Elite Traveler November-December 2016

A weekend in… Málaga

When people think of Málaga, thoughts often turn to the surrounding Costa del Sol. It’s true that travelers who head to the costas usually arrive via Málaga airport, but those who do make the trip into the city will find beautiful Moorish architecture, a vibrant restaurant scene, a gorgeous city beach and a cultural life to rival many other cities in Spain. A population of over half a million people makes the city the sixth largest in Spain. One of the oldest cities in Europe, it has an eventful history and has been governed by different regimes over time. The Málaga administration has invested heavily in the cultural offerings in recent years and visitors can explore a rich mix of museums and galleries. Check in to the new five-star Gran Hotel Miramar. The building, dating back to 1926, was originally constructed as a hotel and has since been used as a field hospital during the civil war and, more recently, as Málaga’s Palace of Justice until 2007. Restored to its former glory, the hotel has wonderful sea views and direct access to the beach. After breakfast, get your bearings by walking to the Gibralfaro Castle in the hills and take in the splendid view overlooking the city. Next head to the Centre Pompidou – a key part of the city’s cultural reinvention – to explore the current selection of modern artworks from the Paris parent institution. The modern pier along the harbor front has a vast selection of restaurants. The pick of the bunch for lunch is José Carlos García, the only restaurant in Málaga city to hold a Michelin star. In the afternoon, head to the Museo Picasso to learn about the life and

art of Málaga’s favorite son. Pablo Picasso was born in the city and though he later moved to France, he always wanted his work to be on display in his hometown. The impressive collection spans eight decades of the artist’s work. Arrange to visit after-hours to enjoy the collection on your own. Alternatively, book one of the excellent guides to show you around. The Spanish eat late, so there is time for a drink before dinner. Several bars around the cathedral have terraced seating with lovely views of the old building in the evening light. A short stroll away, find the modern tapas bar Taberna Uvedoble, which serves a selection of tapas so tempting that you’ll often find lines of people waiting to be seated. After breakfast the next day, head west towards the upscale city of Marbella, which is a short drive from Málaga city, although there is a heliport near the coastal area if you prefer. Stay at Finca Cortesín, which offers faultless accommodation in a gorgeous location with beautiful views. Check in to one of the sumptuous villas within the grounds. Facilities include an Olympic-size swimming pool, golf course and beautiful grounds to wander around. Relax in the spa before lunch – Finca Cortesín is home to the one-Michelin-starred Kabuki Raw Japanese restaurant. Alternatively, enjoy a more traditional lunch in the El Jardín de Lutz restaurant. In the evening, head to Marbella for a beachfront stroll – on a clear day the views can stretch to Africa. Don’t leave the area without dinner at Dani García, in the Puente Romano resort; local boy turned star chef García has gained much acclaim and two Michelin stars for his food and his tasting menu is unmissable.

Above: The Olympic-size swimming pool, golf course and grounds of Finca Cortesín

Gran Hotel Miramar +34 952 603 000, granhotelmiramarmalaga.com José Carlos García + 34 952 003 588, restaurantejcg.com Museo Picasso museopicassomalaga.org Centre Pompidou +34 951 926 200, centrepompidou-malaga.eu Taberna Uvedoble +34 951 248 378, uvedobletaberna.com Finca Cortesín +34 952 937 800, fincacortesin.com/en Restaurante Dani Garcia +34 952 764 252, grupodanigarcia.com