Where Marbella Locals Escape To

Living in Marbella means having much more than the Mediterranean on your doorstep. As the summer heat begins to fade and autumn arrives, it is the perfect time to venture a little further and rediscover some of Andalucía’s most remarkable places.

From dramatic mountain landscapes to historic towns and hidden villages, these are three of our favourite day trips from Marbella.

Caminito del Rey - For adventure and spectacular scenery

Just over an hour from Marbella, Caminito del Rey offers one of Andalucía’s most impressive days out.

The famous walkway winds through the dramatic Desfiladero de los Gaitanes gorge, suspended along steep rock faces and surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.

With cooler temperatures and fewer summer crowds, autumn is an ideal time to experience the trail and see a completely different side of Málaga.

A Beauchamp Estates tip: Book in advance and make a day of it, stopping for lunch in the surrounding countryside afterwards.

Ronda and the Descalzos Viejos Winery - For wine, history and a slower pace

Few places make a better autumn escape than Ronda.

Around an hour from Marbella, the historic town is known for its dramatic setting, traditional Andalusian architecture and, of course, the iconic Puente Nuevo overlooking the gorge.

But venture slightly beyond the centre and you will find another reason to visit: Descalzos Viejos, a winery set within a restored 16th-century monastery.

Surrounded by vineyards and mountains, it is a beautiful place to discover some of the wines produced in the Serranía de Ronda before heading back into town for lunch.

A Beauchamp Estates tip: Combine a morning of wine tasting at Descalzos Viejos with a long lunch and an afternoon walk through Ronda.

Istán - For nature and tranquillity

Sometimes the best escape is also the closest. Hidden in the mountains just behind Marbella, Istán feels a world away from the coast despite being only a short drive from the Golden Mile.

One of the closest white villages to Marbella, Istán is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, walking trails and viewpoints overlooking the surrounding countryside and reservoir.

After exploring the village and its surroundings, stop for lunch at Raíces, a local restaurant that makes the trip to Istán even more worthwhile.

A Beauchamp Estates tip: Take the scenic drive up from Marbella, enjoy a walk around the village and surrounding nature, and finish with a relaxed lunch at Raíces (but do make sure you book in advance).