If a glass of bubbly makes you feel effervescent, then Marbella is the place to be… despite global economic gloom, the champagne lifestyle in the coast’s jewel in the crown is positively brimming over with a host of new venues in which to sip the finest of French tipples. Louise Cook Edwards pops the cork on Marbella’s new champagne bars…

Champagne is good for you. It’s official, so cracking open a bottle and enjoying a glass of fine French fizz is one great way to toast the new year, boosting your endorphins with that all important feel good factor, while maintaining a reasonable level of damage limitation in terms of the effects of alcohol. Yes, research has shown that two glasses of champagne a day may actually be good for your heart. It’s true; scientists at Reading University have shown that the polyphenols in plant chemicals found in the red and white grapes used in Champagne production positively affect levels of nitric oxide which, in turn, controls our blood pressure… And this is true of all types of sparkling wine, including cava, and Prosecco, so not just the more costly French variety…

This gem of wisdom can only be good news for Marbella’s hedonistic party crowd as the glitterati shimmy between one cocktail party and the next clinking designer flutes, or stepping out with a glamorous friend or two to hit one of several spanking new champagne bars in our jet-set paradise.

No doubt with Christmas in mind, the fabled Marbella Club Hotel recently relaunched the legendary Champagne Room, with a complete refurb by the establishment’s suave and supremely talented interior designer, Jean-Pierre Martel. Imparting his own inimitable brand of sumptuous quality and style, the result is a contemporary classic – perfect for the hotel’s eclectic blend of guests -including a firmament of stars and minor royals  – so this is one place to be served a perfectly chilled glass of Krug, Cristal or Veuve Cliquot while indulging in people watching of the highest order. The venue was recently the scene of the launch of Prince Alfonso Von Hohenlohe, the making of a legend, a new documentary movie about the Marbella Club’s highly regarded founder, Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe. Complete with members of the Hohenlohe dynasty, and a smattering of the local jet-set, the event was hosted by the most established face at the Marbella Club, Count Rudi von Shonberg, Alfonso’s cousin who has long been an integral part of the legendary hotel. www.marbellaclubhotel.com

Shopping with Style

Also opening in time for the Christmas rush was a welcome addition to the newly revamped department store El Corte Inglés Costa Comercial Centre, Puerto Banús. With a ground floor that can now match London or New York department stores, the Möet Hennessy themed champagne bar languishes in a quiet corner next to the gourmet club. Where better to take time out from a frenetic session of retail therapy than this haven of quiet effervescence.

This champagne bar keeps regular El Corte Inglés hours – from 10am, so it is ideal for a post- breakfast Buck’s Fizz, a pre-lunch aperitivo or a wind-down drink at cocktail hour. www.whatshot.es

Marbella’s ‘In’ Restaurants

Enjoying much success as one of the “in” restaurants of the moment in Marbella, Nueva Kaskada clients are frequently offered a glass of bubbly on the house as an effervescent start to a gourmet meal of signature cuisine from chef Ewald Fichthaler.  The restaurant has a cosy fireside bar – the perfect place for a pre-dinner drink or a night cap following a Fichthaler feast. New on the bar menu is an exclusive tipple that will appeal to fashionistas – champagne, wine and vodkas from avant-garde designer, Christian Audigier are now available with champagne at 130€ a bottle.  In rosé or premier cru varieties, Christian Audigier comes in the coolest possible bottles, adding a little extra colour to your champagne lifestyle… www.nuevakaskada.com

Nicol’s is a new champagne bar for the real connoisseur that knows a jerobaum from a Metusalah… The bar, which is located in the Edificio Coliseum on the Golden Mile offers a selection of well-known brands of Champagne, from Mumm and Veuve Cliquot at 20€ a flute,  through Louis Roderec Rosé at 1300€ a bottle, Krug Clos du Mesnil Brut at a  cool 2150€ the bottle.  The bar also purveys a selectin of specialist whiskies, Rums and spirits, and among the bodega of wines you will find the king of Spanish vintages, Vega Sicilia Unico 1996, at 360€ a bottle.  Nicol’s is clearly for a clientele of expensive tastes – with the only things “para picar” or to nibble on, 50 gr of Rio Frío caviar at 405€ or a plate of jamón Ibérico at 40€.  Tel: 951408690

Frontline 5 Star

For sipping fine champagne with a 5-star view to match, we can highly recommend Restaurant Chateau Mona Lisa. With a frontline Puerto Banús location, this respected French restaurant has just celebrated the arrival of a new house champagne… none other than Gosset Gran Reserva – a deliciously light champagne that presents none of the acidic fizziness of more popular brands. 

Made at the oldest winery in the celebrated French region of Champagne, according to a strict charter of excellence, Gosset is lauded worldwide as an exclusive and exquisite choice.  At 95 euros for a bottle of perfectly chilled Gosset, whether you own a superyacht, or not, you can afford to push the boat out at Chateau Mona Lisa… and to add to the experience, try and bag the front table upstairs which gives you a window onto the world of luxury yachting like no other…

www.chateaumonalisa.com

Don’t miss out on your chance to win one of three fantastic luxury hampers – a  handsome payback for doing your Christmas Shopping in Puerto Banús. The clock is ticking!

Aretusa, Chateau Mona Lisa and Carpaccio restaurants are getting into the spirit of Christmas with some generous gifts to Christmas shoppers this week in luxury shopping haven, Puerto Banús.

Showing more than a sprinkling of good will, around 50 businesses in the world famous leisure port have prepared a selection of irresistible gifts to package up into three luxurious Christmas hampers that will be raffled among their faithful clientele in an exciting draw on Thursday 22nd December at 6pm on the Muelle Ribera Levante, on the eastside of the frontline port, close to Restaurante Chateau Mona Lisa.

