With 20+ degree days as early as March and reachable in under three hours, the iconic beachfront hotel is the ideal spot for UK travellers seeking spring sunshine.

Marbella is one of the Mediterranean’s rare spots where spring arrives early, with temperatures topping 20 degrees as soon as March. Combine that with flights from the UK in under three hours, and it’s an effortless early-summer sun escape, ideal for lifting spirits after a long, cold winter. Set in the heart of Marbella, El Fuerte Marbella reopened its doors on 6 March for the 2026 season. The iconic, landmark hotel, originally built in 1957 and reimagined in 2023, is ready to welcome couples and families alike into its haven of warmth, character and comfort.

El Fuerte Marbella’s quiet elegance is evident throughout the hotel, where each space reflects a thoughtful balance of style and comfort. The rooms and suites feature chic design with a soothing, relaxed feel, while the hotel’s superb facilities include two swimming pools set in landscaped gardens – including one reserved for adults, an outdoor hot tub, a rooftop infinity pool with beautiful views, a beach club, a gym, and inviting indoor-outdoor areas that flow seamlessly together. The hotel also serves as a canvas for local artists, showcasing various works in collaboration with Andalusian galleries.

For guests seeking wellness experiences, Spa by Clarins offers a luxurious subterranean haven, featuring a serene, low-lit hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room and six treatment rooms. The spa specialises in personalised Clarins treatments, including “Sparty” (spa party) celebrations, premium skincare treatments and personalised wellness advice.

El Fuerte Marbella has a strong emphasis on gastronomy, showcasing local Andalucian ingredients wherever possible. A sumptuous breakfast buffet is complemented with views of the Mediterranean Sea in Le Marché; Soleo Beach Club, which sits right at the first line, serves Med-inspired cuisine with fusion touches; Levante takes guests on a culinary journey that combines Andalusia’s abundant pantry with ingredients from around the world.

El Fuerte Marbella offers a range of activities, excursions and gastronomic experiences for guests, including a “Sunset Balcony Experience” with delicious local delicacies and wine, an “Unpacking & Packing” service, “Marbella History Tour by Bicycle”, “Paella Experience” and day trips to destinations including Gibraltar, Caminito Del Ray, Ronda, The Alhambra and even Tangier or Tetouan in Morocco.

Throughout its rich history, El Fuerte Marbella has played host to an impressive list of celebrated personalities – from Penélope Cruz to Walt Disney – securing its reputation as a style icon both in Spain
and internationally.

Adding to its allure, the hotel’s grounds encompass the historic San Luis Castle, an architectural treasure officially designated as a Cultural Heritage Site.

Located just a five-minute walk from the centre of Marbella’s old town and a stone’s throw from a wide range of restaurants and shops, El Fuerte Marbella offers a coveted location, yet still provides the tranquillity of a peaceful beachside retreat. El Puerto Deportivo, the vibrant heart of Marbella’s nightlife, is nearby, as is the historic Old Town, which delights with charming lanes filled with shops, the renowned Plaza de los Naranjos Square and Iglesia de la Encarnación church.

Prices start from €390 per night in a Standard Double, with breakfast included for two people.

For more information & to book, please go to El Fuerte Marbella.