Kempinski Hotel Bahia ★★★★★

Costa del Sol translates as the ‘Sun Coast’, and that is exactly what you get – around 320 days of Andalusian sun every year and the balmy waters of the southernmost reaches of the Mediterranean coastline. The Kempinski Hotel Bahia***** is on the western, less crowded stretch of the Costa del Sol.

In fact, you couldn’t feel further away from the chaotic hubbub of those overdeveloped resorts. This is the Costa del Sol of the exclusive VIPs, and authentic Andalusian life. The hotel takes inspiration from the area’s history with its Moorish-Andalusian design and architecture. The 16th-century Almenara Watchtower forms the focal point of its extensive subtropical gardens, the beaches nearby are calm, and the town of Estepona just a few minutes away maintains its traditional charm, with picturesque squares and a quaint, whitewashed centre.

Upon entering, you will receive your first taster of the outstanding service in the Moorish palace-style lobby, a masterpiece in marble. After settling in, choice number one is whether you want to sunbathe on the soft sand of the beach or on a lounger beside the pool. You like the sound of the pool? Well, now you have to choose between the three pools scattered through the tropical gardens – or you could also take a dip in the indoor pool at the spa. Perhaps you’re feeling more energetic? Blow off some steam with a game of tennis, beach volleyball, ping-pong, water sports, a round of golf at any of the 50 nearby courses, or a workout at the gym. And why not make the most of your discount at the spa? Just be ready to decide between a range of state-of-the-art facilities, and an extensive list of treatments.

So many choices, and this continues when it comes to dining and evening entertainment, with three different bars and four restaurants. Would you prefer a cocktail by the pool, a menu of 100 different single malt whiskies, or an Andalusian take on afternoon tea? What sounds better, a romantic dinner on a flowery terrace with a sea view, or a meal accompanied by live music in a buzzing restaurant? Freshly caught seafood or perfectly cooked steaks? Chilled out barbecue on the terrace or secluded private dining in an evocative setting beside the ancient watchtower? No two dining experiences or nights at the resort are ever the same, but you can be sure it will all be equally delicious and entertaining.

Moving onto your bedroom, a cosy and comfortable space to return to every night. Elegance, refinement and style fill every corner, while each room boasts bespoke furnishings, top of the range facilities, exquisitely soft bedding and beautiful marble bathrooms. Each Deluxe Room has a private balcony overlooking the gorgeous gardens, where you can live the life of luxury as you drink your complimentary bottle of wine.

It is just as well that these rooms provide such a relaxing cocoon of luxury, because every morning you will need to be feeling well rested and ready to tackle another difficult day of decision making. Our top tip in deciding how to fill your time at the Kempinski Hotel Bahia***** – just make sure you come for long enough to enjoy absolutely everything that the hotel has to offer!