Blue Gourmet, which comprises three successful restaurants on the frontline of Puerto Banús is delighted to be offering its customers the chance to win a meal for two in each of their quality restaurants, Chateau Monalisa, Aretusa and Carpaccio.  The coveted Christmas hampers will be replete with a range of desirable luxury goods from the various boutiques, perfumeries, bars, restaurants and luxurious establishments participating in the Christmas hamper giveaway.

Get Shopping & Get Lucky!

Shoppers are not too late to enter this exceptional draw.  Simply head down to Puerto Banús for some seasonal shopping, not forgetting to stop off for some festive fare at the restaurants listed, and if you may still be in time to be gifted with a ticket for the lucky draw!

Coinciding with the day that the Spanish National Lottery dishes out millions to winning ticket holders of the famous “Gordo” prizes, 22nd December could just be your lucky day!

The romantic contemporary classic restaurant, Nueva Kaskada, opened its doors to Marbella society recently to present the autumn/winter season with an exciting new menu by celebrated German master chef, Ewald Fichthaler.

Fashionable Marbella was out in force at the celebratory cocktail party to officially mark the autumn/winter season at the chic restaurant that effortlessly combines a natural countrified location overlooking a waterfall, with contemporary décor and the finest cuisine for all pockets.

A purple carpet affair, guests enjoyed the restaurant in the warm twilight, suggesting just a hint of autumn after a glorious season of summer dining on the spacious terrace.  Chef Fichthaler presented a selection of delectable canapés and finger foods, giving the assembled guests a taster of the sensational new menu of his finest dishes.

The Signature Cuisine of Eward Fichthaler
Chef Fichthaler has an impressive track record having headed up a range of establishments in Singapore, Shanghai, Sidney, London, Switzerland and Spain, where he has been at the forefront of creative east meets west cuisine. Frequently cooking for royalty and international dignitaries in Michelin star restaurants, Eward Fichtaler is now conferring all of his exciting culinary experience and creativity onto the cuisine of Nueva Kaskada.

Welcoming the Autumn Winter Nights
The venue will continue to offer both inside and outdoor dining on the spacious terrace in the cozy interior, complete with open kitchen, terracotta floors, round tables, contemporary art and splashes of purple and blue creating an elegant ambience which extends to the stunning terrace which will continue to welcome guests with soft lighting and heaters.

Nueva Kaskada in the autumn/winter is a dream, with its trendy open fireplace, newly appointed cocktail bar and chillout lounge, and regular evenings of live piano music and after dinner DJs. A weekday lunch menu is available for just 15 euros a head. Nueva Kaskada’s legendary Sunday lunch, complete with Roast Beef & Yorkshire Pudding, is just 12.95€ per person.

Open for lunch from 12 noon, dinner from 7pm daily.  (Closed Tuesday). Open until 1.30am.
For reservations call Tel: 952 86 4478.

Nueva Kaskada Restaurante, Urb. La Montua, C/. Chorreadero, 39, 29601 Marbella

www.nuevakaskada.com

What could be more idyllic than staying in the middle of an orange grove in the wilds of Andalusia? Cortijo Los Mimbrales, in Huelva is just that – a series of converted farmhands’ cottages ensconced in the heart of a working farm of 300,000 orange trees spread over a thousand hectares.  For a quintessentially Andalusian country life experience, you’d be pushed to find a finer place… Report Louise Cook Edwards,  Photography Gary Edwards

Managing to be both simple and sophisticated at the same time, Cortijo Los Mimbrales is one of the most genuinely friendly places you could imagine in southern Spain, with relaxed, warm and obliging staff, a chilled out, yet formal ambience, with impossibly picturesque settings in which to relax at every turn.

Picture a row of pastel painted cottages, shaded by oaks and olives, fruit trees groaning with lemons, quince and pomegranates, charming patios populated with hibiscus and potted aspidistra, rustic terrace tables and chairs and tinkling fountains, and the scent of jazmin wafting on the late summer breeze, Cortijo Los Mimbrales has a “villagey” feeling, and the feeling of a real working community is palpable.

Not only have the simple workers residences been lovingly converted into stylish hotel rooms and villas, but many of the staff in the hotel are descendants of the original workers, rigorously trained for the challenges of a customer oriented business, so the sense of community is very real, and everyone seems to be sprinkled with the magical stardust of collective pride.

Understated Style
The rooms are designed in tasteful classical Andalusian style, the kind of décor you would expect to find in many a home in Seville  – with countrified prints, warm earthy colours, florals and stripes, cosy fireplaces, old photographs adorning the walls, Spanish art posters, low lighting harmonious, homely bathrooms with classy toiletries. Beds have fine linens and mosquito nets. The overall effect is more like a weekend in the country with friends – but with all the privacy and creature comforts expected in a boutique hotel. All 36 rooms have terraces, giving on to wistful patios, and there are myriad quiet corners in which to kick back and relax with a good book.  There are also four two-bedroom casitas with private gardens, and two one-bedroom houses for home-from-home comfort and privacy.  Guests staying in houses have kitchens that are cleaned daily by staff as part of the service – giving you the chance to cook and entertain without the clearing up.

When it comes to the communal areas, Cortijo Los Mimbrales is simply sensational, in a tastefully understated way.  The main pool is more of a giant water feature – a stunning Arab style alberca, tiled in mozaics, and surrounded by languid, hedged gardens protected by mature swaying palms. Just 10 kilometres from one of Spain’s most popular beach resorts, Matalascañas, basking on a wooden sunbed on the cool, refreshing lawn of the alberca, shaded by cipreses, willows and palms, you will feel a million miles away from the crowds. The other pool is more ordinary, but useful in the height of the summer when there are more guests to accommodate.

