make this discovery a unique experience with a tailor-made tour designed just for you. We Love Malaga run personalised tours round Malaga, highlighting the best places to see while giving you an insight into the city’s history. Stop-offs include the best places in Malaga for tapas depending on your food preferences. From €95 per person.
City-centre luxury
The latest in cutting-edge design and comfort come together in Posada del Patio Hotel, a historic building whose roots start at the Roman ruins in the basement. Everything about this 5-star hotel exudes luxury from the impeccable service to the rooftop solarium complete with pool. Book one of the 2-storey suites for the ultimate Malaga hotel experience.
Lie back and relax
At this Moorish-style Hammam with richly decorated steam and massage rooms, three pools and relaxation area you can step back in time to the Nazari era and treat yourself to some seriously luxurious me-time. After your soak in the baths, sink into even deeper wellbeing with a traditional Kessa treatment followed by a relaxing massage with essential oils.
Creative cuisine on the seafront
Tipped as a top candidate for the city’s next Michelin star, El Tres sits right on the seafront and this frontline beach position together with the intimate space lit by chandeliers and candles makes it one of the most romantic venues in town. Chef Rosa Serrano crafts traditional Spanish cuisine into new gourmet experiences, showcased in two tasting menus (both include wine) as well as an à la carte menu.
Sail away
Where better to see Malaga than from your own catamaran as you cruise the calm waters in Malaga Bay? Charter a Nautitech 395 Pro for yourself and perhaps a few friends, and sail off into the Mediterranean to admire the Malaga coastline and maybe glimpse one of the resident pods of dolphins. Food and drink isn’t included in the price so pop along to the Gourmet Experience on the top floor of El Corte Inglés department store to stock up on the best champagne and Spanish Iberian cured ham.
By Joanna Styles
Joanna Styles is a writer based in Malaga specializing in everything Spain has to offer. Using her local knowledge she has created the new travel Guide to Malaga. You can follow her on Twitter.
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