91果冻

The Golden Mile Marbella Area Guide

27th Sep 2024 路 by Miah van de Bilt 路 26 min. read

Join us as we explore the Marbella Golden Mile, one of the most sought-after luxury residential areas in Marbella and one of the most glamorous destinations in Europe. We'll delve into its rich history, prime location, and the unique appeal that sets it apart. We'll discuss property costs, architectural styles, and the lifestyle amenities available to residents and guests. Whether you're considering investing in property or simply curious about this legendary area, our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Golden Mile.

• Table of contents
• The Golden Mile: Marbella's Iconic Luxury Property & Exclusive Costa del Sol Living
• What is the Golden Mile in Marbella?
• Where is the Golden Mile located?
• How large is the Golden Mile?
• What is the history of the Golden Mile?
• Who Gave the Golden Mile its Name?
• What makes the Golden Mile appealing?
• What types of properties are available on the Golden Mile?
• What architectural styles are found on the Golden Mile?
• What is the cost of buying a property on the Golden Mile?
• Who buys property on the Golden Mile?
• Which Iconic Brands Choose the Golden Mile for Their New Developments?
• Is Marbella鈥檚 Golden Mile Environmentally Friendly?
• Are there investment opportunities on the Golden Mile?
• How is the current real estate market on the Golden Mile?
• What can you do on Marbella's Golden Mile?
• What is life like for families on the Golden Mile?
• Are there schools near the Golden Mile?
• Are healthcare facilities nearby?
• Are there good restaurants on the Golden Mile?
• What is the nightlife like on the Golden Mile?
• Are There Good Golf Courses Close to the Golden Mile?
• What are the best gated communities on the Golden Mile?
• How much have property prices increased on the Golden Mile over the last decade?
• Is 91果冻 Office Located on the Golden Mile?

The Golden Mile is an iconic stretch in Marbella, Spain, synonymous with luxury, exclusivity, and sophistication. The name itself indicates the prestige this area holds. Known for its opulent properties, five-star resorts, and world-class amenities, the Golden Mile has earned an esteemed reputation as one of the most coveted residential areas on the Costa del Sol. Its origins date back to the 1950s, and over the decades, it has evolved into a symbol of wealth and high-end living, attracting international elites, celebrities, and royalty alike.

The Golden Mile is located on the southern coast of Marbella, a town on Spain鈥檚 renowned Costa del Sol. It stretches between the western edge of Marbella's town center and the luxury marina of Puerto Ban煤s, offering picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea to the south and the Sierra Blanca mountains to the north. This prime location makes it one of the most desirable addresses in Europe, blending natural beauty with exceptional accessibility to Marbella鈥檚 urban center and nearby attractions.

See where the Golden Mile is located on the map

• 5-minute drive to Marbella Town Center
• 10-minute drive to Puerto Ban煤s
• 45-minute drive to M谩laga Airport
• 1-hour drive to Gibraltar Airport

With the sparkling Mediterranean in front and dramatic Andalusian mountains behind, the Golden Mile spans approximately 5 kilometres (around 3 miles) along Marbella鈥檚 coastline. This exclusive stretch is divided into two parts: the beachside area, where many of the luxurious resorts, hotels, and beachfront villas are located, and the mountainside area, which is home to the high-end residential communities and lavish estates nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Blanca mountains. The Golden Mile鈥檚 compact size ensures privacy and exclusivity while offering easy access to Marbella鈥檚 best attractions.

The Golden Mile began its transformation into a luxurious destination in the 1950s, when founded the . A few years earlier, on the way to Sevilla, the young Spanish-German aristocrat had a picnic lunch under the pines close to the Finca Santa Margarita - and a vision was born. Enchanted by the natural beauty, he saw potential in the quiet fishing village, bought the land, and opened a small lodge-style hotel for his friends. This event marked the start of the area鈥檚 rise to prominence, attracting cr猫me de la cr猫me of the society. The European aristocracy and Hollywood stars exchanged the French C么te d'Azur for the Spanish Costa del Sol. 


