Luxury Costa del Sol Holidays

The sunshine coast of Spain is a haven of stunning beaches, spirited towns and authentic villages, overlooked by the dramatic peaks of the Sierra Nevada. This Andalusian coastline is world-famous for good reason, and you'll find plenty of ways to carve out your own perfect holiday in this radiant Spanish locale.

With a coast more than 500 miles long and 3,000 sunshine hours per year, the Costa del Sol boasts the perfect conditions for many holidaymakers. The swathes of golden sands are a key attraction for many, and if you love days at the beach, water sports and relaxing at waterfront restaurants, you will be in heaven here. Yet there is more to this part of the world than beach life alone. The Andalucía coastline is also home to luxury-filled marinas and quiet coastal paths, vibrant towns and traditional villages in the hills, family-focused theme parks and intimate tapas bars. From palm trees lining the beaches, to snow-capped mountains in the near distance, the scenery never fails to astonish either.

Wherever you decide to stay on this sun-drenched coast, you will find something a little exceptional. With grand beach front properties and sumptuous retreats where you'll be surrounded by the globe's jet set crowd, there are plenty of options where luxury is available on tap. If you're travelling as a family, you'll have your pick of hotels that offer all the extras that make family holidays shine, while couples looking for a retreat will find it in tucked away corners of the main resorts, or in local beguiling villages.

One of the most famous spots in the Costa del Sol is Marbella, known for its waterfront eateries, lavish beach clubs and glamorous atmosphere. You'll want to visit Marbella if you don't stay there to discover both its famed beach life and the postcard-perfect charm of the Old Town. Neighbouring Puerto Banus is home to one of the most pristine marinas in the world too. Elsewhere along the Andalucía coastline you'll find Estepona, with its history-filled streets and traditional Spanish charm mingling perfectly with tranquil days by the beach. Nerja is incredible for its time-honoured village feeling and Insta-worthy views, while Malaga itself is a fascinating city to explore, infused with art, culture and Michelin star restaurants.

Your trip to the Costa del Sol can be anything you want it to be. Make the most of the twinkling waters by embarking on boat trip adventures, or trying your hand at a whole raft of different water sports. Visit old fortresses and museums that make the history of this region unfold before your eyes. Take the children to splash parks and animal encounters. Hire a car and potter along the coastline or in the hills behind. And go on a culinary adventure every day, making the most of tapas and fresh fish, low key neighbourhood restaurants and impeccable fine dining establishments. Every day on the Andalucía coastline is a feelgood one.

When to visit
Known for its sunny weather year-round, the Costa del Sol is a good place to visit any time of the year. Even during the coolest months the temperature rarely dips below 15 degrees Celsius.