Marbella's history; from a small village to Europe's No. 1 destination

The history of Marbella would have developed very differently if it were not for the visionary Marquis Ricardo Soriano. This charismatic aristocrat was so enchanted by the idea of an idyllic place bathed in sunshine that he bought a property there without seeing it first. In 1946, he persuaded his cousin, Prince Maximilian, to discover the beauty of the Mediterranean himself. A year later, the prince's son, Alfonso, arrived with the aim of preparing a summer retreat for the family.

Alfonso, however, did not only dream of a seasonal residence for his family. Inspired by motels in the USA, this enterprising prince turned the property into a hotel. The Marbella Club opened its doors to its first guests in 1954, offering twenty rooms, a cosy dining room and a bar. In 1957, the Prince appointed his cousin, the experienced Count Rudi, as assistant manager with the clear task of transforming the Marbella Club into an exclusive destination for the elite. Soon the hotel became a popular retreat for royalty, royal families and stars such as Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot. With the opening of the Puerto Banús port in 1970, Marbella was definitively ranked among the world's prestigious destinations.

Today, the Marbella Club is synonymous with luxury and relaxation. With its relaxed atmosphere and excellent service, it remains a favourite destination for the rich and famous. Locals seek it out for its golf and tennis courses, as well as its excellent spa and restaurants. The hotel is not only open to its guests - its beach, boutiques and restaurants are also accessible to those who are not staying here. The Marbella Club remains the ideal place for an extraordinary Mediterranean holiday and a showcase for a timeless blend of elegance and hospitality.