History of Marbella Club

Located on the beautiful Costa del Sol, Marbella Club is known for its luxury, style and exclusive atmosphere. The story of this famous place is closely connected to the Hohenlohe family, who turned a small Mediterranean village into a world-famous luxury destination.

Origins of Marbella Club: The Vision of Prince Alfonso

The story of Marbella Club begins with Prince Alfonso of Hohenlohe-Langenburg, a Spanish-born aristocrat of German descent, whose vision and entrepreneurial spirit laid the foundations for what would become one of Europe’s most glamorous resorts. In the early 1940s, Prince Alfonso was introduced to Marbella by his cousin, Ricardo Soriano, Marquis of Ivanrey, who had already discovered the town’s natural beauty and charming ambience. Soriano had acquired a finca (country estate) in the area and spoke highly of its potential.

In 1947, Prince Alfonso purchased a 180,000-square-meter estate known as Finca Santa Margarita, situated between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra Blanca mountains. At that time, Marbella was a quaint fishing village, untouched by the tourism boom that would sweep through Spain in the following decades. Prince Alfonso envisioned turning his estate into an exclusive retreat, a place where friends and high-profile guests could escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Marbella in 1954

Establishment of Marbella Club: A Luxurious Escape

In 1954, the Marbella Club officially opened its doors as a private club. The original structure was a humble, whitewashed finca, exuding a rustic yet sophisticated charm. Prince Alfonso's friends and aristocratic acquaintances from across Europe soon flocked to the Marbella Club, drawn by its relaxed yet refined atmosphere. The hotel offered an idyllic setting, with lush gardens, beautiful sea views and a sense of privacy that was rare in the burgeoning tourism industry.

The Marbella Club quickly gained a reputation as a playground for the rich and famous. Prince Alfonso’s connections in high society brought an influx of notable guests, including royalty, Hollywood stars, and international jet-setters. Among the early visitors were the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, film stars like Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot, and members of the European aristocracy. The allure of Marbella Club lay not only in its exclusivity but also in the personal touch and hospitality offered by Prince Alfonso and his family.

Expansion and Evolution: Adapting to Changing Times

Over the years, Marbella Club has expanded and renovated to meet the changing preferences of its guests. What started as a simple country house has grown into a large resort, offering luxurious suites, private villas and top-notch amenities. The beautiful gardens have been carefully designed to create a peaceful and relaxing environment. New additions like restaurants, a beach club, a spa and a golf course have made Marbella Club an even more attractive luxury destination.

Kenan Sinanovic at AMEA is sharing his words about Marbella Club:

“The Marbella Club is more than just a luxury hotel; it's a place where history and modern luxury blend seamlessly. It’s amazing how they’ve maintained that special, original vibe while evolving with the times.”

As Marbella Club continues to evolve, it retains its unique charm, drawing in guests who seek both relaxation and luxury on the beautiful Costa del Sol.