Just beyond reception, in the central area of the cortijo, is a spacious and inviting lounge.  The walls are adorned with evocative oil paintings, etchings and all things Andalusian while plenty of squashy sofas invite you to settle in and stay a while and enjoy the moment with an aperitivo, a game of cards, an after dinner drink or cosying up with a book.

The Taste of Andalusia
The restaurant, La Cantina, offers the same leisurely pace and formal friendliness – coupled with a creative cuisine that brings out the best of the Andalusian flavours and seasonal local produce, such delights as a fresh salad of watercress, salmon, anchovies and oranges – duck with raspberry sauce, local prawns, and the finest Andalusian ham.

The restaurant is a maze of patios, doors and terraces, with each quirky area providing the ideal setting for a leisurely dinner with friends and family, a romantic dinner a deux, or it can be transformed into a fairytale setting for a wedding or special corporate event – with the indoor Salon El Lince offering another delightful option.

Wake up to Heaven
Breakfast is another highlight at Cortijo Los Mimbrales.  Many hotels would do well to serve a breakfast as tasty and wholesome.  Starting with jugs brimming over with the freshest orange juice, you can rest assured that these oranges have not traveled far, and were possibly even plucked off a tree hours earlier…  Friendly faces will bring you excellent coffee – and even very good tea – something of a rarity in Spain – while the buffet is bursting with rustic bread and pastries, fresh fruit, excellent jamón serrano and freshly pulped tomatoes to spread on your bread with a drizzle of olive oil.  You will also be offered toast and homemade strawberry jam, or the deliciously zingy house marmalade.  With the morning sun breaking through the trees and warming your back, you will probably be greeted by the contented house cat “Mari Pili” with a plaintive “miaow” as she stretches and invites you to kick back and relax in her beautiful domain.

Once caught in the spell of Cortijo Los Mimbrales, you probably won’t want to go far… why would you?  In such harmonious surroundings, just strolling around the grounds, chilling by the pool, watching the world go by from your terrace or having a candlelit supper are such enjoyable experiences that the outside world can wait.  You can always jump on a bike and go for a ride through the orange groves and lose yourself in the Andalusian countryside.

But if you do wish to explore the area, Cortijo Mimbrales is well placed for walking, bird watching, searching for the Iberian lynx and enjoying the spectacularly unspoiled nature around Coto Doñana, just a five-minute drive from the hotel. The spectacular beaches of Matalascañas are but ten minutes away, while the area also lends itself to golf, horse riding and hiking.

CLICK HERE for feature about Doñana National Park on marbellas.com

Cortijo Los Mimbrales, Ctra. del Rocío a Matalascañas, km 30,5, Almonte Huelva

Tel: 959 442 237.

www.cortijomimbrales.com

Madrid, Marbella, Mallorca, Matalscañas… Matalascañas? This is one Spanish resort that is absolutely not on the international tourist trail, which makes a change… says Louise Cook Edwards. Photography Gary Edwards / Gran Hotel del Coto

Matalscañas sits on the Atlantic, on a far South-westerly point on the peninsula. One of Andalacía’s favourite summer vacation destinations, it could not be more different from Marbella.  Think simple chiringuitos, an unadorned paseo maritimo with just a few kioskos selling sweets and ice-cream, no shops, and no signs in English, German or Russian… No Matalascañas is a die-hard Spanish resort, offering no concessions to fussy foreigners demanding English beer or German Bratwurst, and how refreshing is that… ?

Even more refreshing is the absolutely spectacular beach – of the finest, white sand, stretching from the town of Matalscañas as far as the eye can see as it borders the protected nature reserve Coto Doñana for some 40 kms.

Location, Location, Location!

For the best possible view and access to this magnificent beach, there is only one place, the Gran Hotel del Coto that enjoys, indisputably, the best location in this bustling beach resort.

The hotel sits within 10,000 square metres of mature gardens, and is set at the end of the town’s promenade, overlooking the endless beach, and the dramatic stretch of protected Sand Dunes which make up the southerly part of the Doñana park, one of Europe’s most important nature reserves, and home to thousands of birds, resident and migrating, and more than a handful of endangered creatures, including the Iberian Lynx and the Imperial Eagle.

Stay in the town of Matalascañas, for a resort experience, but to feel the power of nature, then Gran Hotel del Coto is the only establishment to offer such a privileged location, and that all important feeling of space which makes such a difference to the relaxation factor on a vacation.

Even in August, the Gran Hotel del Coto can accommodate a full complement of guests in its 400 plus rooms without you feeling crowded out.  With several pools to cool off in (and yes, the temperature is a little lower in Huelva than the Costa del Sol) and plenty of palms to take a siesta under in the gracious gardens, you can make the hotel your own without disturbing anyone.

Entertainment

Children  – and adults too – can be entertained with games and water gymnastics, play ping-pong under a fresh sea breeze, book a game of tennis, or simply chill out with a book in the cool marble-floored lounges and bars.

You cannot visit this hotel without heading down to the amazing, iconic beach.  Take a walk or even a bike ride not long after sunrise, and catch the fishermen filleting their catch and feeding the scraps to the grateful seagulls swooping over the waves. This is a beach that invites you to walk for miles, to paddle in the warm water’s edge and play in the gentlest of waves.  And even if it is August and a sea of umbrellas borders the water, this is a beach that can effortlessly absorb the crowds like so many grains of sand.

