The Nueva Andalucia Area Guide

Welcome to Nueva Andalucía, one of the most prestigious and sought-after residential areas in Marbella. Nestled in the hills just behind the world-famous Puerto Banús, this sprawling, leafy suburb offers an unparalleled lifestyle of luxury, leisure, and tranquility. Often referred to as the "Golf Valley," Nueva Andalucía is a haven for golf enthusiasts, but its appeal extends far beyond the fairways. With its stunning villas, high-end apartments, vibrant international community, and a wealth of amenities, it represents the pinnacle of Costa del Sol living. This guide will take you on a comprehensive tour of everything that makes Nueva Andalucía a truly special place to live or visit.

A Glimpse into the History of Nueva Andalucia

The story of Nueva Andalucía is intrinsically linked to the visionary developer who also created its glamorous neighbour, Puerto Banús. In the late 1960s, a visionary entrepreneur named José Banús Masdeu acquired a vast expanse of land northwest of Marbella. His ambition was not just to build houses, but to create a luxurious, self-contained community. He envisioned a place with spacious homes set on wide, tree-lined avenues, complemented by world-class golf courses and all the amenities one could desire. This vision was masterfully brought to life, transforming what was once agricultural land into the sophisticated residential area we see today. The name "Nueva Andalucía" (New Andalusia) perfectly captures the blend of traditional Andalusian charm with a modern, cosmopolitan lifestyle. While it boasts a contemporary infrastructure, you can still find vestiges of its agricultural past, which adds to its unique character.

The Epitome of Luxury Living: Real Estate in Nueva Andalucia

The real estate market in Nueva Andalucía is as diverse as it is exclusive. The area is renowned for its magnificent villas that boast panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, the African coastline, and the surrounding mountains. These properties often feature expansive gardens, private swimming pools, and state-of-the-art technology. In addition to grand villas, Nueva Andalucía offers a wide array of luxury apartment complexes and townhouses, many of which are situated within gated communities with 24-hour security, lush communal gardens, and multiple swimming pools.

In recent years, the demand for property in Nueva Andalucía has soared, making it a hotspot for international buyers and investors. The market has seen a significant increase in property values, reflecting the area's desirability. A key trend is the growing preference for "turnkey" properties – newly built or recently renovated homes that are ready to be moved into immediately. Buyers are willing to pay a premium for high-quality, modern design and the convenience of a key-ready home. Whether you are looking for a palatial mansion in the hills or a stylish, contemporary apartment with golf course views, Nueva Andalucía's property market offers a wealth of options to suit the most discerning tastes. The strong rental market, both for long-term and short-term holiday lets, also makes it an attractive proposition for those looking to invest in a property that generates a healthy return.

The Golfer's Paradise: World-Class Golf Courses

Nueva Andalucía's most famous moniker is the "Golf Valley," and for a very good reason. The area is home to a concentration of some of the finest golf courses in Spain, making it a mecca for golfers from around the globe. The lush green fairways wind their way through the valleys and hills, offering challenging play and breathtaking scenery. The prestigious courses in this area have hosted numerous professional tournaments and are meticulously maintained to the highest standards.

• Real Club de Golf Las Brisas: Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., Las Brisas is one of the most exclusive and challenging courses on the Costa del Sol. Its beautifully manicured fairways are lined with a stunning collection of trees and plants from all over the world.
• Los Naranjos Golf Club: Another Robert Trent Jones Sr. design, Los Naranjos is known for its wide fairways and large, undulating greens. It has a friendly, sociable atmosphere and is a popular choice for both members and visitors.
• Aloha Golf Club: Designed by Javier Arana, one of Spain's most celebrated golf architects, Aloha Golf is a beautiful parkland course that has hosted the Andalusian Open on several occasions. It demands accuracy and offers a varied and enjoyable round.
• La Quinta Golf & Country Club: Although technically just on the edge of Nueva Andalucía, La Quinta is an integral part of the Golf Valley experience. Designed by Manuel Piñero, this 27-hole course offers three different 9-hole combinations, providing plenty of variety and stunning views.

