The Costa del Sol has always been synonymous with luxury living, and at its heart lies the famous Golden Mile of Marbella. However, a new contender has emerged in recent years, capturing the attention of discerning buyers and holidaymakers alike. The New Golden Mile, stretching from San Pedro de Alcántara to the eastern part of Estepona, has become a sought-after destination in its own right, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, modern amenities, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
What is the New Golden Mile?
Despite its name, the New Golden Mile is not a specific area but rather a general term encompassing several distinct neighborhoods. It’s as much a state of mind as it is a geographical location, embodying the aspirational lifestyle that has made Marbella famous while carving out its own unique identity.
The area is characterized by its stunning coastline, where fine golden sand meets the clear waters of the Mediterranean. Unlike some overdeveloped coastal areas, the New Golden Mile has been carefully planned, with restrictions on tall buildings near the shore. This thoughtful approach to development has only increased the area’s appeal and the demand for real estate.
The New Golden Mile can be broadly divided into two sections: the beachfront areas, which are particularly popular with northern European buyers, and the hillside developments. On the mountain side of the coastal road, you’ll find well-established areas such as Atalaya, Bel-Air, Benavista, El Paraiso, and the charming village of La Cancelada. Behind these lies Los Flamingos, an exclusive, private luxury residential area that has become one of the most desirable addresses in the region.
Location and Accessibility
The New Golden Mile stretches along the N-340 coastal road, from Guadalmina to just past the Kempinski Hotel in Estepona. While administratively part of Estepona, the area benefits from easy access to all the amenities of Marbella. The strategic location means that residents and visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds – the relative tranquility of the New Golden Mile and the vibrant scene of Marbella’s center and Puerto Banús.
To put it in perspective, the New Golden Mile is approximately 19km from Marbella’s Golden Mile, 15km from Puerto Banús, 20km from Marbella’s Old Town, and just 11km from San Pedro de Alcántara. This accessibility is a significant draw for those who want to be close to the action but prefer a more relaxed home base.
A Brief History
The development of the New Golden Mile is a relatively recent phenomenon, having begun in earnest at the end of the 1990s. The area, which was once primarily known for its fishing villages, saw rapid development as investors and developers recognized its potential. Over the past two decades, it has transformed into a thriving community that rivals its namesake in Marbella for luxury and prestige.
The Scale of Development
Spanning approximately 20km along the coast, the New Golden Mile covers a substantial area. Like its Marbella counterpart, it extends into the hills, where you’ll find some of the most exclusive golf courses and residential properties in the region. The varied terrain offers a mix of beachfront properties, hillside villas with panoramic views, and everything in between.
Real Estate in the New Golden Mile
One of the most appealing aspects of the New Golden Mile is the diversity of its real estate offerings. The area’s relatively recent development means that buyers can find everything from traditional Mediterranean-style homes to ultra-modern architectural masterpieces.
Many of the long-standing properties in the area follow a classical Mediterranean style, characterized by light color palettes and tiled roofs. These homes offer a timeless charm that many buyers find irresistible. However, in recent years, there has been a significant shift towards more contemporary designs.
Modern villas and apartments, featuring sleek white facades and floor-to-ceiling windows, have become increasingly popular. These properties take full advantage of the area’s natural beauty, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean, Gibraltar, and even the North African coast on clear days.
For those seeking the utmost in privacy and security, the New Golden Mile also boasts a number of luxury gated communities. These exclusive enclaves offer elegant living environments with top-notch amenities and round-the-clock security.
The Views
One of the New Golden Mile’s greatest assets is its views. Running along the coastal road, many properties in the area offer breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean, with Gibraltar and the North African coast visible on the horizon. Inland properties aren’t left out either, with many offering beautiful views of the area’s world-class golf courses and the surrounding mountains.
A Popular Place to Live
The New Golden Mile has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after addresses on the Costa del Sol. This rise in demand can be attributed to several factors.
Firstly, the area offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling center of Marbella, appealing to those who prefer a quieter lifestyle without sacrificing access to amenities. Secondly, the process of obtaining construction licenses in the New Golden Mile is generally smoother than in Marbella, making it an attractive option for those looking to build their dream home.