The Marbella Club Hotel became a playground for the rich and famous. Many stars used to stay there: , Ava Gardner, Sophia Loren, , Brigitte Bardot, , Omar Sharif, Liza Minelli, etc. Deborah Kerr, Audrey Hepburn and Sean Connery became regular visitors, and ended up as the part-time residents and homeowners in Marbella. With such residents as the Rothschilds, Thyssen-Bornemisza, Goldsmiths, von Bismarcks and de Mora y Arag贸ns, the Golden Mile was soon established as one of the most prestigious addresses in Europe.

Over the decades, the Golden Mile has developed into a premier residential area and an international elite destination without losing its heritage of glamour and exclusivity. Today, it boasts a blend of historic charm and modern luxury, making it one of the most desirable locations for both visitors and property buyers.

Interested in learning more about Marbella鈥檚 fascinating history? Dive deeper into the city's rich past by reading our blog post.

In the early 1980s, Roy Boston, the German singer famous for his hits Espa帽a Ol茅 and La Parranda, invented the informal name 鈥楲a Milla de Oro鈥�. The musician turned successful property developer and created the award-winning Alhambra del Mar project. Roy Boston died in the late 1980s. Unusually for a foreigner in Spain, a street is named after him in Marbella, the Calle Roy Boston, and a road near his development Alhambra del Mar bears his name.

Originally, "Golden Mile" referred to the stretch along the N-340 road from Marbella to Puerto Ban煤s, home to the Saudi Royal summer palace and iconic hotels like Marbella Club, Don Pepe, and Puente Romano. Over time, the term has come to encompass the exclusive hillside areas of Roc铆o de Nag眉eles, Sierra Blanca, and Cascada de Camoj谩n, now considered some of the most prestigious addresses in Marbella.

• Prime Location: Its close proximity to Marbella鈥檚 town center and Puerto Ban煤s makes the Golden Mile a top choice for those seeking luxury beachfront properties in Marbella and an unparalleled Costa del Sol lifestyle.
• Year-Round Sunshine: With over 320 days of sunshine per year, Marbella鈥檚 climate is considered the best in continental Europe, making the Golden Mile a popular year-round destination for those seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle.
• Luxury Amenities: From Michelin-starred restaurants and high-end boutiques to elite beach clubs like the ones in the Marbella Club Hotel and Puente Romano Beach Resort, the Golden Mile offers top-notch amenities that cater to discerning tastes.
• Natural Beauty: The Golden Mile鈥檚 proximity to the beach, with vistas to the Mediterranean, Gibraltar and African coast, as well as its views of the Sierra Blanca Mountains and majestic La Concha, provide an unmatched backdrop, combining nature鈥檚 splendour with urban convenience.
• International community: Living on Marbella鈥檚 Golden Mile means becoming part of a prestigious international community. This area attracts a diverse range of residents, which includes celebrities, Spanish and European aristocrats, business moguls, and influential personalities. 
• High Investment Potential: The Golden Mile鈥檚 prestige and popularity mean that property values remain robust, making this area an attractive option for a sound investment with high returns and long-term growth.

The Golden Mile offers a diverse range of luxurious properties that appeal to affluent buyers:

• Beachfront Villas: Some of the most exclusive properties are situated directly on the beach, offering panoramic sea views, private access to the shore, and expansive gardens.
• Luxury Apartments: Many high-end apartment complexes are available along the Golden Mile, featuring modern designs, spacious interiors, and top-tier amenities like swimming pools, gyms, and 24-hour security.
• Penthouse Suites: For those seeking unparalleled views and luxury, penthouse apartments provide expansive terraces, often with private pools, offering a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living.
• Gated Communities: The mountainside of the Golden Mile is home to exclusive gated communities such as Sierra Blanca and Cascada de Camoj谩n, known for their privacy, security, and stunning estates with lush gardens and top-of-the-line facilities.
• Resort Properties: For those looking for a blend of hotel-like services and the comforts of home, properties within luxury resorts such as the Marbella Club and Puente Romano offer villa-style accommodations with access to resort amenities like spas, restaurants, and beach clubs.

The Golden Mile is renowned for its diverse range of architectural styles, reflecting the area's luxurious appeal. Internationally renowned architects have left their mark on the Golden Mile, shaping its real estate landscape. Historically, the predominant style has been Mediterranean, characterized by whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs, archways, and white or warm, earthy color palettes. This design aesthetic is reminiscent of Andalusian charm, combining traditional craftsmanship with local materials to create a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.

