From Mallorca and the Algarve to Lanzarote, holidays to some of Europe’s most exclusive marinas and resorts deliver a touch of luxury that’s hard to beat.
Do you ever flick through the pages of fashion magazines, see the rich and famous taking in the rays aboard their latest super yacht and think – that’s the life for me? Why not follow in their footsteps? A super yacht may not be practical, but there’s no reason you shouldn’t enjoy the luxury and splendour of the Mediterranean marinas in which they moor their vessels for a spot of shopping or a lavish night out.
From Vilamoura in the Algarve, and Puerto Portals in Mallorca, to Marina Rubicon in southern Lanzarote, holidays to these exclusive marinas can make an indulgent, luxury option for those looking for the ultimate ‘jet set’ getaway.
Here are my top recommendations for super chic seaside Mediterranean locations.
Playa Blanca Resort – Lanzarote
For those looking for the ultimate exclusive marina experience, look no further than Marina Rubicon, part of the Playa Blanca Resort in Lanzarote. Holidays to Marina Rubicon are a mixture of up-market shopping, excellent waterside eateries – where you can spend long lunches drinking fine wines and people watching – and indulgent spas.
My top recommendation for somewhere to stay would be the H10 Rubicon Palace, where you’ll be treated in the lavish style you deserve. Rubicon Palace caters so well for its guests that it has three distinct zones depending on your mood, including a quiet zone for adults to enjoy the tranquil elegance of their surroundings.
For the ultimate Lanzarote holiday, book into one of Rubicon Palace’s ‘Privilege Rooms’ and you will be able to enjoy the free bar and private terrace of the exclusive Privilege Lounge. Of course, if you still need to unwind after all that luxury, then you can always head to the Thalasso Spa for the very latest beauty and wellbeing treatments.
Puerto Portals – Mallorca
With guests including Brad Pitt, Paris Hilton and Jim Carrey all stepping ashore to enjoy the luxury of Puerto Portals, a holiday here should put you in excellent company. The shops are to die for, with all the big designer names present, so make sure you bring your credit card and leave time in you itinerary to shop.
The legendary Flanigan Restaurant on the waterfront is an experience in itself, and is popular with many of the yacht guests moored in the marina. If you’re enjoying the vibe then carry on at Roxy’s Beach Bar after hours for some upmarket partying.
The place to stay here is definitely the Iberostar Grand Hotel Portals Nous, with its attentive butler service and elegant suites themed to fit your mood.
Vilamoura – Portugal
For the world-class golf crowd there is no better place to go than Vilamoura on the Algarve. Rub shoulders with the yacht set as they tee off, then meet them again later as they play a very different game at the tables of the exclusive Vilamoura Casino.
Vilamoura is a great place to party and a number of celebrities, and those who just want to be seen, come ashore here to enjoy the food at restaurants on the marina like Sete Café (owned by legendary footballer Luis Figo) with its famous White Room upstairs. After dinner this crowd often heads to the Kadoc Club to dance until dawn. My favourite place to stay here is the Lake Resort with its shuttle service to the golf course and a luxury spa to relax in.
Holiday like kings and queens (or at least like millionaires) in these Mediterranean resorts and discover the relaxation of having all your needs met at these luxury establishments
Ski Touring Valley Style
Go beyond the slopes on a Chamonix ski touring expedition on this winter’s ski holiday.
Keep in Shape While You Travel
Believe it or not, it is possible to return from your travels fitter than when you left and avoid the post-holiday diet. Find out how.
Cruise Back in Time into the Heart of Dutch History at Zaanse Schans
European river cruises provide a unique insight into a country: nowhere is this more true than a trip by boat through the ‘living museum’ of Zaanse Schans.
