Situated less than 100m from the long golden sands, Villa Ceol is the ideal base to enjoy the picturesque coastline and cool blue waters of the Mediterranean. The local beach forms part of the Playa del San Pedro, a wide stretch of sand with a gentle shoreline, perfect for an afternoon stroll along the water's edge. Various cafes and bars dot the palm-lined promenade, and little refreshment huts provide drinks and ice creams for beachgoers. Dip your toes in the clear sea, or enjoy a swim, before sampling some local tapas on your way back to the villa. A number of small boutiques and food marts are within walking distance, or the larger supermarkets can be accessed by bus or car.
The region is popular with sports enthusiasts making the most of the warm Mediterranean climate. Multiple leisure clubs are close by, perfect for those looking to enjoy a game of tennis or spend a long afternoon on one of the immaculate golf courses. For those looking to explore the outdoors, the rocky mountains of Sierra Blanca provide scenic trails and picturesque villages. Sitting approximately 1215 ft above sea level, the imposing La Concha is a demanding but incredibly rewarding hike, with unparalleled views from the summit that stretch along the coast and, on a clear day, reach as far as Gibraltar and North Africa.
The vibrant city of Marbella is less than 20 minutes by car, and here you can find an abundance of shops, cafes and restaurants buzzing with daily life. A network of streets makes up the Old Town, with shaded squares and buildings dating back centuries. Browse the little boutiques for local gifts, and be sure to visit the Plaza de los Naranjos and St. Mary's Church, which dates back to the 16th century. Take a break in the lively square and perch on the charming foundation whilst enjoying an ice cream from Mauro's Heladeria. The city has a number of art galleries, including the Hospital Bazan, which has a collection of works from renowned artists such as Picasso, Miro and Chillida. Also, check out the Avenida del Mar, a paved promenade connecting the seafront to Paseo de La Alameda that has an array of bronze sculptures designed by Salvador Dali.
Closer to home, the glamorous Puerto Banus is just a 25-minute walk from the villa. The prosperous harbour is the place to be, and extravagant yachts can be seen docking throughout the day to let their guests off to browse the clothing boutiques that line the waterfront. Boasting a wealth of restaurants and bars, Puerto Banus has a huge variety of cuisines, from international fine dining to authentic Andalusian dishes. To enjoy the front-line action, sip a cocktail at Sinatra's Bar and relax long into the evening. Or, for a more traditional experience, seek out Casa Blanca. Slightly set back from the port, this reasonably priced restaurant offers up a delicious selection of local tapas and is the perfect spot for an early dinner before walking back along the seafront.
