Anantara Villa Padierna (3)

Sitting inland between Marbella and Estepona, surrounded by rolling hills and three championship courses, Anantara Villa Padierna is a refined five-star resort built around a classical, grand aesthetic — marble columns, classical artwork and manicured gardens that give it a calm, grown-up feel rather than a busy resort vibe. Rooms are spacious and well-finished with balconies or terraces and marble bathrooms, and dining spans several restaurants covering Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine plus relaxed bars for evening drinks. The standout feature is one of the biggest wellness spas in southern Spain, alongside multiple outdoor pools and direct access to the on-site golf courses. It suits golfers, couples and travellers after peace, space and high standards without being in the middle of a resort town.