In recent years, the demand for modern living has led to a rise in contemporary-style architecture. Sleek lines, open-plan spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, and minimalist interiors now define Marbella鈥檚 new developments. Many older Mediterranean-style villas and original buildings are being redeveloped to incorporate contemporary elements while maintaining their classic exteriors and charm - which enhance the day-to-day living experience on the Golden Mile.

Luxury estates in the areas like Sierra Blanca often blend these styles, offering a fusion of modern minimalism with traditional Spanish influences, while some properties incorporate Arabic-inspired designs, especially along the beachfront.

Properties on the Golden Mile vary significantly in price depending on location, size, and views. Apartments and townhouses can start from around 鈧�500,000, while luxury villas and mansions can easily exceed 鈧�30 million.

• Beachfront Properties: These command the highest prices, particularly in high-demand areas like Puente Romano or Marbella Club, where prices for villas can start at 鈧�10 million and go up to 鈧�80 million for prime estates.
• Mountainside Properties: In exclusive gated communities like Sierra Blanca, prices typically range between 鈧�2 million and 鈧�30 million, offering large estates with privacy, expansive plots, and panoramic sea views.
• Apartments: Luxury apartments start around 鈧�6,000 per square meter and can exceed 鈧�30,000 per square meter in the most prestigious locations.
• Villas: Villas on the Golden Mile typically range from 鈧�2 million to over 鈧�20 million, with top-end properties, especially beachfront estates, fetching prices as high as 鈧�80 million. The average price for a luxury villa is around 鈧�8,000 to 鈧�14,000 per square meter.

The Golden Mile continues to be a hotspot for foreign investors, with a significant portion of properties over 鈧�2 million being sold to international buyers. Key nationalities include British, Dutch, and Swedish buyers. There is increasing interest from Middle Eastern investors, particularly from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. Until the end of Spain's Golden Visa program in April 2025, buyers from outside the European Union, particularly from the Middle East, China, and Russia, were attracted by this program that granted residency to foreigners making a significant capital investment, including purchase of properties worth at least 鈧�500,000.

There has also been a notable increase in buyers from the USA and Canada, spurred by the attractiveness of owning European real estate as an investment or vacation home. In addition, recent years have seen increasing interest from Eastern European countries, like Poland and Ukraine.

Marbella continues to attract global attention and investment, and the future of its real estate market is bright and promising, as it becomes ever more exclusive and architecturally diverse. The iconic brands, , , and venture into real estate, and Marbella鈥檚 prime areas have become their preferred canvas. On Marbella鈥檚 Golden Mile architecture meets bespoke design.

Offering elite living within 1000 meters from the beach and 3 km from the luxurious Puerto Banus, Fendi Casa has chosen the prestigious Golden Mile for its EPIC Marbella development. Elie Saab Villas go for the upper part of the Golden Mile, the private, gated community of Sierra Blanca. Design Hills Marbella, the first European residential project by Dolce & Gabbana, is strategically located on Marbella's 鈥淒esigner District鈥� on the Golden Mile, along Las Lomas del Marbella Club, within 1-minute drive to the Puente Romano Beach Resort. A testament to sustainable luxury, the Karl Lagerfeld Villas are also set on Marbella's Golden Mile.

The Golden Mile is a perfect example of the harmonious coexistence of luxury and environmental responsibility. It offers a high-quality lifestyle while embracing sustainable practices and green initiatives. Preserving its natural surroundings, the area boasts beautifully landscaped sub-tropical gardens, protected green spaces and natural parks, like popular Parque de Nag眉eles. It also encourages eco-friendly transportation options, such as cycling and walking, and hosts eco-focused events, environmental workshops and sustainability seminars. 

Many properties on the Golden Mile use solar panels, LED lighting, smart home systems and other energy-saving technologies to reduce energy consumption and minimize the carbon footprint. Water-saving practices, including efficient irrigation systems and landscaping with drought-resistant plants, help conserve water resources in the southern region.

