Increasing quality, not quantity
If you are considering purchasing an investment property on the Costa del Sol and have your eye on a villa in Marbella, you’ll most likely be aware that there has been a shift in attitudes towards mass tourism. In Málaga, and many of the world’s tourism and property hotspots, the emphasis is firmly on reducing the number of visitors, whilst increasing their spending.
It is only possible to attract wealthier tourists by offering the right calibre of accommodation. This could be luxury property in Marbella, La Zagaleta or a similar upmarket neighbourhood like the Golden Mile Marbella. Another way is to increase the number of luxury hotels in the vicinity.
The provision of additional 5-star hotels will attract the type of visitors with increase spending and investment capacity. In June 2023, the Mayor’s sentiment was reiterated by Málaga’s tourism councillor, Jacobo Florido, and both have set a goal to double the number of luxury hotels in Málaga and the wider Costa del Sol by 2027.
Fast forward to August 2024, an article published in Tophotel (August 2024) announced the imminent arrival of the third ‘W’ hotel in Spain. The W Marbella is due to open in Marbella in 2027, helping the Mayor achieve his target for more luxury hotel rooms on the Costa del Sol. W Marbella, part of the Marriott Hotels group. There are 50 W luxury hotels around the world, only three are located in Europe, all of which are in Spain in Madrid, Barcelona and now Marbella.
W Marbella will be located on Playa Real de Zaragoza (a few minutes’ drive from central Marbella) and will comprise 200 guestrooms, including suites (26) and a presidential suite aptly named the Extreme Wow Suite. As befitting a hotel of this calibre there will be a private beach club, well-ness and fitness facilities, beauty salon, restaurant, bar (and juice bar) and wet pool decks. Corporate clients are also welcome to use the modern meeting rooms and an enormous covered terrace for events.
The Residences at W Marbella
There will be 100 low-rise apartments and villas (which will be available to purchase – watch this space!). Owners and residents, will have access to all of the hotel’s amenities and services, including housekeeping and a private pool. The lucky buyers who manage to snap up what is expected to become some of the most sought-after luxury property in Marbella, can rest assured that they have made a shrewd long-term investment.
Of course, the ‘W Marbella’ is not the only luxury brand to invest in the Costa del Sol, over the last couple of years Marbella and its environs has seen a staggering invest surge. In 2023, 17€ million was invested a total revamp of the Ikos Andalucia on the New Golden Mile, Estepona. This was followed by a 40€ million of investment by the Unicorn Royal Emirates to purchase the part-finished 5-star Santa Marta hotel, also with a completion date slated for 2027. It is estimated that when this magnificent beachfront project is finished, the total amount of investment will be within the region of 150€ million.
What does this mean for luxury property sales?
Managing the amount and type of holiday accommodation and the number and calibre of tourists can only be a positive step for residents, visitors and anyone considering buying an investment property on the Costa del Sol. With fewer visitors with higher spending and investment power, the Costa del Sol’s reputation and standard of amenities are likely to improve, attracting a more affluent demographic and fostering an environment of exclusivity and luxury.
If you would like assistance in finding the luxury property for sale in Marbella, and the wider Costa del Sol, get in touch with Marbella Beachfront for access to the latest listings. Whether you’re looking for beachfront properties on the golden mile, new golden mile… from Malaga to Sotogrande, we have it covered.
Check out our website www.marbellabeachfront.com or get in touch Call, WhatsApp or email.