And if you wish to venture into the dunes, there are designated walking areas, bumpy jeep safaris or camel rides available, for a quirkier, more memorable experience.

Rooms with a View

To get the full glory of the experience, it is imperative to look out over the sea, and preferably the dunes too, so specify this when you make a reservation.

One of the greatest features of this hotel, is the high impact décor of the corridors on each floor.  With full length photographs of the animals and nature to be found close by in Doñana, printed close-up, and in glorious detail, you feel like you could touch the animals or feel their breath, so vivid are the depictions.  The fixed gaze of the lynx at the end of the corridor is particularly high impact. But don’t gawp for too long; a guest might emerge from their room  – the doors are seamlessly covered by the images too – and catch you staring!

Food in Abundance

Many of the guests at the Gran Hotel del Coto opt for full or half-board – which is great value, and saves you the effort of making decisions about where to have lunch or dinner.  The buffet is plentiful and varied – with abundant quantities of fresh fruit and a good salad bar.  Cooked dishes are Spanish classics –with fresh fish, chicken and steaks cooked before your eyes.

La Rocina, what appears to be quite a simple café in the gardens turns out to be quite a good little restaurant with very correct service and some excellent creative Andalusian specialities. Here you can try the famous Matalscañas Clams, sophisticated fish dishes (such as salmon en croute with a prawn cream on a pea-soup),  the freshest king prawns, great gazpacho, and superbly presented huevos rotos, with the finest jámon de jabugo. The hotel would do well to smarten up the furniture and improve the signage as this is one understated eaterie, and tends to be used more for coffees and drinks than the serious business of eating.

The hotel has wi-fi zones, a little shop, a spacious bar, gym and hair salon, so there is little reason to venture away from the grounds, except to visit El Parque Doñana (see link below) or to revel in the delights of the spectacular beach.  With rooms from 81 euros/night depending on the season, and lovely friendly staff, this 4 star establishment is a classic among Spanish resort hotels.

www.granhoteldelcoto.com

Reservations: Tel: 959440017

Click HERE for Doñana National Park feature on marbellas.com

Searching for Lynx in 1,100 square kilometres of unbridled nature may be like finding a needle in a haystack, but the divine Doñana National Park in Huelva offers a host of other memorable back-to-nature experiences too.

Report, Louise Cook Edwards. Photography, Gary Edwards.

Pine woods, marshlands, lagoons, scrub land, sweeping sand dunes… El Coto Doñana is a microcosm that pays major homage to many of God’s creatures  – great and small. From endless flocks of migrating birds, hundreds of thousands of them, to scattered Wild Boar, Badgers and Deer, Doñana is, importantly, home to several of the planet’s most endangered species, including the Iberian Lynx, and the Spanish Imperial Eagle.

Young Black Kite

The world has Don José Antonio Valverde to thank for the existence of Doñana – and hopefully through the good work of the wardens and scientists that keep this extraordinary ecosystem in check, the survival of literally hundreds of species living in, and passing through the reserve. Back in the ’60s, Valverde, a scientist, convinced the Spanish authorities that Doñana was an exceptional natural environment in which many species could thrive, and that it ought to be preserved.
Despite attempts to develop tracts of her incomparably valuable land, and the ravaging of several natural disasters, Doñana National Park has been miraculously maintained – expanding, in fact, over its 40 years of existence. At 100,000 hectares, it is one of Spain’s key nature reserves, taking in areas of three provinces, Huelva, Cádiz and Sevilla. Arguably one of the most important natural habitats in Europe, Doñana was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994.

Animal “Big Brother”
With just 250 Iberian Lynx left on the planet, 75 of which are living in the shrub lands of Doñana, prevention of their extinction is high on the list of priorities of the Doñana authorities.  Every measure has been taken to protect the feisty feline, which, although top of the local food chain, still has problems securing adequate supplies, owing to a dwindling supply of Rabbits – a Lynx’s favourite meal. The authorities have created areas in which to cosset Rabbits, which end up as Lynx fodder, and at the Centro de Visitantes El Acebuche, within the Parque National extension of Doñana, visitors can watch a “Big Brother” style onscreen display of the lynx’s life as seen in “real time”.

Little Egret

Visitors are not allowed anywhere near the actual place in which the Lynx are being reared in captivity – before reintroduction into their actual habitat close by – but an on-screen sighting can still make you feel close to “the wild” and make you even more determined to prowl Doñana in search of a close encounter with a Lynx…

What to Do in Doñana?

With upwards of 400,000 visitors a year, losing yourself in Doñana is not an option – tours of the area are strictly controlled. There are clearly designated walking and mountain-biking routes, horse-riding excursions, and even camel rides over the dunes… But with a lot of ground to cover – literally – most nature lovers choose to discover Doñana on wheels. Jeep and minibus tours are only available through authorized companies, such as Discovering Doñana and Doñana Reservas, whose green minibuses and zippier Landrovers can be seen bumping over the marshes from the early hours, and again in the afternoons before sundown – the best times to snatch a fleeting glimpse of the elusive Lynx or doe-eyed Deer as they forage and hunt in the dewy still of the morning or the languid, golden dusk.

Jose Antonio with telescope

Complete with knowledgeable guides, the tours take from 3-30 people, depending on how interested they are in getting up, close and personal with the marvels of Doñana’s exceptional fauna… telescopes strong enough to reach the moon.

