Ikos Andalusia, a dreamlike luxury resort in Estepona

Choosing where to stay is just as important as any other decision we make when planning our holidays. Some people gravitate towards sharing experiences in a guesthouse, others prefer to stay close to nature and enjoy the peaceful life of a campsite. Travelling is a tailor-made journey and every person has different needs and priorities. Today, we will review a luxury all-inclusive resort on the Costa del Sol: Ikos Andalusia, a five-star paradise to relax and enjoy the warmth of Málaga in Estepona.

All you need to know about Ikos Andalusia

An award-wining experience

The Ikos group has redefined the concept of all-inclusive hotels with their luxury resorts. They have five resorts in Greece: Ikos Aria, Ikos Dassia, Ikos Oceania, Ikos Odisia and Ikos Olivia. Apart from that, there is the delightful Ikos Andalusia, and they have recently opened another resort in Mallorca: Ikos Porto Petro.

In 2021, Ikos Andalusia was recognised at the Connoisseur Circle Hospitality Awards with a special mention for “Newcomer Luxury All Inclusive Resort Europe”. It was also awarded with a Green Key for its commitment to sustainability. Let’s see what this five-star resort has to offer.

What to expect from Ikos Andalusia

This exclusive resort rests on the shores of the Costa del Sol. The whitewashed buildings of the hotel rise above the silky sand of the beach, and the river of Guadalmansa flows into the sea right next to it. Its modern luxury rooms and suites are always open to the azure Mediterranean landscape.

One can bathe in the swimming pools of the resort while watching the bright blue waters of the sea extending in front of it. This little oasis surrounded by palm trees and gardens lets us enjoy amazing views of the Mediterranean and enjoy the sun and the sea breeze of the Andalusian coast. Needless to say, the sunsets here are pure magic. Among the nine swimming pools of the resort, there are different indoor pools too, as well as a sauna. Its wellness area features a hot tub and a hammam for full relaxation.

Speaking of relaxation, Ikos Andalusia makes it incredibly easy to feel nice and comfortable. Apart from the free shuttle service and room service, free WiFi is also available throughout the resort. The spa and fitness centre offer personalised treatments, a thermal suite, a hair and nails salon, and workout facilities.

There are also several activities for all tastes, including golfing, team sports, fitness and wellness activities, tennis courts and different water sports, such as canoeing, paddleboarding, and pedalo adventures. It is worth noting that most of these are free for clients. Kids of all ages will be able to enjoy fun activities too, like sports activities, games, arts and crafts, cooking classes, football escapes, and so on. When night falls, adults will be able to enjoy elegant evenings with cocktails next to the sea, vibrant bars, live music and shows.

Of course, there is no all-inclusive resort without food. Ikos Andalusia stands out for offering a gourmet experience of Mediterranean, Asian, French, Italian, Spanish and Greek cuisines. Its nine restaurants provide a unique gastronomic experience crafted by Michelin-starred chefs, and one can taste up to 300 premium wines there.

Exploring Estepona and its surroundings

It is tempting to stay in Ikos Andalusia and not leave its facilities at all, but the surrounding area has many interesting things to offer too. Starting with Estepona, the so-called garden of the Costa del Sol. This gem in the province of Málaga is famous for its lovely streets with whitewashed houses decorated with flowers, an enchanting place to get lost in. Its old town is really worth visiting too, as well as the castle of San Luis, a 16^th-century medieval fortress in the middle of the town.

The nature reserve of Los Reales de Sierra Bermeja lies less than 30 kilometres from the resort. It spreads around the mountain range of Sierra Bermeja, and it is home to endemic plant species that make it even more special. There are many hiking routes to explore this natural treasure, which provides breathtaking views and a different look into the Mediterranean landscape.

Back to the coastline, we will replace the green forests of the nature reserve with silky strands of sand and glittering water. Indeed, there are many sun-kissed beaches worth discovering near Estepona. Some of them are Playa de la Galera and Playa de Cristo, which boasts a Blue Flag certification. The two beaches flanking Ikos Andalusia, known as Playa de Guadalmansa and Playa de Guadalmina, are really nice to visit too.

The beautiful city of Marbella lies nearby as well, a great option for a lovely getaway. It will only take us between 30 and 40 minutes by car, and we will be able to enjoy one of the most popular coastal treasures of Andalusia. Apart from its pristine beaches, the warm Mediterranean breeze and its natural landscape sheltered by the mountain of La Concha, the old town of Marbella and the square of Los Naranjos would charm any traveller who is curious enough to navigate its streets.