Set along the lazy curve of Marbella’s Golden Mile, where the Mediterranean glimmers like sapphire and orange blossom drifts on the breeze—Hotel Don Pepe Gran Meliá is a sanctuary of coastal allure. Since its debut in 1964, this legendary retreat has been the discreet playground of European royalty and Hollywood stars (including Audrey Hepburn). Today? It’s a masterclass in seaside sophistication—where tropical gardens tumble toward the shore, marble terraces catch the afternoon light, and every moment feels drenched in gold. Whether you’re sipping vermouth beneath a canopy of palms, floating in a pool framed by hibiscus blooms, or watching as the horizon melts from your private balcony—Don Pepe invites you to surrender to the rhythm of southern Spain, one golden hour at a time.
Location
Marbella’s ‘Golden Mile’ exudes quiet grandeur—where saffron-streaked mountains meet the shimmering Mediterranean in a slow, cinematic embrace. Along this storied stretch, pine-shaded gardens drift toward a palm-lined promenade—with golden sands just beyond. Meanwhile, cyclists glide past boutique galleries and beach cafés, as locals linger over cortados beneath jacaranda trees. A short stroll inland reveals the old town’s whitewashed alleys—where bougainvillea spills from wrought-iron balconies and flamenco hums from hidden courtyards. To the west, Puerto Banús gleams with superyachts and designer boutiques—just minutes away by car or bike. Behind it all, the Sierra Blanca mountains rise dramatically, and further afield—the road winds toward Málaga’s Moorish grandeur and the cliffside charm of Ronda.
Style and Character
Hotel Don Pepe is a portrait of Mediterranean glamour. Its glass-boxed lobby sets the tone: think gleaming marble floors, mirrored cabinets, and curated artworks that echo Andalusia’s rich cultural heritage. Step outside—and the estate unfolds like a tropical reverie. A centuries-old oak tree anchors the garden—its gnarled limbs casting dappled shadows across plush sunloungers—while winding paths lead through whispering bamboo and bird-of-paradise blooms. Its grounds stretch all the way down to the seafront, framed by umbrella pines and swaying palms—while two circular pools shimmer beneath the sun, encircled by Bali beds. Every inch of Don Pepe feels intentional, yet effortless—from the clean lines of poolside cabanas to its vintage cocktail bar—fusing Andalusian warmth with cosmopolitan flair.
Rooms and Suites
With 194 rooms and suites, Don Pepe captures Marbella’s natural beauty in cinematic detail. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to private balconies where the sea unfurls to the horizon and mountains anchor the skyline. Meanwhile, interiors are serene, yet striking—think chalk-white walls, honeyed oak floors, and gold-trim mirrors—while fresh-cut lilies and curated artwork add a loving touch. Its RedLevel suites are luminous sanctuaries with panoramic views, pillow menus, and discreet butler service. Here, marble bathrooms feature rainfall showers and deep soaking tubs; and living areas are made for lingering with a glass of Rioja and the glow of sunset. It’s crowning glory? The Moët & Chandon Suite: 300 square meters of pure indulgence: picture a designer terrace with hydromassage tub, Bali bed, and golden putting green, plus a piano lounge and walk-in closet—all wrapped in champagne elegance.
Food and Beverage
Dining at Don Pepe is a tribute to Andalusian flavors. ERRE & Urrechu—the hotel’s signature steakhouse—offers flame-grilled chuletones and fresh seafood paired with bold Spanish Riojas in a chic, fire-lit setting. Meanwhile, Tahini Sushi Bar & Restaurant serves sweeping ocean views with fine Japanese bites: picture toro sashimi, miso black cod, and fine sake pairings. Bardot Pool Club, however, is its sun-drenched terrace where Mediterranean tapas, chilled sangria, and gourmet burgers are devoured poolside—and Café Cappuccino, perched along the promenade, is ideal for breakfast with a view—grazing on fresh pastries, fruit platters, and cappuccinos enjoyed as the waves roll in. Evenings begin at the Lobby Bar, where mixologists stir up cocktails with Andalusian flair—think rosemary-infused gin, sherry-laced Negronis, and carafes of sangria. Then, later, as twilight deepens—the rooftop Sky Lounge beckons with panoramic vistas and live flamenco rhythms—where guests toast under the stars with cava.
Spa and Wellness
Wellness at Don Pepe is seamlessly woven into the soul of the estate—from beachside yoga to garden meditations. Its TACHA spa, however, is a sensory utopia—where treatments blend botanical science with Mediterranean rituals. Indulge in aromatherapy massages with Andalusian oils, anti-aging facials, or couples’ rituals in candlelit treatment rooms. Meanwhile, the spa also boasts a Turkish bath, heated indoor pool, and sauna—while the 24-hour fitness center features cutting-edge gear (think Technogym cardio stations and resistance machines) and personal trainers on-hand. Outdoors, the main pool becomes a lively gathering place—chilled cava delivered right to your sunbed and live acoustic music drifting through the breeze—while the estate also features pristine tennis and padel courts: ideal for a sunlit rally or a spirited doubles match. Best spot? Head for the adults-only pool—framed by cypress trees and birdsong: a serene retreat for reading, napping, or simply being.
How To Do It
Entry-level rooms at Hotel Don Pepe start from $420 per night during the low season (November and January), rising to $1,165 in August at the height of summer. To book your stay, visit melia.com.