Hotel Fuerte Marbella, Marbella

Pros

• There are three pools: a heated one, a family-friendly garden pool, and an adults-only rooftop pool.
• The hotel is in Marbella, with easy access to the Old Town and the beachfront.
• The rooms feature modern design, earthy tones, hand-painted ceramics, and spacious terraces.
• The hotel has five restaurants, including beachside and rooftop venues.
• Families are well-catered for with a children's club and babysitting services.
• The Clarins Spa provides a relaxing retreat with a hydrotherapy pool and a sauna.

Cons

• The elevators in the main building are small, accommodating up to four people.
• WiFi can be unreliable in certain areas, particularly on the west side.

Authenticity

Hotel El Fuerte Marbella resides on a site where King Charles V commissioned a fortress in 1554. Over the years, it has evolved from a flour factory to a boarding house and now a luxurious hotel. The recent renovation in 2023 has infused the property with a contemporary allure while preserving its historic charm. The interiors, designed by Chilean designer Jaime Beriestain, blend Mediterranean essence with modern furnishings, heritage-inspired carpets, and ceramics. Local artists have contributed hand-painted ceramics, adding a touch of Andalusian culture. The hotel's architecture features hideaways, like fortress pillars and grand arched doorways, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Location

Located on the busy coastal road of Marbella, Hotel El Fuerte offers a prime spot for exploring the city. It's a short walk to Marbella's charming old town, with attractions like the Contemporary Spanish Engraving Museum and Plaza de los Naranjos just 0.4 miles (600 m) away. The hotel provides beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea, and on clear days, travelers might even spot Gibraltar. The nearby promenade is perfect for strolls, while Puerto Banús, known for its nightlife and shopping, is a 10-minute drive away. The hotel's peaceful street location offers a seamless connection to the beachfront, providing the best of both worlds.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The rooms at Hotel El Fuerte Marbella exude modern elegance with earthy terracotta, golden brown, and green tones. Hand-painted ceramics and hand-carved wooden embellishments add local flair. The rooms are spacious and well-lit, thanks to large sliding doors leading to terraces with sea views. Memory foam mattresses and a selection of pillows ensure a comfortable sleep. Bathrooms feature terracotta clay floors, marble surfaces, and amenities like Molton Brown toiletries. Larger suites offer additional perks like office spaces, kitchens, and balcony hot tubs, enhancing the luxurious experience.

Amenities

El Fuerte Marbella has three pools: a heated garden pool, a family-friendly garden pool, and an adult-only infinity rooftop pool. The garden pools offer sea views, sunbeds, and a lively poolside beach bar. The rooftop pool provides a serene plunge pool experience. The Clarins Spa, an underground sanctuary, offers a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, and steam room, with treatments using Clarins products. The hotel's gym features modern equipment and sea views. Dining options include five restaurants offering exceptional culinary experiences, from Andalusian cuisine to contemporary Mediterranean dishes.

Family-Friendliness

El Fuerte Marbella welcomes families with a free children's club for ages 4 to 12, indoor play areas, and board games. Babysitting services and complimentary cribs are available upon request. The hotel's controlled access to the beachfront ensures a safe environment for families. The property is stroller-friendly, with elevators and family-oriented amenities, making it an ideal choice for those traveling with children.