La Zambra Resort

Situated amid the rolling hills of the Costa del Sol in the Mijas municipality, just a short drive from both the coast and Malaga’s airport, La Zambra benefits from a peaceful setting with sweeping views of the Mediterranean and, more immediately, the lush green lawns of a sprawling golf course. The climate in May is perfect and brings warm days and cool evenings. They say Marbella has the best micro-climate in Europe and after a few days in May, Mr Smith and I could see why.

The property’s architecture thoughtfully references the region’s heritage, incorporating local craftsmanship through handmade tiles, carved woodwork and natural materials. It’s clear that regional artisans and traditional techniques played a role in creating an environment that is contemporary yet rooted in local character. Magenta and orange bougainvillea, heaving lavender bushes, ancient olive trees, soaring palm trees and perfect cypress trees combine with whitewashed walls, arched walkways, charming courtyards, a Moorish patio and glazed cobalt roof tiles to create something that feels very fresh and modern, but also authentic and in keeping with the area.

I was travelling with my husband and kids, and our accommodation was comfortable and well-designed, with thoughtfulness and care from housekeeping evident in the small, personalised touches for the children left in our room each day — notes, treats, toys, crafts, children-size slippers and robes, details that made our stay all the more welcoming and special. 

The hotel’s relaxed but stylish atmosphere extended to the outdoor areas, including several well-maintained gardens and open spaces perfect for children to explore. There are two outdoor pools, one well suited to children with a large shallow area, which was perfect for our toddlers. We stayed for two nights and didn’t leave the hotel, taking every opportunity to relax and unwind after a busy start to the year.

The kids' club was a highlight. It was very quiet (since it was off-season and during term time), but hosted a variety of activities — arts and crafts, cooking lessons and nature walks — all of which went down very well with our kids. They came back with arms full of their creations, and eager to go back – all any parent could want from a kids’ club!  

Dining was easy, relaxed and enjoyable, especially at Palmito, where the cuisine reflected local influences with fresh, seasonal ingredients. An evening spent listening to live music — with our children playing on the grass with the other small guests after dinner — really captured the spirit of the place. Picador was our go-to for smoothies, juices and snacks for the kids — it has brilliant big outdoor banquettes, which are perfect for families with crawling toddlers who want to be free to roam and explore the gardens within eyesight of their parents.
 
I enjoyed a gentle and relaxing yoga class in the Mood Spa’s beautiful vaulted, cool indoor studio and we also had a good time in the (warmer) indoor pool playing with the kids.
 
Overall, the hotel strikes a balance between stylish design and warm hospitality, making it a genuinely welcoming choice for families seeking a peaceful escape in this scenic corner of Spain.