Yes, the Golden Mile is considered one of the best real estate investment areas in Marbella due to its high demand and limited supply. The shortage of available land on the Golden Mile has led to increased prices for both existing properties and plots, particularly for those looking to build modern villas.

• Luxury Rentals: Given its prestige, properties on the Golden Mile offer excellent potential for holiday rentals and long-term leases, especially during the high tourist season.
• Property Redevelopment: Many older villas are being renovated or redeveloped into modern, luxury homes, offering strong returns for those looking to invest in property development.
• New Developments: Investors can find opportunities in off-plan developments and newly built modern villas, particularly in Sierra Blanca and Nag眉eles, which cater to buyers seeking contemporary designs.

The real estate market on the Golden Mile remains robust, driven by high demand from international buyers, particularly from the UK, Middle East, and Northern Europe. The market is competitive, with limited availability of land for new developments, particularly in prime beachfront locations. As a result, property prices have remained high, with some fluctuations based on global economic conditions.

Luxury homes and high-end apartments continue to sell well, and there is significant interest in modern villas that offer smart technology, energy efficiency, and contemporary design. There is a growing demand for sustainable homes and properties with large outdoor spaces, reflecting post-pandemic preferences.

Marbella鈥檚 Golden Mile is the ultimate destination for luxury and fun, offering a wide range of experiences. From beach clubs to Michelin-starred restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and stylish shopping, there's something for everyone. Here鈥檚 a look at some of the must-visit spots and activities in the area:

Puente Romano Resort

Located along Marbella's iconic Golden Mile, is a luxurious haven offering a wide range of experiences. The resort features several fine dining restaurants, a variety of cafes, and exclusive boutique stores. Among its high-end shopping options, Chanel stands out, offering luxury fashion for discerning visitors.

For fitness enthusiasts, the Pilates Studio offers specialized classes, while tennis fans can enjoy world-class facilities at the Tennis Club, which has hosted legendary players like Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams. With 10 courts and professional coaching, it鈥檚 a top destination for tennis lovers. Guests can also relax at one of the resort鈥檚 beach clubs, indulge in Mediterranean-inspired treatments at the Six Senses Spa, or explore the resort鈥檚 shopping experiences. When the sun sets, Puente Romano transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination with a selection of nightclubs and bars, perfect for those looking to dance the night away or enjoy a cocktail under the stars.

Marbella Club Hotel

As we鈥檝e already discussed, is a true icon in Marbella, blending historic charm with modern luxury. The hotel offers exclusive experiences, including its famous Beach Club and exceptional restaurants. For those who enjoy a hearty meal, Marbella Grill specializes in high-quality meat dishes prepared with Mediterranean flair.

The hotel also features a Pilates Studio, perfect for those seeking a wellness escape, and a Spa & Wellness Center offering relaxing and rejuvenating treatments. Marbella Club is also home to a selection of luxury boutiques, including Loewe, making it the perfect destination for both relaxation and shopping.

Forum Marbella

is a dynamic shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. The center offers a variety of restaurants, serving everything from casual bites to more refined dishes, alongside cafes perfect for a relaxing coffee break. Spisa, a Swedish food market, provides authentic Scandinavian flavors, while Nybakat, a Swedish bakery, is ideal for enjoying freshly baked goods.

Forum Marbella also boasts a selection of luxury boutiques, making it an excellent place to shop for fashion and unique gifts. After a day of shopping and dining, enjoy a refreshing drink at the rooftop bar, where you can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the coast.

The Golden Mile offers an exceptional quality of life for families. Its exclusive gated communities, such as Sierra Blanca and Nag眉eles, provide safe, secure environments for children, while offering large homes with gardens, swimming pools, and amenities ideal for family living.

Families on the Golden Mile enjoy access to outdoor activities, including beach sports, tennis, golf, and water sports, all within close proximity. The area is also known for its year-round pleasant climate, making outdoor family life enjoyable. Additionally, its central location allows easy access to Marbella鈥檚 town center, Puerto Ban煤s, and shopping centers.

