Andalusia’s southern coast is blessed with the best climate in Europe – little wonder then, that it’s the popular choice for short-haul holidays in the sun. For 2020, there’s a new resort that should be on your radar, and it’s already setting new standards on the shores of the Mediterranean. It is called the Palladium Hotel Costa del Sol, writes Andrew Forbes.
Over the past 50 years the Costa del Sol has emerged as one of the world’s favourite holiday destinations, yet it was only this year that leading hospitality company, Palladium Hotel Group came to the coast.
It’s latest property, the 4-star Palladium Hotel Costa del Sol, is found on a privileged front-line beach location in the stylish Mediterranean resort community of Benalmádena – and is already creating a new level of holiday elegance on the coast.
The 336-room hotel, designed for couples and families looking for a contemporary, relaxed resort on the popular Costa del Sol, has been completely remodelled. It had its soft opening in 2019.
I was really impressed during my visit. It gave me a completely fresh perspective of this part of the Costa del Sol, a coastline that has great beaches and it is undergoing a renaissance. Right next to the hotel is opening a new beach club, set to be one of the hottest addresses on the Costa del Sol. So, if you looking to revisit a favourite destination, but wanting something contemporary and fresh, then the Palladium Hotel Costa del Sol might just fit the bill.
Location
The hotel makes for an easy escape from the cold of Northern and Central Europe. It’s half an hour from Malaga’s airport, and can be reached easily by train or taxi from the airport. I arrived by car, and there was plenty of free parking too – so convenient!
Benalmádena is a resort seaside town that has grown up around a traditional Andalusian white ‘pueblo’ that is in the hills overlooking the coast. It’s a charming village that’s easy to reach from the hotel and offers an insight into traditional Andalusian life. I really recommend taking a half day to enjoy the village, mooching around its narrow lanes, enjoying the boutiques, galleries and having a coffee or drink a traditional bar,
The resort of Benalmádena is also at the heart of the main attractions of the western Costa del Sol, including a world-class butterfly park, a remarkable cable car that takes visitors up to the top of the mountains that shelter the coast, as well as theme and water parks. So for families it’s a care-free choice.
For couples looking for relaxation and tranquillity, the hotel has you covered too. I really like the secluded adults only pool at the hotel, and the fine-dining restaurant.
Style and Ambiance
I particularly liked the design of the hotel, which brings a contemporary, calming aesthetic to the coast, and reflects the Palladium brand commitment to quality. The property is filled with light and the views out to the Mediterranean are impressive.
The property is built on a small hillside on the shore, so one enters the lobby on the 6th floor, and immediately one is greeted by spectacular sea views – you know your holiday has begun!
Public spaces are stylish and well appointed – this is a relaxed family-friendly resort, but it has a sophisticated feel, like the lobby bar.
Guest Rooms
All rooms face the sea, so whatever category you choose for your holiday you can be assured of the same splendid view and also the same, calming neutral aesthetic.
However, if you feel like pushing the boat out, and upgrading your stay, then I can recommend the suites.
The large open space, which has its own private sea facing terrace, includes a living area, dressing area, the bedroom and a stylish bathroom. The space is divided by a rotating screen mounted with a huge TV.
Entertainment
Palladium has built its extraordinarily successful hospitality business on offering guests the full holiday experience – great hotel locations, top-notch facilities, varied dining and entertainment too. The Palladium Hotel Costa del Sol is no exception with its comedy-style theatre and bar Vodevil is a fun place to enjoy after dinner performances and shows.
If you are an active person, then there are plenty of water sports to enjoy too.
Sky Lounge
The hotel make the very most of its front-line location with the stunning Nix Sky Lounge. This is Palladium Hotel Costa del Sol’s rooftop terrace where guests head to after dinner for sundowners and cocktails accompanied by beautiful sunsets. There’s live entertainment too, with some of the coast best singers.
During the day it’s the place to catch some rays, or chill in the spa tubs.
There’s also two pools with bars.
Dining
The Palladium Hotel Costa del Sol offers guests the flexibility for different packages from Bed & Breakfast, Half Board to all-inclusive. The dining options presently include:
Chang Thai
This signature, à la carte restaurant offers south-east Asian cuisine. Chang Thai is a reservations-only fine-dining restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. It’s an intimate space for a stylish dinner.
Pintarroja
This is the hotel’s main restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with show-cooking, and comprehensive buffets that highlight Spain and Andalusia’s gastronomy. Live music is part of the ambience – with a guitarist or violinist at breakfast and other performers during the day.
Poseidón
This is the hotel’s beachside chiringuito and bar – a seafront beach restaurant where guests can tuck into all-day snacks. For the 2020 season further enhancements will be unveiled to this area, that faces the sheltered bay and uncrowded beach.
Wellness
Zensations is the hotel’s spa – created by the talented Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness team. It includes a gym as well as the spa facility, including a steam room and sauna, and of course massage and treatment rooms.
Information
Deluxe rooms are priced from £134, based on two people sharing on an all-inclusive basis.
Website: www.palladiumhotelgroup.com/en/malaga/palladium-hotel-costa-del-sol/