Up Close & Personal in Doñana
The thought of experiencing hundreds of acres of totally unspoiled countryside is a privilege, and one that is best handled at your own pace, choosing your own route and with the facility to stop the jeep and tiptoe outside to grab a photo of a particularly timid and reticent creature, if you are lucky, a lynx, or a booted eagle… For this reason, a private tour in a 4 x4, at 50€ per person is a small price to pay to take you that little bit closer to nature.

Clockwise from top left: Squacco Heron, young Glossy Ibis, Spoonbill and Wild Boar.

The other advantage of a private tour is having the guide all to yourself, especially true for bird watchers, who can bombard the guide with questions. Discovering Doñana can provide serious nature lovers and bird watchers with seasoned authorities on all things Doñana, such as the amazing José Antonio Sánchez – whose hawk like approach to bird watching will ensure you don’t miss a trick.

Camouflaged Little Owl

Under José Antonio’s expert guidance, the whole spectacle of Doñana came to life from the moment we entered the Park at 8am.  Passing the horses grazing on the vast marshes behind El Rocio, as we reached the border of the Coto Doñana, José Antonio pointed out the weary night herons returning to the shelter of the bushes after their nocturnal wanderings.
Heading straight into the territory of the Iberian Lynx, José Antonio knew at exactly what pace to drive the jeep, or when to still the engine, in the hope of observing the King of the Doñana food chain in action… On this occasion, we were not lucky enough to spot the lynx prowling for prey, but we did see a duo of deer enjoying a breakfast of dew-drenched grass, a fresh Badger trail, and wild boar snuffling in the undergrowth as well as warren-loads of Rabbits, but sadly no Lynx in hot pursuit.

Pink Flamingo

Winged Wonders
With some 300 species of birds living in, or passing through Doñana on their migratory route to and from Africa, feathers reign supreme in southern Europe’s natural wonderland. With everything from Pink Flamingos and Spoonbills busying themselves in the lagoon, little Owls nesting in perfect camouflage, to the rare and endangered Spanish Imperial Eagle, Doñana is heaven for creatures of the feathered variety. In just one brief visit – an idyllic five hour route on dirt tracks through the wild olive groves, shrub land and marshes – we witnessed some 25 different species of bird – including many predators and scavengers such as the Black Kite, Booted Eagle, Kestrel, Griffon Vulture, Jackdaws and Ravens and Montague Harrier.

Young Purple Gallinule/ Swamp Hen

Great White Egret

Thanks to José Antonio’s expert knowledge of every tree, bush and blade of grass, we also spotted the Squacco Heron, Purple Swamp Hen, Sandpipers, Wheatears, Greenshanks, Crested Larks, Wood Pigeons, Magpies, Cattle Egrets, Ducks, Ibis and a Roller – creating a flying rainbow of colours and forms.
As many varieties of bird, including Ducks and Geese bed down for the winter in Doñana, the array of birds nesting in Doñana reaches a peak in Spring when many species return from Africa to breed, raining down in Doñana and delighting onlookers with their courtship rituals.
Visita Doñana provide excellent binoculars and telescopes strong enough to clearly view bird markings at several kilometres, you will be able to see all creatures great and small, simply going about their lives undisturbed.
Doñana is patrolled by 100 wardens who scour the National Park in jeeps, checking up on the animals’ welfare, and making sure visitors stick to designated paths and don’t disturb the flora or fauna. The Juan Valverde visitors’ centre, is close to a lagoon where flamingos can be observed in all their glory. At the nearby Parque Natural, to the west of the National Park, you will find the Centro del Visitante El Acebuche, where Lynx can be viewed on screen in real time.  You can also take several walks on wooden walkways taking in more idyllic views, and observe a plethora of natural wonders.

A Beach without End
Doñana is the back garden of Matalascañas, a popular beach resort in Huelva. Busy, but conserving an old-fashioned charm, and refreshingly free of foreign influences, at 30 kilometres long, the beach of Matalscañas is possibly the most spectacular, unspoiled sandy beach in Spain. The northerly entrance to Doñana is through the mythical village of El Rocío, famous for the annual pilgrimages to the Virgin del Rocío when a million devotees travel across Spain, many by horse & carriage, and descend on the village to pay homage to the diminutive effigy. El Rocío itself is like a set from the Wild West, with dusty, sandy streets to cushion the wheels and hooves of the pilgrims – and many tourists who flock to the fascinating town.

With Discovering Doñana and Doñana Reservas, three grades of tour are possible:

Group visits

Max 30 people
4 hours
26€ per person
children under 7 years, 13€.
Special Visits

Max 14 people
4 hours
35€ pp
children 20€

Guided Tour

From 3-14 people
5 hours
totally tailored to your needs
5 hours – 50€ pp
8 hours – 85€ pp

Doñana Reservas

www.donanareservas.com
Tel: 959442474

Discovering Doñana

Offers excellent insight into the area, particularly for birdwatchers and wildlife experts.

www.discoveringdonana.com

info@discoveringdonana.com

Office : +34 959 442 466

Mobile : +34 620 964 369

Aires Africanos

www.airesafricanos.com

Parque Dunar de Doñana for guided camel rides through the dunes of Matalscañas.

Tel: 959 448 577

Where to Stay
El Cortijo de los Mimbrales
An idyllic slice of Andalucian life is on offer at this charming, cortijo-style hotel in the midst of 300,000 orange trees.
www.cortijomimbrales.com

Gran Hotel del Coto
A classic Spanish family hotel on the beachfront of Matalscañas.  Stunning views across the dunes, and unspoiled beaches as far as the eye can see.
www.granhoteldelcoto.com

A breathtaking view awaits you as you take the twists and turns up hill to the attractive new Hotel Hermitage Casares. Commanding a magnificent bird’s eye view across wooded countryside to the Mediterranean, the Rock of Gibraltar and the exotic outline of Morocco’s Atlas mountains beyond it is the kind of view even us complacent residents find enthralling – reminding us of the beauty of the region, and one which out-of-towners will find simply monumental.

