While to visitors Marbella may appear to be a holiday resort that revolves exclusively around the beach, the Old Town and the Golden Mile, it is in fact a very different place for those who live and work here. So, to newcomers choosing a location to call home, it can be bewildering knowing where to start.
One of our favourite destinations is Marbella’s largest suburb, Nueva Andalucía. While often associated with golf courses and easy travelling to ? Puerto Banús, the area is better understood as a network of distinct residential communities, each offering a unique blend of architecture, setting and lifestyle.
At KORE Estates, we work hard to find the right environment for our clients, as we understand from personal experience that choosing the right urbanisation can shape everything from daily routines to long-term investment outcomes. Some neighbourhoods offer complete privacy, others place residents within walking distance of restaurants and international schools. Some are highly exclusive, while others provide strong rental potential for investors.
Read on to discover our recommendations for some of the best urbanisations in this delightful community, all of which stand out for their location, character and overall quality.
La Cerquilla
Positioned between the golf courses of Los Naranjos, Las Brisas and Aloha, La Cerquilla is one of the most exclusive residential areas in the district. Its elevated position provides many homes with long views over the fairways towards the sea, and its streets are lined with high-end villas on generous plots.
La Cerquilla is known for its sense of space and order. The community is gated, free from commercial activity and offers no through road, therefore it is quiet and peaceful, making it particularly attractive for buyers seeking calm surroundings with access to amenities just minutes away. Properties tend to be set in their own grounds, with architectural styles ranging from classic Andalucian villas to sharp-edged contemporary residences, with new builds continuing to raise the overall standard of design.
Parcelas del Golf
Set within a short walk to Las Brisas Golf Club, Parcelas del Golf is a gated urbanisation of approximately 50 individual villas with 24-hour security and a strong sense of privacy. The substantial homes are set in flat, landscaped plots with manicured, sub-tropical gardens. The atmosphere here is residential and peaceful, yet still boasts all convenient amenities just minutes away. Residents can walk to local shops, restaurants and schools, a rarity for such a secure and low-density community.
Many properties in Parcelas del Golf have undergone recent refurbishment, while others present an opportunity for redevelopment. The balance of location, space and security continues to make this one of the most desirable areas for year-round living.
La Alzambra
Bordering Puerto Banús, La Alzambra offers a more integrated residential experience. The development includes a mix of high-end apartments, townhouses and detached villas, all within a gated community with 24-hour surveillance. Designed by influential local architect, the late Melvin Villaroel, it features his ‘Architecture of the Void’ philosophy with traditional Spanish style dominating the aesthetic, including terracotta, decorative ironwork and well-kept communal areas creating a coherent identity.
La Alzambra is ideal for those who value convenience. Residents are within walking distance of Puerto Banús marina, beaches and a wide range of restaurants. The development also holds strong appeal for investors, with consistently high rental demand from short- and long-term tenants.
Aloha
The area around Aloha presents probably the most lively and sociable option within Nueva Andalucía. While not a single urbanisation, it includes a cluster of well-maintained developments, gated communities and individual villas close to the Aloha Golf Club and Aloha College. This part of the valley is especially popular with families and professionals who want access to both leisure and everyday amenities.
Aloha offers secure apartments and townhouses in urbanisations with landscaped communal areas, pools and on-site services. Its central position allows for a lifestyle where most essentials are within easy reach, making it a practical choice for full-time residents.
Los Naranjos Hill Club
Located on the higher slopes of Nueva Andalucía, Los Naranjos Hill Club offers a more elevated and peaceful setting. This gated community is known for its clean layout, consistent architectural style and, thanks to its enviable location on gently undulating hills, panoramic views towards the coast and mountains. It includes a selection of spectacular villas, many of which have been modernised to reflect current design preferences.
While slightly further from the main commercial hubs, the area appeals to those prioritising privacy and open views. The surrounding roads are quiet, the plots well-sized and the overall ambience more tranquil and relaxed than in the lower parts of the valley.
Choosing the Right Urbanisation
Each of these locations offers something different. Whether the priority is discretion, walkability or rental potential, understanding the subtle distinctions between Nueva Andalucía’s many and varied urbanisations can make all the difference. At KORE Estates, our role is to help clients move beyond first impressions and into spaces that truly reflect their goals and way of life.
If you are considering a move to Marbella or looking to invest in one of its most established districts, we are here to offer clear, insightful guidance based on in-depth local knowledge. Contact our team to learn more about these neighbourhoods or to arrange a tailored property consultation.