La Zambra is one of the loveliest resorts in Costa del Sol, and welcomes families like a true Andalusian, which there’s no doubt it is, in every sense.
Entrance, La Zambra, Costa del Sol
Five star La Zambra Resort lies in the village of Mija, between Marbella and Malaga, on the Costa del Sol. In a rare design feat, it combines the timeless elegance of traditional Andalusian architecture with sleek modernity and still manages to look entirely original, and quite lovely.
Of course, like all great hotels, it also has a good backstory – more of that later – and it doesn’t stint on indulging guests: one of the largest wellness centres on the Costa del Sol is at home here. But will your children love La Zambra as much as you?
Seems design feats aren’t the only ones this extraordinary resort can pull off, because it couldn’t be more perfect for families, and we’re confident your kids will agree. So before we tell you any more about La Zambra’s parent appeal, here’s what they’re doing for younger guests this year.
Creative play to Flamenco, this is how all kids’ clubs should be
It’s very clear that a kids’ club hasn’t been added as an afterthought at La Zambra. The care and attention to little details is unmistakeable, and we love the idea of teaching children to dance in the heartland of Flamenco. Although that’s far from all your kids can get up to here.
The tiniest of guests, from six months to three years, have their own space and the undivided attention of fully trained staff. And, while they may not be picking up dance moves, the mix of indoor and outdoor play, rest and quiet time, as well as plenty of cossetting, means you can relax and enjoy some time to yourself.
Activities for four to 10 year olds also cover all bases, so there will definitely be something for your kids to get excited about. Again, the staff are qualified childcare professionals, and devoted to making sure there’s the right balance of fun, learning and creativity for every child.
Plus, regular events like Junior Golf Camp are great confidence builders. Gardening and cooking classes, along with outdoor sports gently encourage kids to try new things. And, of course, there’s nowhere quite like a friendly, energetic kids club for making holiday friends: we all remember the importance of that.
All families receive two complimentary hours at the kids’ club for every day of their stay at La Zambra.
Mood Spa, La Zambra
La Zambra thinks children deserve a little spa time too
Mood Spa is part of La Zambra’s 2,000m² wellness centre and somewhere you definitely want to spend a few hours while your children are funning it up at the kids’ club. Though it’s also the place where you can spend time together, as the beautifully designed indoor spa pool makes room each day for Family Time: a particularly sweet idea for younger kids making a first foray into swimming.
That said, there’s nothing like splashing around in the sun, and La Zambra has plenty of outdoor pools too, including a family pool with child-friendly depths.
Patio, Picador restaurant, La Zambra
The Best Gastronomic Hotel in Spain and Portugal 2024 welcomes kids at the table
Condé Nast Traveler named La Zambra, Best Gastronomic Hotel in Spain and Portugal 2024, and we aren’t even slightly surprised.
The essence of what makes Andalusia one of the world’s culinary greats is unmistakeable in each of its four restaurants; from their passion for fresh, local ingredients and playful takes on tradition to the easy atmosphere that always seems to come naturally to this part of the world.
Of course, another Andalusian signature is love of family, which at La Zambra translates into your kids being made to feel welcome at the table, cherished and just a little bit spoiled. You’ll find children’s menus that tempt young palates without patronising them and, at the breakfast buffet every morning, there’s a dedicated corner just for younger guests. It’s worth mentioning here, that breakfast is included in all room rates at La Zambra.
Family Room, La Zambra, Costa del Sol
Plenty of space for little sleepy heads, and privacy for parents
All 196 rooms and suites at La Zambra are designed in cool, neutral tones with an emphasis on cocooning you in comfort, as well as satisfying your inner aesthete. It’s a mood we like, not least because it lets the gorgeous Andalusian light play hero, both indoors, and out: every room and suite has it own spacious terrace or balcony.
Particular attention has also been paid to views, so you can choose to wake up to the sun-washed Mija Mountains, long looks over the garden or golf course, village views or in sight of the Mediterranean.
The two bedroom Family Suites are unusually spacious, sleep up to five and come with all sorts of nice touches. We particularly like the fact that you can choose to have a rainwater shower or a full bathtub in your luxe bathroom. Book a Family Suite and you also receive complimentary yoga or Pilates classes, as well as a complimentary experience from La Zambra’s Experience Programme, and access to the Spa Circuit. Thoughtful extras for children are included too, along with the complimentary 2-hours at the kids’ club each day, we already mentioned.
Alternatively, if you prefer a little more privacy, your kids are older or you’re planning a multi-gen family holiday, several rooms and suites at La Zambra can also be interconnected.
Yoga, Mood Spa, La Zambra
Making the most of grown-up time is another La Zambra talent
Mood Spa is one of the largest in Costa del Sol, a serene 2,000m² space dedicated to soothing, indulging, refreshing and restoring your mind and body – and quite possibly your soul too, it’s a very contemplative environment.
As well as several indoor pools and the spa circuit, there’s also a hammam, along with saunas and steam rooms. Although what really sets Mood Spa apart is its personal approach. Each guest is assigned their own therapist, so you’re in control of your experience or ‘spa journey’ as they call it here.
Naturally if you just want to float around in the pools, take a yoga or Pilates class or laze on the terrace, that’s fine. However, a full range of massage and beauty treatments is also available, covering everything from Japanese Kobido Facials to Hot Stone Therapy.
La Giralda and Seville Cathedral, Seville
Since you’re in Andalusia, why not go exploring?
La Zambra sits almost exactly between Malaga and Marbella: it’s only 30 minutes drive west of Malaga Airport. Mediterranean beaches are just a few minutes away, but a backdrop of the gentle Mija Mountains creates a peaceful sense of seclusion, something of a rarity in lively Costa del Sol, especially during summer. With that in mind, you may be happy to enjoy the tranquillity and not wander too far: two world class golf courses lie right next to La Zambra. But Andalusia is also all around, and that in itself is a powerful incentive to explore.
Nearby Marbella has one of Costa del Sol’s most charming old towns. If you can’t resist the pull of the mountains, dramatic Ronda is 90 minutes from the resort, and a drive through the grand Sierra Nevada brings you to Granada in an hour and 40 minutes. Cordoba is another of southern Spain’s great cities within easy driving distance. And the Andalusian capital, Seville, home to the Real Alcázar and the largest gothic cathedral in the world, is a mere two hours and 30 minutes from La Zambra.
La Zambra and the Mija Mountains, Andalusia
A little more about La Zambra
La Zambra is a reimagining of the iconic Byblos Hotel which opened in 1986 to become a favourite celebrity haunt and hideaway for royalty. Today it’s a Michelin Key recognised resort and part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, yet still retains its profound Andalusian design heritage and sense of exclusivity. So while it may have changed names, it is as much of an icon today as it ever was.
Now take a closer look and book your family getaway at La Zambra