Kempinski Hotel Bahia Marbella: A hotel review

With three outdoor swimming pools, award-winning tropical gardens, a newly renovated spa and impressive restaurants, Kempinski Hotel Bahia Marbella is a luxurious one-stop shop on Costa Del Sol perfect for a relaxing, comfortable and enjoyable holiday. 

Kempinski Hotel Bahia Marbella is a 5-minute drive from the centre of Estepona, the world-famous Marbella can be reached in 20 minutes by car, and Malaga Airport is 73 km away. The location puts the resort only two hours away from most Andalusian cities, and is just a short ferry ride away from Tangier, Morocco, for those looking to explore the area further. Tucked away next to the A7 highway, the large 5-star resort enjoys a privileged position right by the golden beach with beautiful views of the azure Mediterranean Sea.

Once entering the grand entrance leading to an impressive lobby (with 24-hour concierge service) overlooking the sea, a feeling of tranquillity immediately hits. Surrounded by luscious subtropical gardens, and three outdoor swimming pools, the resort is a beautiful oasis offering plenty of space to roam.

The resort was built in 1999, designed by one of the most reputed architects on the Costa del Sol Mr Melvin Villarroel and has 128 spacious rooms and 17 luxury suites, a newly renovated spa on nearly 1,000 sqm. The large and well-manicured garden surrounding the pool area, the beach restaurant and the resort, has received the  “Best Garden” award. And regardless of what time of the year the lush and green area is just as beautiful.

The Rooms

Guests can choose from 128 spacious rooms and 17 luxury suites ranging between 45sqm to 461sqm. The Grand Mediterranean Room on the 7th floor features a stunning view of the entire Marbella Bay from the private balcony. The terrace chairs come with plush seats making it the perfect spot to enjoy an early morning coffee (from the room’s Nespresso machine) and watch the sunrise. The room has a spacious marble bathroom with a separate shower and a large bathtub and amenities from Salvatore Ferragamo, fluffy towels, slippers and bathrobes. A lovely surprise is the fruit basket generously filled with local fresh fruits.

Restaurants & Bars

The resort features three restaurants; Spiler Beach Club, El Mirador Restaurant, and Baltazar Bar & Grill (read the full review here). Guests can also enjoy drinks at the Black Rose The Bar Concept and Spiler Pool Bar.

Breakfast is served daily at El Mirador located on the second floor overlooking the sea and is a hotel breakfast at its best and a fantastic way to start the day. There are both inside and outdoor seating options. Sitting outside offers a stunning view and the terrace is open all year round this is also where the coffee station with the espresso machine is set up. The buffet which is spread across several different stations is comprehensive including eggs made to order, fresh local fruits and various yoghurts, cold and warm dishes, and fresh bread and pastries. There’s even an Andalucian section with local produce such as Manchego cheese and local jamon (ham).

The tomato and onion omelette is made to perfection and the selection of herbal teas is great.

Spiler Beach Club

Spiler Beach Club is a new cool casual beach restaurant and bar located right next to the beach serving up all-day dining including artisan pizzas, daily fresh fish, and mouth-watering starters followed by soups, salads, pasta, charcoal grilled meat and Andalucian local dishes. The outdoor seating area offers spectacular views and is the perfect spot to enjoy a long relaxing weekend lunch whilst overlooking the sandy beach and palm trees. The tuna tartar with truffle dressing and coriander is fantastic and so is the octopus takoyaki and the beef tenderloin served with mashed potatoes, french beans and tamarind jus. For ‘postres’ (pudding) it’s difficult to resist the ‘tarta datiles y toffee’ and the homemade tiramisu with amaretto.

The atmosphere is stylish and modern yet laid-back. The service is outstanding the location superb. It’s a hidden gem right by the beach.

Who is Kempinski Hotel Bahia Marbella for?

Although the resort is large, it doesn’t feel overwhelming instead it offers an intimate feel and offers something for every age group.  With the Kids Club (aged 4-12), and the many facilities, the hotel is great for families who are looking for a holiday in the sun and for multi-generational holidays and special celebrations. The area also boasts many world-famous golf courses, making Kempinski Bahia a popular choice for golf enthusiasts.

For more information and bookings visit https://www.kempinski.com/en/hotel-bahia