My partner and I are planning a trip to Marbella later in the year and are looking for some hotel recommendations (4-5 star). We'd like to stay near Marbella Old Town, but also be by the beach. We've heard there are a couple of nice places to stay in the Goldern Mile - Gaudalpin Marbella was recommended- would you chose this place or are there better options nearby? Thanks

I stayed several times at the Puente Romano Hotel, a wonderful 5 star with a private beach. It's located between Marbella city and Puerto Banus. Excellent hotel with good location and an amazing buffet lunch at the beach restaurant.
Be sure to rent a car, you will need it there. You can't go wrong with the Puente Romano.

We also did Puente Romano a couple of years ago and enjoyed it. didn;t like the town of Marbella itself - except for dinner - way too many highrises and too much congestion.

Don Carlos

the Marriot Marbella Beach Resort is an excellent resort. We stayed there for a week - nice, clean, huge rooms. Great location... although not walking distance to the old town. Not sure what your price range it though..

Marbella is a great midpoint for day trips to Malaga, Tarifa, Gibralter, Mijas, and the sorts. And not too far from the airport.

We stayed at the Guadalpin last November. We loved it! Had a wonderful spa, close to the beach but they did not have their own private beach. However, we walked to the boardwalk frequently and it was about a 20 minute walk to the old town. We had a beautiful room with a kitchenette as well!

Here's another vote for the Marriott Marbella Beach Resort. Stayed one week in a lovely spacious villa.

Woody