We really dig a hotel that calls itself a “rebel retreat.’ Located on the Costa del Sol, newly opened La Zambra is a design hotel with a bohemian vibe. Its décor would fit right into Tulum, but instead it’s located between Marbella and Malaga, in the space of the former den of debauchery, the Hôtel Byblos. And, the transformation is exciting.
Overview
Though the property was originally home to the hedonistic, La Zambra has been completely refurbished under the Hyatt group. The architecture is warm and neutral, reflecting the Andalusian style. In the mountains, it blends with the village of Mijas, which is filled with white, stone buildings. The grounds of La Zambra have a number of gardens and swimming pools, including both family and adult-only pools. Since Andalusia is one of Europe’s popular golfing destinations, La Zambra comes with access to tee times at Los Olivos and Los Lagos courses. La Zambra, itself, is a type of flamingo dance and refers to the property’s party-going roots. (Lest we forget.)
Rooms
There are 197 rooms and suites to choose from at La Zambra. When choosing your room or suite, there are three categories: superior rooms, junior suites, or suites. Each has its own terrace and is decorated with local crafts and art. However, if you’re looking to explore wine instead of art, only the Signature Suite and the Terrace Suite have an in-suite wine cellar. For vistas, you can pick a rooms with a garden or golf view.
Food and Dining
It’s a big place, so you have four options for eating on site at La Zambra: Palmito, Picador, Bamboleo, and La Bartola. Palmito and Picador are the two main restaurants. Palmito serves buffet-style breakfasts and more formal dinners. Favored by couples, Picador is a “neo-taverna,” serving both tapas and Mediterranean classics and using local ingredients. Bamboleo and La Bartola are both bars with light snacks and small meal options (also favored by couples). Bamboleo’s extensive cocktail menu goes along with its variety of tapas, which take inspiration from Asia, America, and Mexico, making them unique compared to the other restaurants at the hotel. La Bartola, the pool bar, serves fritura andaluza and signature drinks, like La Zambra sangria.
Wellness
The Mood Spa, at over 26,000 square feet, is the largest spa in Costa del Sol. This space includes pools, Turkish Baths, hammam, and a relaxation area on the spa’s patio. However, now, the activities are intentionally more civilized — and promote healthy habits. (That’s probably a good thing.) For instance, a personalized program with your name on it includes an assigned therapist to help shape your wellness experience based on your specific needs. Additionally, the spa program has daily yoga, which can be scheduled as private classes. Tennis and paddle courts are also available.
Rebel Retreat
You may be asking, what of the rebellion? Well, that aspect may be more baked in the name. La Zambra evokes the philosophy of “having the freedom to be and to do whatever your heart tells you.” Back in the 80’s and 90’s we can only imagine what that meant to notable patrons like Princess Diana, Julio Iglesias, and the Rolling Stones. For us today, it means the opportunity for peace and quiet amid a relaxed, bohemian luxury. (We’ll save the debauchery for another time.)
FAQs
Q: Where is La Zambra?
A: La Zambra Hotel is located in Costa del Sol, Spain. It is in between Marbella and Malaga.
Q: What happened to Hôtel Byblos?
A: The property that once held Hôtel Byblos now has the completely renovated La Zambra Hotel.
Q: How many rooms are in La Zambra hotel?
A: La Zambra has 197 rooms and suites.
La Zambra Information:
Address: Av. de Louison Bobet, 9, 29650, Málaga, Spain
Phone number: (+34) 951 311 234
Map:
