Along the golden stretch of coast from Marbella to Estepona you will find METT Hotel Beach and Resort, a newly-opened paradise waiting to be explored. Nicole Wood checks in for a weekend of relaxation on the Spanish coastline…
A 6am flight from Newcastle International Airport lands us in sunny Spain within a few short hours. A mid-morning arrival allows the warm embrace of the sun to hit us as we step off the plane – a feeling we all desire as the dark winter weather lingers.
Awaiting our arrival are the friendly folk from Costa del Sol Deluxe Transport. A stylish Mercedes equipped with laid back seats, comfortable headrests, the refreshing breeze of aircon and a cold bottle of water makes up our luxe transfer. A short 45-minute ride and we reach our destination – METT Hotel Beach and Resort.
Upon arrival I’m immediately impressed. The stunning decor, paired with the friendly and attentive reception staff are enough to wipe away the tired, airport-stressed persona I’m currently carrying. Swiftly seated into a comfortable armchair and presented with a welcome drink menu, we’re instantly put at ease as our check-in is processed and our bags promptly delivered to our room.
The METT welcome cocktail mirrors the crisp, refreshing ambience that’s felt as soon as you step into this impressive resort. There are no elements of a typical hotel here, instead you step into a new world which dissociates from everyday life.
It’s a place where worries are left behind and ultimate relaxation begins. The majestic olive tree standing tall in the centre of the lobby immediately catches the eye, before the jaw-dropping background of the sea in the distance transports us into a world of calm, peace and tranquillity.
The Interior
The interior design embraces the use of organic materials of cotton and wood, contributing to an overall sense of relaxation. A refined elegance if you will.
Natural greenery, whitewashed walls, ceramics tucked into cosy alcoves, and tasteful blue accents transport you to the heart of the Mediterranean. The calming check-in experience sets the tone for what we can already guess is going to be a blissful stay.
The vibe here is a refined, authentic and laid-back lifestyle. The bohemian chic design draws in like-minded guests. All looking for an enriching escape. One, that blends modern minimalism and easy living, all within a stunning environment.
The service style is discrete and precise but without frills or fuss. Each interaction comes with an open attitude. It encourages the art of conversation to flow freely without pressure or an agenda.
The five-star lifestyle property features 249 elegant and beautifully designed rooms and suites. Surrounded by state-of-the-art Azure Beach pool, with uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean Sea.
We check in to one of the sea view deluxe rooms overlooking the Azure Beach pool. It provides the opportunity to feel at the centre of the resort’s energy.
A comfortable double size bed equipped with crisp white linens and cloud-like pillows takes centre stage. The design is chic Andalusian with hand-picked furnishing and accessories, with great attention to detail creating a welcoming atmosphere.
A large LG TV adorns the wall. A fully equipped mini bar, luxury amenities and fluffy robes are just a few of the elegant touches we find in our room.
The bathroom is made up of a walk-in rain shower, double sink and a his and hers pamper package. A delightful and welcoming touch.
Marbella – Paradise On Earth
We quickly unpack, change into our holiday attire and head poolside. The staff here can’t do enough for you. No request is too much, which makes us feel like royalty.
The resort defines itself as a place for relaxed people with high expectations and Azure Beach helps do exactly that. The original of its kind resides in the heart of Dubai at the Rixos Hotel in the popular JBR area.
But here, nestled among the heavenly white sands and shimmering blue waters of the Mediterranean, Azure Beach sets the scene for the ultimate relaxed lifestyle in a luxury setting. Think kicking back by the infinity pool and unwinding to the soundtrack of sun-soaked satisfaction while sampling exotic cocktails, and mouth-watering Pan-Asian cuisine.
That’s what it’s all about here in Marbella. A selection of sushi, chicken yakitori, prawn tacos, mini wagyu burgers, club sandwiches and pizzas are just a few of the delicious dishes that we have the pleasure of tucking into when it comes to poolside lunches.
With unobstructed vistas, Azure Beach’s pool emerges as a sanctuary for sun worshippers. Adorned with exclusive island beds, decked out with cosy cushions and beach towels which are laid out for you upon your arrival, it caters to those who covet a life of opulence, offering the quintessential setting to bask in the day’s splendour amidst breathtaking surroundings.
To elevate the luxury experience further, private exclusive cabanas can be taken advantage of to create the ultimate poolside experience. Crafted to deliver utmost seclusion and relaxation set against the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean.
More Than Just A Hotel
This isn’t merely a hotel featuring a pool; it’s the pool that defines the essence of this place. Here, the fresh saltwater pool is the impressive focal point. Its vast expanse and ever-changing hues resemble a flowing river, transitioning gracefully from green to blue, seamlessly merging with the boundless sea beyond.
Life revolves around this aquatic wonder: guests recline on luxuriously comfortable loungers that rival beds, savouring sushi, sipping on cocktails and bottles of the finest wine presented in ice buckets, all while soaking up the sun, engrossed in gripping novels and enjoying toe-tapping moments from the in house live DJ.
Myself and my partner are simply at peace here. As the sun begins to set, a glass of vino and a delicious dinner awaits at Isola – a culinary gem inspired by the rich food traditions of the south and islands of Italy.
Isola offers a gastronomic escapade consisting of home-made pasta and Italian favourites. Think a taste of modern classics with an extensive wine selection sourced from the best producing regions in Italy.
Dinner In Marbella
Starters come in the shape of Carpaccio di Branzino, Carpaccio di Manzo, Tartare di Tonno con Avocado and more mouth-watering delicacies, but for us, it’s the Calamari Fritti (€24), that catches our eye.
Served with lemon and a paprika and lime mayo, it’s a zingy dish to kickstart the palate. Fresh clam pasta, fluffy pinsas and fragrant salads are the types of dishes you can expect when it comes to the mains.
For me, it’s the Linguine All’astice (€42), a hearty portion of lobster infused with a delicious tomato-based sauce and topped with basil. Each mouthful packs a hint of spice and leaves me craving more.
My partner goes for something a little more traditional and tucks into a delicious bowl of Tagliatelle alla Bolognese (€29). A saucy dish with bountiful flavours – it’s everything one wants from a bolognese.
A live band playing slow jazz creates the perfect atmosphere as we sip our wine and let our food digest before even considering dessert. When the time comes, I sweeten the deal with the Tortino al Cioccolato (€11), an indulgent haven of warm chocolate fondant served with a palate-cleansing hazelnut ice cream.
My travelling companion chooses the Tatelletta al Limone (€10), a sweet and tangy citrusy lemon curd with soft meringue that leaves him desiring more.
The foodie offering continues to impress at breakfast the following morning. Buttery pastries, fresh fruit, creamy yoghurts and refreshing juices are just a few of the sensational options you can choose from when it comes to the continental offering.
You can fill your plate to your heart’s content before ordering your cooked option from the à la carte menu. We choose bacon and eggs on toast and mini fluffy waffles with chocolate and raspberry compote, alternating the following day after envying other guests’ choices.
Time To Unwind
Our day is made up of a stroll along the beach, a dip in the sea and a long lazy afternoon by the pool. There’s no pressure here. The quiet and peaceful location of this resort encourages you to enjoy your days however you desire, at a pace that suits you.
Following a chaotic few months, simply relaxing and enjoying one another’s company is exactly what this holiday in Marbella is all about for us. I highly recommend a short taxi journey to either Estepona or Marbella for those who prefer to explore the cultural gems and vibrant towns.
A set menu at the elegant Bar de Lola is on the cards for tonight’s dinner plans. This stunning spot within the resort is the ideal place for those who wish to taste some of the best tapas.
Made with local products and accompanied by an exquisite selection of wines and cocktails, it’s the perfect setting for a romantic evening. Keeping guests interested with a vast and delicious foodie offering is something METT Hotel and Beach Resort is already succeeding at, and will continue to with the addition of Ammos, a beachfront Greek restaurant, next year.
If this idyllic resort wasn’t already relaxing enough, prepare for the grand opening of MOI. A luxurious 500-square-metre spa, set to debut later this year.
A holiday experience is not complete without the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation. At MOI Spa, skilled therapists are on hand to help you select the ideal treatment tailored to your holiday preferences. Whether it’s for soothing, pampering, de-stressing, or invigorating both your mind and body.
MOI Spa In Marbella
Unwinding and disconnecting are essential aspects of holiday life. MOI Spa in Marbella provides a wide array of services to help you achieve just that. The spa here offers a diverse range of options, catering to your every need. From timeless and traditional treatments such as massages and facials to an array of wellness treatments and beyond.
Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the cutting-edge gym equipped with Technogym facilities. Those who prefer personalised fitness guidance can take advantage of the professional personal training service.
At the core of its philosophy, METT founded itself with a commitment to sustainability. The spa exemplifies its dedication to eco-friendly practices by powering itself with 504 solar panels for self-consumption.
An intelligent heat pump efficiently controls the temperature of the pools, ensuring a comfortable swim without excessive energy consumption.
Notably, the resort proudly holds the esteemed North American BREEAM sustainability certificate. Its dedication to reducing environmental impact is evident throughout the property.
From the luxury rooms and the relaxing environment, to the chilled-out atmosphere, friendly staff and indulgent foodie offering. Each and every aspect of our stay has been a blissful escape from everyday life.
The sun is shining, and we are feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. What more could one want from a long weekend in Marbella?
