Sierra Blanca Resort Art of Healing

We went in October, in the low season, and they offered us a 25-minute massage at the in-house premises. Just wow, guys 👏 The grounds are beautiful, with a stunning central pool and a relaxing area. Our rooms were modern and comfortable, and the staff were excellent, always pleasant and smiling, with gentle yet discreet care. Breakfast was five stars. The chef made us incredible homemade apple-based pancakes with blueberries, without gluten.

We came as a couple for two nights, looking for a reasonably priced Marbella-area hotel focused on healthy food. The stay was okay, and the room was excellent: spacious and comfortable, with a nice bathroom, Rituals amenities, and underfloor heating and cooling. The gym was probably the largest I’ve seen in a hotel, the pool area was relaxing, and staff were very friendly and attentive. A few more parasols by the pool would be welcome. The stylish entrance and reception made a great first impression. There seemed to be only one person handling reception, the bar, and the restaurant at once. He did an impressive job, but that setup doesn’t seem ideal for a hotel of this level. Some parts also felt cheap or unfinished, including fake grass tiles, a restaurant without much warmth, and outdoor spaces that could use more greenery or a design refresh. Food and drinks were quite expensive for what you got. Pizza was around €20 and smoothies €14. A short drive away, there are better options with more atmosphere. With improvements to the style, atmosphere, and staffing, this decent, comfortable hotel with great facilities could become a really special place. The potential is there.

The grounds were nice, and basic but did the job. The two young guys and the Indian girl at the bar were super friendly. My room looked friendly, but the mattress was bone-breaking hard and gave no support, so I didn’t sleep well. I ordered a €15 tiramisu to be brought to my room in the late afternoon or early evening, figuring it had to be good at that price. Instead they delivered cheesecake. When I pointed out the mix-up, they told me to try it. I did, and didn’t like it. They said they’d take it off the bill, but the next day the receptionist, a girl with a chest tattoo I hadn’t met before, showed no willingness to remove the charge. I didn’t want to discuss it, so I paid and left. Make sure you get confirmation straight away if anything is at odds here. I needed to stay another day in Marbella and asked for a price to extend. The clerk quoted €781, so I declined and was told to look online for a deal. The next day the system had me registered for an extra night 🙄, but at €300, not €781. I’d stay again for €200.

The whole experience felt zen and relaxing, and the hotel was absolutely beautiful. It was completely different from other hotels I’ve stayed in. The service was fantastic, and I can’t wait to come back.