Luxury In Nature
Located just twelve kilometres from the coastline, and an easy twenty-minute ride from the heart of Marbella – Hotel Hermitage manages to seem more remote than it really is. With the simple soundtrack of birdsong, here you find a Hermitage of a modern variety, combining unbridled nature and rustic charm with all the style and service expected of a modern, boutique hotel establishment. Opened in November 2009, the first of three such establishments born out of a new concept offering luxury in nature. Surrounded by several official rambling routes, from the Hotel Hermitage Casares you can take a hike into the hills, go adventuring on a mountain bike, or hire a horse for a trot out into the campo… the village of Casares is one of the legendary White Villages, a less exploited version at that…

5-Star Service, 3-Star Price Tag
Respecting the environment, the hotel has been designed around existing trees, has an ample swimming pool and plenty of places of natural beauty in which to kick back,  relax and reflect. With its elegant rustic salons, simply oozing style, an attractive restaurant with panoramic views to the Med, a bijou bodega, and adjacent meeting room – for business coaching or company incentives, Hotel Hermitage offers a range of hotel facilities way beyond those expected of a 3-star establishment.

The 15 rooms and suites are all individually styled to high specifications, with comfortable quality furniture, well-appointed bathrooms, sumptuous beds with luxurious monogrammed linens. What with flat-screen TVs, branded bathrobes, toiletries and slippers, well-stocked mini-bar and built in safe in every room, the Hotel Hermitage is offering exceptional added value.

Five of the suites – which take their names from local trees, such as the Olivo, Alcornoque and Pinsapo – have their own romantic fireplace, while several lead out into a private garden.  All the rooms have their own terrace, ranging from cosy and petite to glamorous and grand.  Sit back with a good novel and enjoy a chilled fino and a few slivers of jamón, or a full-blown dinner for two, it is all just a call to room service away…

The Fine Food Factor

The Celima restaurant at Hotel Hermitage is already attracting attention from the Coast’s foodies…  The  establishment has secured the services of Rod Williams , a top executive chef from Manchester (UK),  whose impressive career has seen him head up the kitchens for eight years in Spain including Sotogrande where he ran his own restaurant. The new menu has a tantalizing mix of  Mediterranean, Asian and North Africa recepies. Rod’s repertoire of dishes based on the freshest local Mediterranean produce, including fruits, vegetables and herbs from the hotel’s own kitchen garden, and local game specialities. Gourmet evenings,  wine tastings and special seasonal menus are sure to be a key attraction of this chic, country hideaway.  A superb three-course lunch menu is available every day, Monday to Friday for just approx 15€ per head, including VAT.

Complete with a cosy lounge bar with an open fireplace for the winter months, a TV room, and all the latest travellers’ must-haves including complimentary wi-fi, and parking and 24- hour room service,the Hotel Hermitage Casares is already winning over clients with its personalized, bespoke approach.

Introductory welcome offers include a double room, a complimentary bottle of cava and breakfast for two for just 85 euros, VAT included.

Hotel Hermitage Casares, Paraje de la Celima s/n, Ctra de Casares MA8300, km 10, Casares, Spain.

For reservations Tel: 952 895639 www.hotelhermitage.es

PRICES CORRECT AT TIME OF PUBLISHING – However we recommend you please check with the hotel before booking.

Earth, Wind & Fire, work their magic in Marbella with a high-energy, feel good show to remember.  Report: Louise Cook  Photography: Gary Edwards

With a glorious Full Moon beaming down, and a clear star-filled sky above,  smooth funksters the Earth Wind & Fire could not have had a more perfect Marbella night on which to perform to a packed venue at the Puente Romano Tennis Club.

The 3000 strong crowd, eager to party filed into the venue from around 8pm, filling up seats around the central court venue, and the numerous VIP seats and tables in front of the stage, as twilight set in and the air of expectation became palpable.  Well known radio DJ and presenter, Paul Breen Turner hit the stage to greet the crowd on behalf of the band, and rouse them into an enthusiastic welcome of the unannounced curtain raiser.

The Santana Project, a respected Santana tribute band warmed up the crowd with the rhythmic latino classics so loved by the audience, building up to a crescendo of guitar solos while the singers performed the selection of songs with a certain charisma, connecting with the crowd and leaving them ready for the act they had all come to see…

In the line up on stage at the Puente Romano was founder member, Al McKay. Lead guitarist, songwriter, producer and musical arranger, McKay has been instrumental in Earth, wind & Fire’s six Grammy wins, four American Music Awards and place in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.

Disco Divos

Reviving the slick sounds of 70s and 80s disco at the prestige open air concert venue,  the multi award winning line up quickly whipped up a storm with a series of hi–energy tracks. With three dynamic front men, 4 brass, lead guitarist Al McKay, and bass, guitar, keyboard, drums and percussion, the 12 strong band created an alchemy that made their sound more than the sum of its parts – and very quickly, the crowd in the bag…  Two or three songs into the set, upbeat classic Gotta Get You into My Life had the audience up and out of their chairs, rising to the challenge of the lead singer, “You all got to bring on the party!!”

Playing their way through the band’s legendary repertoire  which swings effortlessly between  feel-good foot-tapping pop, full on funk and dreamy ballads, giving individual band members a chance to be the Shining Star of the moment with screeching sax solos, strident trombone, slick guitar solos and honky tonk keyboards, while the three singers showed all their virtuosity with the high notes of their heartbreaking classic, After the Love is Gone.  Shimmering in their black and silver stage garb, the dance routines were so seamless, the three stars of the show could probably do them in their sleep.

