Vibe
Sleek and stylish, the Ikos Andalusia stands out as a minimalist sanctuary on the spectacular Iberian peninsula.
Set between historic Estepona and the glitz and swagger of Marbella, it makes a virtue of its simple elegance, offering a tranquil haven where everything is taken care of.
Redefining the concept of the traditional all-inclusive of wristbands and a-bit-of-everything buffets, guests here get a superior, deluxe experience.
They are treated to exclusive menus by Michelin-starred chefs, complimentary childcare, resort activities, and a free round of golf at Los Naranjos golf course in Nueva Andalucia, considered one of the best in the area.
The new hotel is the fifth resort in Ikos Resorts’ award-winning collection of luxury all-inclusive hotels, and also the brand’s first in Spain.
Style
The low-rise, whitewashed resort is built in blocks wrapping around eight immaculate pools looking out onto the shores of Playa de Guadalmansa.
Cool and contemporary in design, the Spanish-style floor tiling is muted, cushions and sofas are in soft greys, with lights crafted from wood and string. Lush green indoor plants and palms provide natural decor and there is nothing fussy or unnecessary cluttering up the place, giving a feeling of peace and space.
The pared-back style continues around the pool areas where there are wooden loungers, Balinese beds and plenty of shade. Staff are on hand to make sure your swims go smoothly, handing out fresh towels, organising watersports and offering pool childcare.
Find yourself a spot by the infinity pool, let the kids loose in the children’s area complete with splash pad, or relax for an hour in the dreamy scented waters.
Food and Drink
The resort’s seven restaurants will take you on a culinary tour around the flavours of Europe and Asia.
If you can’t resist the pick-and-mix allure of a buffet, the Ikos Andalucia offers a bountiful Mediterranean evening feast as well as breakfasts, spanning everything from churros to a full English.
The six a la carte menus are curated by Michelin-starred chefs spanning modern Greek, classic Italian, Asian, Provencal and authentic Spanish cuisine, where you can opt for tapas classics such as prawns pil-pil, followed by calamari with chorizo
and garlic.
The interior design of Greek restaurant Ouzo is a must-see – its ceiling is made up of hundreds of clay vases and a hand-painted mural stretching across its three walls. Menu highlights include slow-cooked octopus and shrimps cooked with Ouzo. There’s no better way to take in the Spanish sunset than sipping on a cocktail on the beachside terrace of the Main Bar.
Activities
From paddleboarding to pilates, beach volleyball to beginners’ yoga, guests can enjoy a varied line-up of activities and sports facilities.
The state-of-the-art Heroes Village kids’ club allows children to join in with cooking classes and arts and craft sessions, as well as encouraging them to explore nature across the hotel grounds.
Football fans can take part in celebrity-led training sessions, with the likes of Rachel Yankey, Rio Ferdinand and Bobby Zamora all involved in the scheme.
You can also enjoy a workout in the brand new on-site outdoor gym.The Ikos Spa offers revitalising beauty treatments and massage therapies using essential oils and minerals. I went for a deluxe neck and back massage that I hoped would never end.
Out and About
Stretching across five miles along the Costa del Sol with views to Gibraltar and, on a clear day, North Africa, the hotel’s complimentary Golden Mile Experience offers you the chance to either bike or hike your way to the old town of Estepona. While you’re there I recommend the Ferrero ice cream from Heladeria Ambrosia.
The hotel also offers a Dine Out programme, enabling guests to sample some of the best restaurants across Marbella and Estepona – and it’s all covered within the all-inclusive experience.
THE DEAL
- Room rates from £345 per night, all-inclusive, based on two people sharing a double room. ikosresorts.com
- Olympic Holidays offer seven nights all-inclusive at the five-star Ikos Andalusia, from £1,551pp based on two travelling. Flights departing Gatwick on October 8 (other UK airports available). olympicholidays.com
