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Marbella
Spain
Reputation: Pool parties and champagne
spray
Unsung hero: River canyons, historical farmland
and stargazing
Travel inland from Marbella to get a taste of Spain before the
tourists came. A two-hour drive will take you to the historical
farming region of Andalucía, dotted with crumbling ruin,
traditional ranches home to cattle, bulls and goats and untouched
hills best explored on horseback. Alternatively, head to the
Guadalmina River (about 30 minutes’ drive) to visit the cavernous
canyons and untouched wilderness that define the countryside. The
sky comes alive by night; an evening stargazing will offer a
meditative experience that’s within easy reach of the hotel
hotspots and yet feels worlds apart.
When to go: Travel between May
and August
to experience the clearest night skies.
Where to stay: Puente Romano combines the polished side of
Marbella with more than 100 experiences for guests to enjoy, many
of which celebrate the region’s culture. Check in to one of its
suites or villas before enjoying masterclasses in local cuisine as
well as private sessions with sommeliers on days when staying put
appeals.