Had it not been for the friendship I struck with an enchanting Demoiselle from France on the powdery sands of Moorea, I would not be standing on a private balcony in Puerto Banús, glass of Roederer in hand, watching the sky at sunset glow into a pinkish hue, while directly below, the opulent marina sparkled with luxury boats, yachts and cruisers that anchored in calm waters.
Located just eight kilometres from Marbella, Puerto Banús is no ordinary town on Spain’s Costa del Sol. Built in 1970 by property developer José Banús, it soon morphed into a playground for the jetsetters and the wealthy, with lavish abodes and party lifestyles to match.
Despite its commercialisation, the town stands as a prime example of harmony between the land’s natural beauty and Andalusian architecture. The town is set against the backdrop of the Sierra Blanca mountain range. Conglomerates of low-rise white buildings topped with pale orange rooftops huddle together in front of glamorous vessels that fill the marina.
Puerto Banús is easily covered on foot. Its relaxed pace reflects in wide streets dotted with palm trees, evoking that quintessential holiday atmosphere. A strip of boutiques and eateries line up the promenade making for a pleasant evening stroll or a spot to watch the endless parade of beautiful people. Shops, supermarkets, even Spain’s El Corte Ingles department store offer an abundance of convenience shopping for visitors and dwellers alike.
The beach is never too far, with the statue of José Banús facing the water, his arms stretched open in a welcoming stance. The fine sand of Puerto Banús Beach stretches for one kilometre. Parasols hug its curvature and sun worshippers lay sprawled on colourful sun beds. Despite the heat of the Andalusian sun, not many brave the cold temperatures of the Atlantic ocean.
Puerto Banús is not much of a holiday destination with sights and attractions that lure a transient traveller. It serves as a pied-à-terre for many Spaniards and foreigners who have made it their second home for the lengthy summer, just like Demoiselle Fifi and her parents.
The purpose of our stay was to spend time with her before continuing onto Barcelona and the rest of the European trip. Unfortunately an unexpected event left her stranded in Paris and we were unable to meet. Her charming parents graciously invited us to their residence overlooking the marina before we ventured out for a jovial evening of seafood and drink and ambience as thick as the Andalusian accent till the early hours of the morning.
Our stay at Hotel Dinamar was most enjoyable. With its proximity to the beach and the promenade, we never too far away in case too much food or sun called for an afternoon siesta. The room was very spacious and had a balcony overlooking the sparkling swimming pool and the mountains in the distance.
Puerto Banús served as a good base for comfortable day trips. From there, we were able to explore the Rock of Gibraltar on a day tour and hop on a fast ferry to visit the city of Tangiers in Morocco.
The fondest memory of Puerto Banús lies in the reason for our visit. The people you meet on holidays. The ones you keep in close contact. The ones you don’t forget.
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Hotel Meliá Marbella Dinamar
Ctra. de Cádiz Puerto Banús
Marbella – Málaga SPAIN
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