“Small, but perfectly formed...”

The Costa Marina Aparthotel is Scottish-owned, and a little gem of a discovery on the Costa de Sol. All 51 rooms are air-conditioned and have a small kitchen area (no cooker, but a couple of hobs, microwave, kettle, toaster, and a good-sized fridge). Its very friendly staff all speak English, and f… Più

The Costa Marina Aparthotel is Scottish-owned, and a little gem of a discovery on the Costa de Sol. All 51 rooms are air-conditioned and have a small kitchen area (no cooker, but a couple of hobs, microwave, kettle, toaster, and a good-sized fridge). Its very friendly staff all speak English, and food at Meson Juan Antonio Restaurant (with tapas bar) did not disappoint. There is a happy hour each evening from 6.30 (two-for-one), which brings the locals down from hills in droves as it is open to non-residents. A small swimming pool (heated in winter) on the first floor has free loungers and matresses available to guests. The easy-going pool bar there serves a couple of draught brews as well as good, honest fare such as burgers and toasted sarnies. There's live entertainment in the bar and lounge area downstairs each evening featuring cabaret artists from up and down the coast. All in all, I could not find fault with the Costa Marina, though I would not recommend it to teenage parties looking for the coast's "bright lights". The aparthotel is situated in the tiny resort of Torremuelle, which is no more than a bay, and a train stop from Arroyo/Benalmadena station. There are only three restuarants and bars there, apart from the aforementioned Antonio's, so it is a definite no-no for the disco brigade who want ready access. There is a golf booking service in the Costa Marina, with discounted rates available at courses up and down the coast. Owner John Peach (who used to run the Costa Azul, now the Playa Bonita just up the road) is to be congratulated on his efforts in making this "little gem" of a place sparkle. It may be small, but it is perfectly formed, and an ideal base for those who enjoy the quiet life, good food, and good company.

Meno