You would have to be a seriously hardened luxury traveller not to be impressed by the sheer glitz and glamour that Spain’s most exclusive resort exudes. From a marina which is home to some of Europe’s largest super yachts, to restaurants and bars which play host to some of the world’s best-known faces, Puerto Banús oozes opulence.
But just because this shimmering resort is the playground of the super rich, it doesn’t prevent us lesser mortals from stopping by to enjoy some of the fun (just don’t forget your credit card). Here’s my selection of the very swankiest dining and entertainment venues to check out on a blow-the-budget trip to the resort.
La Sala
Like most of the very hippest venues in Puerto Banús, it’s tricky to categories La Sala. Part beach bar, part restaurant, part night club, the resort’s coolest bar does it all. There are two terraces (one for socialising and people-watching, the other for intimate drinks à deux). If you’re looking for pumping, nightclub-style action,then head in to the main bar where there is usually a DJ or live music. And if you get hungry there is, of course, an excellent restaurant offering an à la carte menu.
El Gran Gatsby
The fictional Jay Gatsby would have loved the lavish glamour of Puerto Banús, so it seems only fitting that one of its most prestigious eateries is named after him. Set below the famous harbour tower, with views out across the glitzy marina, El Gran Gatsby is the ideal place to enjoy a long leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner. The terrace here seems to float above the water of the marina, making it an idyllic spot for watching the comings and goings of the super yachts. At night (after dinner) the terrace is converted into a dance floor for al fresco cocktails and dancing.
TIBU Rooftop Restaurant
Part of one of the resort’s coolest nightclubs – TIBU Banus – the TIBU Rooftop Restaurant is a breathtaking location for an evening meal, sure to wow any guest you choose to take here. Set just back from the harbour, the rooftop restaurant offers a selection of international cuisine with an Asian twist. But the real draw here is the Teppanyaki table, with a stunning selection of fresh fish and meat, cooked in Japanese style on a central hotplate right before your eyes. The décor is Asian-inspired too with open sides, draped with yards of elegant flowing fabric, providing views out over the town. Attracting a sophisticated cocktail crowd, the restaurant gets busy so make sure you book in advance.
Teatro Marbella
Set in the heart of Puerto Banús, this ritzy theatre-cum-restaurant-cum-nightclub is more reminiscent of Las Vegas than anything you would find in the West End. All singing, all dancing, this is probably the best place in town to enjoy dinner and a show. From the stylish open air terrace to the nightclub theatre, expect lavish live entertainment and elegant fine dining combined in a selection of different entertainment spaces. This set out to be – and definitely succeeds in being – a completely unique entertainment venue.
Where to Stay
H10 Andalucía Plaza – So you’ve got your itinerary of the coolest places to hang out with the rich and famous in Puerto Banús sorted, now all you need to impress you date is the ultimate hotel in the resort. If you’re looking for something special, my advice would be the elegant, adults-only H10 Andalucía Plaza. The stunning design oozes contemporary luxury, from the marbled monochrome lounge to the spacious bedrooms and indulgent spa all the way to the stylish sunbeds set around the vast swimming pool. There’s also a great fine dining restaurant. This is five-star luxury at (shhh, keep it between you and me) four-star prices.
Sisu Boutique Hotel – For a more buzzing vibe try the Sisu Boutique Hotel. Just as elegant and luxe as the Andalucía Plaza but with more of a party atmosphere, the Sisu arranges regular poolside parties with live DJs throughout the summer. The rooms are spacious and airy and done out in elegant, contemporary tiles and fabrics. It also places you just 800 yards from Puerto Banús Beach with its luxe beach clubs and wealthy sun worshippers.
How to Get to Puerto Banús
Assuming you don’t have your own super yacht to moor in the marina, getting to Puerto Banús by aeroplane couldn’t be quicker or easier. Regular flights from the UK fly into Màlaga Airport with a range of premium airlines; the flight takes around two and a half hours. If you want to start as you mean to go on, why not book a luxury private airport transfer with Shuttle Direct to pick you up? Book online in advance and a smartly dressed driver will be in the arrivals lounge to greet you before walking you to a premium vehicle and driving you and your date straight to your hotel in luxurious comfort.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is the leading provider of airport transfers across Europe and North Africa. Whether you are travelling for work or leisure, Shuttle Direct has a range of premium car services to pick you up and take you wherever you want to go. Choose between Executive and Premium services which include high-end cars (or well-kept minibuses and coaches for groups) and private chauffeurs offering first-class customer service.