Moreover, the New Golden Mile still has significant land available for development, allowing for more spacious properties and giving buyers the opportunity to create truly bespoke homes. Coupled with the outstanding amenities and high quality of life, it’s easy to see why the area has become so popular among both permanent residents and second-home buyers.
Activities and Amenities
The New Golden Mile offers a wealth of activities and amenities to suit all tastes and lifestyles. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking to relax on the beach, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained.
Golf
Golf enthusiasts are particularly well-catered for in the New Golden Mile, with three excellent courses to choose from:
1. El Paraiso Golf Club: Designed by golfing legend Gary Player in 1973, El Paraiso offers two 18-hole courses set amidst stunning greenery. Suitable for players of all levels, it provides a true Andalusian golfing experience.
2. La Resina Golf and Country Club: This 9-hole par 3 course is surrounded by beautiful pine forests, offering a more intimate and relaxed golfing experience. The clubhouse restaurant is known for its delicious homemade meals using fresh ingredients.
3. Los Flamingos Golf: Located next to the Anantara Villa Padierna Hotel, this par 71, 18-hole course is known for its prestige and outstanding clubhouse. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking exclusivity and incredible views.
Tennis and Padel
For racquet sports enthusiasts, the New Golden Mile offers several excellent facilities:
1. Bel Air Tennis and Padel Club: This family-friendly club offers programs for adults and children of all levels. With 6 hard courts, 4 clay courts for tennis, and 4 glass courts for padel, it’s a hub for racquet sports in the area.
2. RozaRossa Tennis Club: This brand-new facility boasts 9 modern courts, along with a swimming pool and restaurant. Private lessons with professional instructors are available for those looking to improve their game.
3. Villa Padierna Racquet Club: Located just meters from the beach, this club offers 15 padel courts and 2 quick surface tennis courts. It’s also home to the world’s first padel court and features its own padel academy.
Horse Activities
Horse lovers are well catered for in the New Golden Mile. Two notable establishments offer a range of equestrian activities:
1. Pony Club Villacana: Located in Cancelada, this club offers riding school, camps, competitions, and excursions.
2. Centro de Doma El Padrón: This center provides dressage training, horse sales, and riding lessons.
Gastronomy
The New Golden Mile is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. Beach clubs are particularly popular during the summer months, offering the perfect blend of sun, sea, and exquisite cuisine.
Some standout dining options include:
1. Barbillón: This beachside restaurant is known for its Andalusian dishes and fresh seafood, served in a chic setting that captures the essence of the Costa del Sol.
2. Isola: A recent addition to the New Golden Mile’s dining scene, Isola brings a taste of Southern Italy to the Spanish coast.
3. Dajidali: For those craving Japanese cuisine, Dajidali offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere and a menu of Japanese classics and favorites.
4. Kalma & Kaos: This unique concept offers two dining experiences under one roof – Kalma for top-quality sushi and Japanese cuisine, and Kaos for Mediterranean delicacies.
5. Tikitano: With its spectacular sea views and spacious gardens, Tikitano offers a fresh interpretation of Mediterranean flavors in an idyllic setting.
6. Club del Mar Villa Padierna: One of the most exclusive beach clubs in the area, offering caviar, paella, and fresh seafood alongside plush sunbeds and signature cocktails.
7. Beso Beach: This lively beach club offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Basque cuisines, with sister locations in Mallorca and Ibiza.
Other Activities
Beyond sports and dining, the New Golden Mile offers a range of other activities and attractions:
1. Selwo Aventura: This wildlife park allows visitors to see over 1000 animals in semi-free conditions, offering a fun day out for families.
2. The Paseo: The pedestrian promenade along the seafront is perfect for walks, jogging, or simply enjoying the sea air.
3. Cultural Attractions: The Prehistoric Necropolis of Corominas and the Paleontology Museum of Estepona offer interesting cultural experiences.
4. Luxury Resorts: Villa Padierna and Finca Cortesin in nearby Casares offer world-class amenities and day trip options for those seeking luxury experiences.
A new luxury location
The New Golden Mile has rapidly established itself as one of the most desirable areas on the Costa del Sol. With its beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, excellent dining options, and diverse range of properties, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a permanent residence, a holiday home, or an investment opportunity, the New Golden Mile deserves serious consideration. As development continues and amenities improve, this area is likely to become even more sought-after in the years to come, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the best of what the Costa del Sol has to offer.