The Real Deal

In the line up on stage at the Puente Romano was founder member, Al McKay. Lead guitarist, songwriter, producer and musical arranger, McKay has been instrumental in Earth, Wind & Fire’s six Grammy wins, four American Music Awards and place in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame.  Transcending musical genres of the time, the band, founded by Maurice White, created a blend of jazz, African and gospel music which ended up as pure pop, and their particular sound became popular with both black and white Americans.

With the irresistible track Getaway, the band seemed to flick a switch which notched the crowd up into a higher gear, and the audience could be seen boogying and cooing in delight, and the funky riffs just kept coming until following a brief curtain call, it was not adiós, but hasta luego, with the universally awaited Boogie Wonderland – the band’s 1978 hit about addictive nightly clubbing.  In no hurry to bring the night to a close, the band continued with several more songs before calling it a day, and leaving behind a little bit of their musical magic in Marbella’s eclectic concert history.

Hot on the heels of Joaquin Cortes, Jamiroquai, a Queen Tribute Band, George Benson, Rafael Amargo, Mica Paris and Soul2Soul we can still look forward to Earth, Wind & Fire,  Kid Creole and Tom Jones… Summer 2011 is an  entertainment paradise in Marbella… reports marbellas.com

Marbella may have become too small for the super groups who will only play to crowds of 50,000 plus, but this summer is proving that Marbella society still has a thirst for quality entertainment, and in the next few weeks the culture hungry crowd will be royally entertained by some of the finest names in the business.

Tom Jones – Live in Concert.

18th August – Living legend, Tom Jones  will be making a star appearance on 18th August at the Tennis Club Puente Romano – his first concert in the area in a decade.  As  the years pass by, Jones loses none of his charisma and sex-appeal, and his performance is all set to crank up the temperature on an already sizzling Marbella summer.

The music of Tom Jones traverses musical eras and genres, appeals to the young and old, mainstream and cutting edge. The Godfather of modern soul and sex symbol to 3 generations of women, Marbella audiences can expect the star to be performing his classics including Kiss, Delilah, Sex Bomb and new tracks from his critically acclaimed album Praise & Blame. The concert begins at 8pm. Tickets are from 90€ to 250€ plus handling fee.  Available from ticketmaster.es.

A Stylish Final.

And on 25th August, just before the sun goes down on Marbella’s summer madness, Kid Creole & the Coconuts will bring some of their tropical sunshine to the ultimate party venue, Nikki Beach. Playing a set of his signature slick blend of feel good latino party music with killer lyrics, Kid Creole and his band will be followed by the foxy singer turned DJ, Sophie Ellis Bextor who will keep the party mood going until 5am.  Tickets will be 50€, or 30€ for just the after-show party. A delectable pre-show dinner with a Creole twist is the perfect complement to the feel-good event of the summer (also 50€). For reservations contact Nikki Beach on Tel:  952836239. www.nikkibeach.com

DATES IN SHORT – What’s been and what’s coming up…

21st July – Nikki Beach
Diamond Party

23rd July – Playa del Pinillo Marbella
Life Festival – DJs John Shelvin, Fonsi Nieto, Ruben Morán, Rebeka Brown

30th July – Finca La Concepcion
Millionaires White Summer Party

3rd August – Auditorio Malaga
Jamiroquai

4th August – Castillo de Sohail Fuengirola
Jamie Cullum

5th August – Playa del Pinillo Marbella
Queen Tribute

6th August – Villa Padierna Hotel
Starlite Gala

13th August – Puente Romano Tennis Club
Earth, Wind & Fire

18th August – Puente Romano Tennis Club
Tom Jones

25th August – Nikki Beach
Kid Creole & the Coconuts
followed by DJ tunes from Sophie Ellis Bextor

2nd October – Nikki Beach
The Grand Closing Red Party Weekend

Simply Subscribe & Win!

On 27^th July, Marbella’s 1st and original online magazine, marbellas.com will be celebrating 6 years in cyberspace, and to celebrate we are sharing the love with you, our valued readers… Yes, we have six sensational prize giveaways to help you squeeze the very most out of the magnificent Marbella summer!

With a host of scintillating events and activities coming up, Marbella’s summer is more action packed than ever before.  Here at marbellas.com we are proud to announce the following fantastic prizes are up for grabs among our valued subscribers – so if have are not already subscribed to our monthly newsletter. Simply enter your details in our subscriber box on the home page, and you will be in with a chance to get lucky!

Diamond Life Nikki Style

Win 6 x invitations to the Nikki Beach Diamond Party – Thursday 21 July

Marbella’s chicest party venue is about to get a glittering makeover for the drop-dead gorgeous Nikki Beach Diamond Party coming up on Thursday 21 July.  Now the hottest mid-season event at the eternally cool luxury beach club, the Diamond Party is the trendiest gala in town – and you have the chance to win 6 x invitations!

Get dressed up in alluring black & gold  – the strict dress code for what is fast becoming one of the Marbella season’s most glamorous events. Kicking off with drinks from 7pm, guests can peruse a private showroom of Gomez & Molina  items – a special collection of not-to-be-missed Swarowski crystal, bejeweled bags, displayed to dramatic effect on the VIP terrace.

Guests of the Diamond Party will also enjoy a fashion show of evening wear by Marbella’s favourite fashionista, Patricia Nahmad, along with accessories by Shape Ole, followed by a raffle of a piece of jewellery. Event sponsors include Hugo Boss and Calvin Klein.

