With the Costa del Sol welcoming more than 12 million people every year, the Spanish region is one of the most popular hubs in the world. That means a lot of the Costa del Sol's most beautiful beaches can be busy, but there are plenty of places to explore away from the tourist traps. Take Nerja, which has a more laid-back feel than most Costa del Sol resorts, while Mijas is a picture-perfect archetypal Andalusian village. Guests who book luxury villas in Costa del Sol have the chance to enjoy a mixture of everything this wonderful location has to offer.

Stunning scenery and sea views

As well as hot, sunny weather around the calendar, the other thing that staying in luxury villas in Costa del Sol guarantees is the chance to soak up stunning scenery. Views across the Mediterranean are provided by the more than 120 kilometres of coastline that this region has to offer. Indeed, many of the luxury holiday villas in Costa del Sol at Holidu have sea views, as well as a private pool where guests can relax away from the crowds. Accommodation ranges from luxury apartments with balconies to large, sprawling luxury villas in Costa del Sol that can comfortably house all the family, with room for as many as 14 guests. No wonder so many people return to their favourite luxury holiday villas in Costa del Sol year after year.

Travellers and activities

Costa del Sol for relaxing and sunbathing

Most people who book luxury villas in Costa del Sol will likely want to spend plenty of time at the beach. The good news is that the region enjoys around 300 sunny days every year, so good weather is almost guaranteed no matter the month people visit. Beaches can get very busy but it is possible to find quieter sandy shores too. Among the unspoiled sanctuaries in the Costa del Sol include Cabopino - near Marbella - and Cala de la Doncella, which is well worth the effort required to reach it.

Costa del Sol for fantastic food

Naturally, tapas is one of the things people booking luxury villas in Costa del Sol will be looking forward to trying. But the area has a range of gastronomic delights to offer. The Costa del Sol is actually home to myriad Michelin-starred restaurants. Enjoy top Japanese food at Nintai, modern fare at the tiny Skina, or creative cuisine at Messina, run by chef Mauricio Giovanini. There is fantastic food for everyone in the Costa del Sol, but if fine dining does not appeal, there is always top tapas in virtually every bar in the area.

Top 7 travel tips in Costa del Sol

1. Go whale watching and spot dolphins

The waters around the Costa del Sol are rich with marine life, so guests who book stays in Costa del Sol luxury villas are recommended to go whale watching during their trip. March to October is seen as the best time to spot dolphins and whales off the coast of Spain.

2. Explore historic Malaga

While it is tempting to stay close to the coast, heading inland can be very rewarding. Many of the millions of tourists who go to the Costa del Sol each year likely do not realize Malaga is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Andalusia's cultural centre has sights such as the Alcazaba and a pair of Pablo Picasso museums - the artist was born here.

3. Eat espetos

The Costa del Sol has plenty of delicacies for foodies to enjoy, but espetos are among the most famous. Found at many of the region's best beach bars, espetos are sardines that have been roasted over wood fires. It is recommended to enjoy them with a cold glass of wine.

4. Climb the peak of Mount Calahorro

The Costa del Sol has plenty of perfect places for sensational scenery, but perhaps the best can be found from the peak of Mount Calahorro. The good news is there is a 15-minute cable car journey from next to the Tivoli World theme park. On the clearest days, it is possible to see both Gibraltar and even Africa, so do not forget to take a camera.

5. Explore the Cueva de Nerja

The Caves of Nerja are a must-visit spot for anyone staying in luxury holiday villas in Costa del Sol. Only discovered in the 1950s, the caves held human remains from the Bronze Age when they were first found. Check out the prehistoric cave paintings and freaky-looking stalagmites and stalactites. The caves are also where Nerja's summer series of shows are held each year.

6. Shop at Puerto Banus

The rich and famous flock to Marbella and Puerto Banus, which has a marina that houses hundreds of the most incredible yachts. Luxury boutiques are also found here with dozens of stores to shop at. Perhaps save the souvenir shopping for somewhere more affordable, though!

7. Tour a winery

Andalusia and the Costa del Sol are known for their wine, with this part of Spain having a number of wineries where guests staying in luxury villas can book a tour. Sample some of the best wines Spain makes.

Frequently asked questions about luxury villas in Costa del Sol

Which types of amenities are available at the luxury villas in the Costa del Sol?

When looking at the facilities offered by Spain-Holiday, it seems that the luxury villas in the Costa del Sol offer everything that travellers dream of! Here, luxury villas generally include a variety of amenities, the most popular being: Wi-Fi (91%), air conditioning (87%), and barbecue (82%)... Pretty cool!

How are the luxury villas rated in the Costa del Sol?

The luxury villas in this destination often receive many positive reviews. 36% of the luxury villas in the Costa del Sol have excellent reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars!

Are the luxury villas in the Costa del Sol pet-friendly?

The percentage of luxury villas that accept pets and those that do not is quite even. Therefore, it is advisable to not wait too long to make your reservation to make sure that your furry friend can join you on holiday.

Do the luxury villas in the Costa del Sol tend to come with Wi-Fi?

Of course! According to Spain-Holiday's database, 91% of luxury villas in the Costa del Sol include Wi-Fi. This means that you will be able to access your emails and favourite social media sites at any time!

What are the prices like for luxury villas in the Costa del Sol?

A big percentage of luxury villas in the Costa del Sol (76%) cost less than £100 a night. This is the perfect destination for reserving an affordable luxury villa!

Do the luxury villas in the Costa del Sol usually have a fireplace or a swimming pool?

Definitely! Judging by last year's information, 67% of luxury villas in the Costa del Sol are equipped with a swimming pool. It is the perfect destination for a long summer weekend! 82% even have a barbecue!

Are the luxury villas in the Costa del Sol suitable for holidays in big groups or better for a holiday as a small group?

Here, according to the information gathered last year, 54% of luxury villas are suitable for groups of up to eight travellers, and 51% of these luxury villas are made up of at least four bedrooms. But 98% of luxury villas also accept up to four travellers, and 98% of the luxury villas include at least two separate bedrooms. This is, therefore, the ideal destination for large and small families!

When planning a luxurious trip to the Costa del Sol, are luxury villas a good choice?

Sure! The luxury villas in the Costa del Sol are ideal for spending a few days on holiday. However, if you are looking for unique holiday accommodation, we advise you not to wait too long to book, since the availability of luxury villas fills up quickly. In the Costa del Sol, 67% have a pool, 69% have a garden and 4% have a sauna. Also, if you are looking for a lot of space, 98% of the luxury villas can accommodate big groups, and 69% have green spots in the surrounding area.

When is the best time of the year to travel to the Costa del Sol?

Looking at the characteristics of the luxury villas in the Costa del Sol, we can highly recommend this summer holiday destination. We can make this claim because the data shows that 67% of the properties here have a swimming pool, 69% have a garden and 87% have air conditioning. What are you waiting for? Reserve a luxury villa in the Costa del Sol so you can enjoy your holidays.