Yes, the Golden Mile is an excellent location for families due to its proximity to some of the best international schools in Marbella. Families living in this prestigious area have access to top-tier educational institutions, offering internationally recognized curricula, a multicultural environment, and excellent facilities. Here are some of the most notable schools near the Golden Mile:

• Swans International School
  • Location: Situated in Sierra Blanca, just a short drive from the Golden Mile.
  • Curriculum: Offers both the British curriculum and the International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, catering to students from ages 3 to 18.
  • Multicultural Environment: With students from over 40 nationalities, Swans provides a truly international experience.
• Aloha College
  • Location: Located in Nueva Andaluc铆a, approximately 10-15 minutes from the Golden Mile.
  • Curriculum: Offers a British curriculum from nursery to sixth form, with the option to pursue the Spanish Bachillerato or the A-Level system.
  • Extracurricular Activities: Provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, including music, art, sports, and community service.
• Laude San Pedro International College
  • Location: Located in San Pedro de Alc谩ntara, about a 15-minute drive from the Golden Mile.
  • Curriculum: Follows the British curriculum and offers the Spanish curriculum for bilingual education.
  • International Community: With students from 52 different countries, Laude fosters an inclusive and globally focused learning environment.
• The British School of Marbella
  • Location: Situated in Marbella鈥檚 town center, around a 5-minute drive from the Golden Mile.
  • Curriculum: Offers the National Curriculum of England, catering to younger children from early years through primary school.

These schools provide families with convenient access to high-quality education, making the Golden Mile an ideal location for those seeking excellent schooling options for their children.

The Golden Mile is well-served by excellent healthcare facilities, both private and public. Some of the top medical centers include:

• : A leading public hospital located just 10 minutes away, providing comprehensive medical services.
• : A private hospital offering state-of-the-art medical care, specializing in a range of fields including cardiology, oncology, and cosmetic surgery.

There are also numerous private clinics and pharmacies within the Golden Mile area, ensuring that residents have access to high-quality healthcare services.

The Golden Mile is not only a hotspot for luxury real estate but also a culinary destination that attracts food enthusiasts from around the world. Known for its high-end dining scene, the Golden Mile offers an array of restaurants that cater to diverse tastes, from local Andalusian dishes to international gourmet cuisine. Whether you're looking for a relaxed beachfront meal or a world-class fine dining experience, the Golden Mile delivers in every aspect.

Some of the notable dining establishments include:

• Nobu Marbella: Part of the world-renowned Nobu chain, famous for its Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine.
• Cipriani: Prestigious Italian fine dining offering classic Venetian dishes and modern Italian cuisine.
• COYA Marbella: Brings the flavors of Peru to the Mediterranean, offering vibrant dishes with a Latin twist.
• Le帽a by Dani Garc铆a: Michelin-starred chef's steakhouse delivering exceptional grilled meats and creative dishes.
• The Grill at Marbella Club: An iconic venue offering a refined Mediterranean menu in an elegant setting.
• Lobito del Mar by Dani Garc铆a: Offers a relaxed dining experience specializing in seafood and traditional Andalusian dishes.
• Victor's Beach Bar: A favorite chiringuito known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning sea views, serving fresh seafood right on the beach.
• Florentine: is an Italian restaurant located in Forum Marbella, offering authentic cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and a sophisticated dining experience.

The Golden Mile's dining scene caters to all tastes, making it a gastronomic paradise for residents and visitors alike.

The Golden Mile is home to an exclusive and diverse nightlife scene, offering something for everyone, whether you're looking for a chic cocktail lounge, a hidden club, or a beach party under the stars. The area is known for its glamorous venues that attract both locals and international visitors throughout the year, especially during the summer months.

• La Plaza at Puente Romano: An open-air courtyard that transforms into a lively nightlife venue with cocktails, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere under the stars.
• NYX at Gaia: A hidden club within the renowned Gaia restaurant, offering an exclusive blend of high-end dining and late-night entertainment.
• Suite del Mar Beach Party at El Chiringuito: Hosts luxurious beach parties during the summer months, combining the beauty of the Mediterranean coastline with a high-energy party atmosphere.
• Momento Marbella: Known for hosting world-class DJs throughout the summer, this nightlife hotspot combines cutting-edge music with a luxurious atmosphere.

The Golden Mile鈥檚 proximity to Puerto Ban煤s also means that residents are just a short drive away from some of Marbella鈥檚 most famous nightclubs and casinos, offering a wide array of entertainment options for every taste.