An especially sumptuous gala dinner menu has been devised by Nikki Beach’s talented chefs, at 75€ per person (&10% service charge). With live music, dancers and extra special shimmering summer décor, the party continues until 2am. Diamond Party tickets are available from Nikki Beach at 25€ pp including a drink. Tel: 952836239. www.nikkibeach.com

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire for a Night?

Lovers of the Rat Pack era will be in their element at the Millionaire’s White Summer Party, coming up at Finca La Concepción, Marbella on Saturday 30th July. Introducing an “Evening from Las Vegas” the event will offer all the glitz, glamour and style of the glory days of Hollywood, with the sounds of Frank Sinatra – as interpreted by accomplished sound-alike Stephen Triffitt. Acclaimed as one of the best cover artists in the world, he will perform a wide repertoire of Sinatra classics with the full backing of a 22-piece Big Band Orchestra, and a flurry of Las Vegas showgirls.

The night will continue with Maxine Barrie – performing as Shirley Bassey and follow on with Eric Conley paying homage to the late, great Barry White. He’ll be setting the mood for a party hosted by International DJ Rusty Egan, who will be playing classic Studio 54 disco tracks until the early hours. VIP ticket holders will be treated to a champagne reception with Veuve Clicquot.

Marbellas.com is delighted to have two VIP tickets to give away to subscribers.  Winners will be announced on our website and by email to the chosen few!  To purchase tickets priced 120€ each, visit  www.millionairessummerparty.com

Catch Cullum at the Castle of Sohail!

One of the greatest talents of his generation, the coast is honoured to be hosting a concert by celebrity pianist and jazz singer, Jamie Cullum.

The seriously charismatic Cullum will be taking to the stage on 4th August. The fabulously talented pianist and jazz singing virtuoso, Jamie Cullum will be delighting audiences at the Castillo de Sohail, Fuengirola, an atmospheric outdoor venue in which to enjoy one of the summer’s rarest treats.

Don’t miss the chance to see a truly talented and magnetic star performing live on the Coast. The young English singer, songwriter, pianist and multi instrumentalist is renowned for his spontaneity and genius improvisations.

With tickets from 35€, this is a rare chance to catch one seriously talented young man in concert.  For details contact www.riffmusic.org Tickets are available from www.elcorteingles.es and Ticketmaster.com.

Enter our marbellas.com prize draw and you could be the lucky recipient of 2 x Jamie Cullum tickets in our 6^th anniversary promotion. Simply subscribe and win!

The Queen of Concerts!

On 5th August – the beach will come alive with the memory of Queen, thanks to Tribute band Gary Mullen & The Works who will perform One Night of Queen at the Playa del Pinillo arena Marbella.  The date marks exactly 25 years since Queen and Freddie Mercury played their last-ever European concert to 25,000 people in Marbella’s football stadium.

Yes, 25 years later to the day, Marbella will once again rock to the sound of Queen’s greatest hits including Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You, Killer Queen and We are the Champions.
Tickets are from 30€, and are available from a number of outlets including Ticketmaster, El Corte Inglés and FNAC.

Marbellas.com will be offering 2 x tickets to One Night of Queen in our upcoming 6th anniversary giveaway to subscribers. Winners will be informed by email and live on marbellas.com! Keep reading!

Grand Canyoning with Team Extreme!

For the adventurous spirits, marbellas.com is offering you the chance to win one of the breathtaking adventure experiences from Marbella’s Team Xtreme – River Canyoning for two in Marbella!

Canyoning is a unique way to explore the river gorges and canyons in Marbella’s stunning countryside! It is without doubt the most exhilarating and refreshing way to enjoy a summer’s day, and Team Xtreme provides all the equipment you need and an expert guide.

The marbellas.com 6^th anniversary prize of a Canyoning trip for 2 people is worth over 130€. To find out more or to book other adventure activities with Team Xtreme this summer, visit www.teamxtreme.es Tel:  (+34) 952 768 349  for 100% adrenalin, 100% adventure!

Meet Your Match!

Summer will end with a grand slam style tennis line up at the Marbella Masters held at Hotel Puente Romano on Aug 25-27.

Tennis legends Bjorn Born and Yevgeny Kafelnikov will compete on the famous clay courts. Hotel Puente Romano and Northern Vision are delighted to announce the full line-up.

In addition, to the 11 time Grand Slam Champion, Bjørn Borg and former World Number 1, Yevgeny Kafelnikov will be joined by Wimbledon Champion Pat Cash and former top 15 players Younes El-Alanoui and Ronald Agenor. Iranian tennis trickster, Mansour Bahrami will also return to the Masters this year.

Talking ahead of the tournament in August, Bjorn Borg has said: “I am really looking forward to returning to Puente Romano Tennis Club where l have so many friends and great memories.”

As a member of the ATP, the Puente Romano Tennis Club has hosted various prestigious international tournaments over the years including the Davis Cup and the WTA. Today, the club still attracts the world’s greatest tennis players and fans.

Tickets are available from El Corte Ingles and Ticket Master.For more information please visit the official website at http://www.marbellamasters.es.  Take your chance and you may win 2 x tickets to the event courtesy of marbellas.com’s 6^th anniversary reader giveaway.  Simply subscribe and win!

TO ENTER THE COMPETITION SIMPLY ENTER YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS INTO THE BOX ON THE marbellas.com homepage under the ‘Subscribe & Win’ Box – GOOD LUCK !!

AND……………..

ALL new subscribers will receive a 50% discount for their chosen company on marbellas.com advertising placed before August 27th 2011