A Gastronomic Journey: The Best Restaurants and Nightlife

The culinary scene in Nueva Andalucía is as sophisticated and international as its residents. From trendy cafes and traditional Spanish tapas bars to Michelin-starred restaurants, there is something to tantalize every palate. The area around Aloha is a particular hub for dining, with a vibrant strip of restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines.

Fine Dining and International Cuisine

For those seeking a memorable dining experience, Nueva Andalucía does not disappoint. Restaurants like Breathe offer a fresh, innovative menu with a focus on healthy, sustainable ingredients, all in a stunningly designed setting. For meat lovers, Vovem Asador is a must-visit, renowned for its incredible selection of aged meats from around the world. Other popular spots include Mosh Fun Kitchen, which combines dining with live entertainment, and the elegant Magna Cafe, which boasts spectacular views from its terrace. The gastronomic offering is incredibly diverse, with options ranging from authentic Italian and gourmet Indian to the freshest sushi.

Vibrant Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Nueva Andalucía comes alive with a sophisticated and varied nightlife scene. While it is more laid-back than the hedonistic Puerto Banús, it offers plenty of options for a great night out. The Aloha area is dotted with stylish cocktail bars and lounges where you can enjoy a pre-dinner aperitif or a late-night drink. For those looking to party in style, Naô Pool Club is a glamorous daytime venue that often hosts events with international DJs. The proximity to Puerto Banús and Marbella's Golden Mile means that the world's most famous superclubs and beach clubs are just a short taxi ride away.

Shopping and Amenities

Nueva Andalucía is well-equipped with all the amenities needed for a comfortable and convenient lifestyle. For everyday shopping, there are several supermarkets, organic food markets, and delicatessens. The Centro Plaza commercial centre is a popular hub, offering a mix of boutiques, restaurants, cafes, a gym, and a beauty salon. Every Saturday, it hosts a bustling street market, which is a great place to find everything from clothing and crafts to fresh produce and antiques. For a more extensive retail therapy session, the luxury designer boutiques of Puerto Banús and the large La Cañada shopping mall are just a few minutes' drive away.

Sun, Sea, and Sand: Beaches Near Nueva Andalucia

While Nueva Andalucía is set back from the coast, the beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean are just a stone's throw away. The closest beach is Playa de Nueva Andalucía - El Duque, which is located just to the west of Puerto Banús. This stretch of sand is known for its famous beach clubs, including the luxurious Ocean Club, where you can relax on a VIP bed, sip champagne, and enjoy the party atmosphere. The beach itself is a wide expanse of golden sand with calm waters, making it ideal for families. A beautiful promenade runs along the beach, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride, and connects all the way to Marbella town.

Beyond the Luxury: Everyday Life and Amenities

What makes Nueva Andalucía such a desirable place to live is that it combines a luxury resort lifestyle with all the practicalities of a year-round residential area. It is home to one of the most respected international schools on the coast, Aloha College, which offers a British-style education to students from over 50 different nationalities. There are also numerous other amenities such as tennis and paddle clubs, fitness centres, and medical facilities, ensuring that all your needs are catered for.

Conclusion: Your Dream Lifestyle Awaits

Nueva Andalucía truly offers the best of all worlds. It is a peaceful and secure residential area with a strong sense of community, yet it is just moments away from the glitz and glamour of Puerto Banús and the charm of Marbella's old town. With its unbeatable combination of world-class golf courses, stunning properties, excellent amenities, and a vibrant social scene, it is no wonder that so many people from all over the world have chosen to make Nueva Andalucía their home. Whether you are looking for a holiday retreat, a permanent residence, or a sound property investment, Nueva Andalucía is a place where you can live your dream lifestyle under the Mediterranean sun.

Proximities to Nueva Andalucía, Marbella