Marbella鈥檚 Golden Mile finds itself close to many exceptional golf courses on the coast, which is known as the 鈥淐osta del Golf鈥�.

At its western end, opposite Puerto Ban煤s lies the Nueva Andalucia, called the Golf Valley. The upscale residential area has a number of the region鈥檚 best golf clubs, including the renowned Las Brisas Golf Club, Los Naranjos, Magna Golf Marbella, Aloha Golf Club, and La Quinta Golf Resort. 

Real Club de Golf Guadalmina has two golf courses; its Southern Course, the Costa del Sol's second oldest golf course (after M谩laga Parador), welcomed many celebrities. The beautiful Rio Real Golf is one of the oldest and most privileged courses in Marbella; this masterpiece of Jose Arana has played host to many prestigious tournaments. 

The is proud to have its own 18-hole golf course with unusual layout designed by legendary Dave Thomas. Situated only a 20-minute drive from the hotel, amidst the picturesque hills of Benahavis, this magnificent golf course enjoys spectacular views of the Mediterranean, Gibraltar, African coastline, and the surrounding mountains.

The Golden Mile is home to some of the most exclusive gated communities, offering high levels of privacy, security, and luxury. Here are a few of the top gated communities:

• Sierra Blanca
  • Location: Situated on the mountainside above the Golden Mile, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
  • Overview: Known for its large, luxurious villas, Sierra Blanca is one of the most prestigious gated communities in Marbella.
  • Properties: Features expansive villas with landscaped gardens, private pools, and modern amenities.
  • Security: Offers 24-hour security and controlled access, ensuring complete privacy for residents.
• Cascada de Camoj谩n
  • Location: Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Blanca mountains, above the Golden Mile.
  • Overview: Famous for its luxurious estates set on large plots of land, offering unmatched privacy and spectacular views.
  • Properties: Villas often exceed 鈧�5 million, known for exquisite architecture and cutting-edge technology.
  • Security: Offers top-tier security with gated access and surveillance.
• Marbella Hill Club
  • Location: Located on the slopes of the Sierra Blanca, just minutes away from the Golden Mile.
  • Overview: A peaceful, gated community that combines traditional Andalusian charm with modern luxury.
  • Properties: Homes range from luxurious townhouses to large villas.
  • Security: Features 24-hour security and controlled access.
• La Trinidad
  • Location: Right on the Golden Mile, offering easy access to the beach and Marbella鈥檚 amenities.
  • Overview: A prestigious apartment complex known for its beautifully landscaped gardens and excellent communal facilities.
  • Properties: Luxury apartments and penthouses.
  • Security: Provides 24-hour gated security.

These communities are known for their high-quality construction, privacy, and exceptional amenities, making them some of the best places to live on the Golden Mile.

Over the past decade, property prices on the Golden Mile have seen substantial growth, driven by strong demand from international buyers and limited supply of luxury properties.

• Average Price Growth: Property prices on the Golden Mile have more than doubled in the last ten years.
• Luxury Property Growth: High-end properties, especially villas and beachfront properties, have seen even greater appreciation.
• Premium for Beachfront Properties: Beachfront villas and penthouses have shown the highest price increase, with prices rising significantly due to scarcity.

This upward trend is expected to continue due to the scarcity of available land and the continued influx of international buyers. The Golden Mile remains one of the most prestigious real estate markets in Marbella and the Costa del Sol, making it a lucrative area for long-term investment.

We are proud to have our 91果冻 headquarters situated right in the heart of the Golden Mile, on its main street Bulevar Pr铆ncipe Alfonso de Hohenlohe. Located within the most esteemed commercial district of Marbella, our office is surrounded by luxury boutiques, fine dining establishments, and premier hotels such as legendary Marbella Club Hotel and Puente Romano.  This address not only shows prestige and social status, but also offers convenient access to essential amenities and robust transportation infrastructure, facilitating seamless operations for our team and enhanced accessibility for our clientele. 

Read more about our office and its design here

If you are interested in buying, selling or renting a property on the Golden Mile of Marbella contact us today鈥攍et鈥檚 find your dream home.