Situated on the sunny Costa Del Sol, the five-star METT Marbella resort offers an ideal spot for a romantic getaway, writes Lily Smith, who enjoyed a weekend in picture-perfect paradise.
Words: Lily Smith. Photography: METT Hotels & Resorts
From the moment we stepped inside the grand foyer at the METT Marbella, luxury was the word. Created by a Dubai-based lifestyle brand, the design-led hotel oozes allure, beautifully combining modern aesthetics with laid-back beach vibes.
After flying from London to Malaga at the crack of dawn, followed by an hour-long car journey courtesy of the resort’s private transfer service, it was a relief to be greeted by the friendly faces of the reception team. They welcomed us with a refreshing beverage to sip while our eyes lapped up the grandiose features before us – from the huge central olive tree to the waterfall of lush green plants cascading down from the ten floors’ worth of balconies.
It’s the sort of place you enter and instantly feel like you can exhale, letting go of a big, travel-induced sigh you didn’t even realise you were holding. After taking it all in, the reception team provided a brief overview of the hotel’s facilities and explained the convenient WhatsApp messaging system, through which you can raise any queries during your stay. Then, they led us to our jaw-drop-worthy room, where our bags were waiting for us.
Style and substance
The hotel’s 249 rooms elegantly wrap around the star-attraction pool at Azure Beach, the stylish outdoor space. They offer uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean Sea from each balcony.
Our bright and beautiful room effortlessly exuded space, expanded further by the pristine white walls and floor-to-ceiling glass balcony doors. I instantly fell in love with the Mediterranean accents, from the blue shutter doors on the wardrobes to the intricately patterned white-and-blue tiles lining the roomy shower.
The striking blue-on-white design choice was a widespread feature throughout the resort, as were the countless pieces of boho wall art, which adorned the hotel rooms, hallways, and even toilet cubicles.
Not only does each design choice overflow with aesthetic charm, but the hotel was also refurbished using locally sourced materials, and the resort-wide plastic-free policy demonstrates the hotel’s commitment to sustainability.
In terms of facilities, the room featured a wide-screen TV, über-comfy bed, fully-stocked mini bar, complimentary tea and coffee, and a bathroom filled with a wide selection of tropical-scented and vegan-friendly hair and body products, created exclusively for METT guests in collaboration with Botanyc.
The bathroom was also home to generously loaded his-and-hers wash kits, complete with dental hygiene and grooming essentials for both, along with some more intimate items. If you forget to pack anything, METT has you covered.
In both design and functionality, you can feel the effort that’s gone into curating the METT Marbella resort, down to the smallest details.
Spoilt for choice
While the resort has many shining offerings, our weekend highlight had to be the food, with each restaurant and meal continually impressing us.
For breakfast, there’s a generous buffet alongside an à la carte menu offering classic made-to-order dishes. As someone who loves breakfast and well-equipped buffets, the morning meals were an immediate highlight for me.
For cooked breakfast lovers, you’ll enjoy the selection of eggs, meats, and fried goodies on offer. If you’re more of a fruit and yoghurt breakfaster – like me – you’ll love the handmade smoothie bowls, yoghurt and granola pots, chia puddings, and fresh fruit selections.
There were even pots of peanut butter and honey for drizzling, plus made-that-morning pastries, cakes, and muffins. You’ll also find a variety of milks, including lactose-free and plant-based options, along with an extensive selection of juices and infusions.
Our lunches were at Azure Beach, the boho-chic, laid-back restaurant situated on the pristine beach steps from the hotel. The menu offered cocktails and Asian-inspired cuisine, alongside classic beachside options like salads and pizzas.
We spent relaxing hours here, surrounded by tropical plants and the sea breeze. It’s the perfect spot to refuel before a post-lunch walk along the beach.
Wining and dining
For dinner, METT Marbella boasts three à la carte restaurants, all offering different – but equally delicious – cuisines.
On our first night, we enjoyed a three-course dinner at Isola, the on-site Italian restaurant offering authentic home-made pasta, an impressive wine list, and possibly the best cheesecake ever.
After dinner, we sat at Isola’s bar for cocktails, created with delicacy by a bartender who took pride in his work. He even made me a decaf espresso martini after recommending it, accommodating my concern over late-night caffeine.
On our final evening, we dined at El Bar De Lola, an elegant outdoor tapas and cocktail bar. We shared plates of locally sourced Spanish hams and cheeses, alongside fresh crusty bread. With fairy lights and candlelit tables, it’s a romantic spot to enjoy a meal or wine under the warm evening breeze.
Since our stay, a new restaurant, Ammos, has opened at METT Marbella, offering authentic Greek cuisine. Though we didn’t try it, I’m sure it’s a hit, based on the flawless food we experienced.
Your time, your way
From swimming to golfing, spa days to adventures, there are plenty of ways to spend your time at METT Marbella.
If you’re looking to unwind, the on-site MOI Spa offers a variety of treatments and a relaxation area with dim lighting and a heated indoor pool. Alternatively, head to the infinity pool or beach area, with comfortable loungers – even a few four-poster double loungers!
While the poolside atmosphere is relaxing, DJs and live musicians are scheduled throughout the day, occasionally stirring up the party vibes. This was a hit with some guests but less so with others.
If you prefer activity, the RAISE Fitness Zone is equipped with cardio machines and strength-training equipment. You can also enjoy jet-skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, or waterskiing at the METT Beach area. Alternatively, stay dry with a round of golf at the nearby Guadalmina Golf Club, accessible via the resort’s private transfer service.
For a cultural adventure, Estepona is just a 10-minute drive away, and Marbella’s glamorous town centre is only 20 minutes in the opposite direction. Both Malaga and Gibraltar can be reached by car in about an hour.
With year-round sunshine, exceptional food, and a staff that goes above and beyond, METT Marbella is the perfect base for a beach retreat. Whether you want to chill by the pool, adventure on the waves, or explore nearby towns, the choice is yours.
I spent a stunning weekend here with my partner, and while there were families present, the hotel feels geared towards romance and indulgence – perfect for couples seeking luxury, candlelight dinners, and blissful poolside relaxation (until the DJ starts the party!).
Trip notes:
- Lily travelled from London Stansted to Malaga, with return flights starting from approximately £150 per person.
- Overnight stays at METT Hotel & Beach Resort Marbella start from £219 per night. Find out more at metthotelsandresorts.com.
Looking for more inspiration? Browse our travel archives here!
