Gran Miramar Hotel, Malaga

Location

Found right on Malagueta Beach, the Gran Hotel Miramar enjoys all the trappings of the Costa del Sol. White sands, endless sun and azure waters provide the relaxation. But, there’s substance here too. The hotel is perfectly poised to explore the heritage highlights of Málaga, with its grand, Renaissance cathedral just a 15 minutes’ walk away. As the birthplace of one Pablo Picasso, you’ll also find superb museums and galleries dedicated to Málaga’s favourite son. Additionally, Andalucia’s Moorish past lives on in the Alcazaba, a palace-fortress that rivals Granada’s more famous offering.

Accommodation

Constructed in 1926 as the architectural brainchild of Fernando Guerrero, the Gran Hotel Miramar was first inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII. Since then, it’s played the role of Civil War hospital and the city’s ‘Palace of Justice’ before reopening its doors in 2016 as a luxury hotel. It’s a rich history that lives on in the hotel’s bright-white, neoclassic façade, capped with a royal crown. The rooms, on the other hand, combine both classic styling with contemporary flourishes. En suite marble bathrooms come with hydromassage showers while the décor ranges from Arabic patterns and Mediterranean chic to out-right modernism, exemplified by bright splashes of colours. All come with a pillow menu selection, while upgrades mix in garden and sea views along with palatial layouts.

Dining

Across five dining venues, the Gran Hotel Miramar spans the gamut between international favourites and local delicacies. Each restaurant even offers delightful views over the lapping Alboran Sea. Given this privileged position, you can expect the seafood to take centre stage with the city famous for its deep-fried anchovies and sardine skewers, grilled over an open wood fire. However, it’s the shellfish, immaculately presented in innovative dishes, that excite the most. And, if this all sounds like too much, there’s plenty of classic snacks to keep you going.

Facilities

Set in pretty, subtropical gardens that are all palms and lemon trees, there’s plenty of space for an excellent selection of amenities. Prime among them is the wellness centre and spa. Here, you’ll find a complete thermal circuit, Finnish sauna, hammam, Jacuzzi, well-equipped gym and a range of treatments. There are also two semi-heated outdoor swimming pools along with a children’s club hosted by a team of specialists. For further indulgence, make use of the butler service, solarium and VIP club or take a guided tour of the wine cellar, found in the Palace of Justice’s prison.