19www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th

olive pressthe

ropertywww.theolivepress.es October 1st - October 14th 2015

P

Contact our Marbella O�ice:

Tel: +34 951 203 986costadelsol@hifx.co.uk

Avda De Manolete, Centro Plaza Local 12-13,Nueva Andalucia, 29660,Marbella, Malaga

HiFX Europe Limited Sucursal en España is a branch of HiFX Europe Limited. HiFX Europe Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Payment Services Regulations 2009, registration 462444, for the provision of payment services.HiFX Europe Limited Sucursal en España is a branch of HiFX Europe Limited. HiFX Europe Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Payment Services Regulations 2009, registration 462444, for the provision of payment services. Don’t let the banks cash in! www.hifx.co.uk

Put us to the test. See if HiFX could saveyou time and money.

Buying or selling property in Spain?

Let us help youreach your destination.

Tel: +34 951 203 986 costadelsol@hifx.co.uk

www.hifx.co.ukDon’t let the banks cash in!

Buying or selling property in Spain?Let us help youreach your destination.Put us to the test. See if HiFX could save youtime and money.

Safe at last!

Controversial Almoraima sale comes off the market after campaign by Olive Press and visit from Hollywood actress Salma Hayek

SOLD OUTSPANISH housebuilder Tay-lor Wimpey Espana has dou-bled its annual sales this year.The subsidiary of the British company has already sold out five developments, with Brit-ish sales up 37%.Meanwhile, German buyers have leapt by an astonishing 160%, fuelled mainly by sales in Mallorca.Marc Pritchard, sales and marketing director, said: “It’s been a really good summer this year. “It’s been at least five years since I’ve experienced such an intense level of enthusi-asm for Spanish property.”New Costa del Sol develop-ments popular with British golfers this year include La Floresta Sur near Marbella and Miraval in Mijas.

Malaga company floatsA LUXURY property com-pany has become the first in Malaga to float on the stock exchange.Obsido, a Spanish-Norwe-gian company, debuted on the Mercado Alternativo Bursátil (MAB) this month at a price of €19.40 per share.The company currently man-ages two hotel resorts in Es-tepona and Marbella. FULL StORY PAGE 21

NATURAL BEAUTY: Alcornocales Natural Park, while (left) Hayek and (below) Almoraima estate

Who bagged top prize at the World Travel Awards?

PAGE 35

EXCLUSIVE: Peter Hain buys stunning Estepona villa

PAGE 21

What have former PM Aznar and footballer Bent-ley got in common?

PAGE 24

Tel: (+34) 952 81 01 02 · www.KSsir.com · Email: info@KSsir.com

TOWHOUSE FRONTLINE BEACH

REF: 23077P

We still have last minute availability of villas and apartments for summer lettings!!El consumidor tiene derecho a que se le entregue una copia del correspondiente Documento Informativo Abreviado de la vivienda

In process

182 44

*Built: 125m2 *Terrace: 41m2 *Beds: 3*Baths: 3 *Marble floors *Fully fitted kitchen*Frontline beach *Amenities near *Gated community

NEW GOLDEN MILE

Ideal holiday home, full time living or as a rental investment. We have several available units!

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA*Built: 362m2 *Plot: 850m2 *Beds: 4*Baths: 4 *Gym *Security entrance*Marble Floors *Golf view *Satellite TV

Price: Reduced from 1.500.000€ to 1.395.000€

Price: 580.000€

REF: 22378P

VILLA WITH GOLF VIEWS

An easily maintained villa in immaculate condition and located in a cul de sac within Las Brisas.

21www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press October 1st - October 14thwww.theolivepress.es October 1st - October 14th 2015 21Property

An InternationalAssociate of Savills

Offices at the Puente Romano Hotel & opposite the Marbella Club HotelTel. (+34) 952 863 750 info@panorama.es www.panorama.es

MARBELLA GOLDEN MILE Great opportunity! Immaculate 3-bedroom beachside duplex penthouse in Alhambra del Mar, steps to the beach and close to Marbella centre and all amenities. Ref. OP8331

PUERTO BANÚS Well-priced 2-bedroom beachside penthouse within a gated community offering security. Great rental potential, just steps to the beach and walking distance to Puerto Banús! Ref. OP7735

ISTÁN ROAD 3-bedroom semi-detached villa in a secure gated community with wonderful views to the Mediterranean, Gibraltar and Africa, only 10 minutes’ drive to Puerto Banús. Ref. OP8826

MARBELLA GOLDEN MILE 3-bedroom townhouse within an Andalusian style complex in Las Lomas del Marbella Club, 10 minutes walk to the beach. Ref. OP5003

Enclosed: 150 m²Terrace: 83 m²Price: € 799,000

Enclosed: 144 m²Price: € 495,000

Enclosed: 138 m²Plot: 339 m²Price: € 495,000

Enclosed: 173 m²Terrace: 39 m²Price: € 520,000

It is fitting that a former Europe minister should appreciate the best of what European tourism has to offer.Perhaps that’s why Labour politician Peter Hain has bought a stunning Estepona home with plans to enjoy holidays in our balmy climate.According to sources, Hain, 65, exchanged on the townhouse in Cancelada earlier this year and has been coming back regularly.“Peter loves Spain and particularly that part of the coast,” the source told the Olive Press. “He is very happy with his new home and we expect to see him more and more.”Hain is not the only politician to have been seduced by the Spanish life, with Cecil Par-kinson long owning a home near Gaucin and former UKIP MEP and media personality Robert Kilroy Silk owning a palatial Spanish villa just up the road in Casares.

Saved for the nation

The Hain in Spain

However while Hain is moving over Kilroy is selling up, the eurosceptic having put the pala-tial 368,000 m2 pad up on the market for €12 million, as reported exclusively by the Olive Press two months ago.Hain is no stranger to Spanish politics having controversially called for joint sovereignty on the Rock in 2013 and recently used Podemos as a model for winning back Labour votes.

HEADING TO SPAIN: Hain

OFF THE MARKET: Estate and (above) Hayek

EXCLUSIVE by Iona Napier

ONE of Andalucia’s biggest and most im-portant country estates, which attracted Hollywood beauty Salma Hayek, is off the market. Controversial plans to sell off la Almo-raima estate in the Alcornocales natural park have been scrapped after the Mexi-can actress kicked up a storm to keep it protected. It came after the Olive Press launched a

campaign in 2013 when central govern-ment sanctioned a plan to liquidate the ‘key environmental’ estate, worth an estimated €300 million. Last year, the OP exclusively revealed that Mexi-can actress Hayek and her billionaire husband Francois-Henri Pinault had flown in to visit the 14,000 hectare property, in Castellar de la Fron-tera, near Gibraltar.The couple came close to buying the land after Hayek was left outraged at the pros-pect of it being t r a n s -

formed into an ‘elite estate’ by a private buyer. The property is one of the last undeveloped cork wildernesses in Europe and home to thousands of rare birds and wildlife.However, under a proposal, sanctioned by the authorities, it was set to become a commercial hunting estate, with a mini airport, polo field and possible golf course. Typically, however, Spanish red tape and paperwork complications halted the pur-chase after the couple flew in by helicopter

to view the property. Now the plan has been put on the backburner, with the estate con-firming that it had had a profitable 12 months. “The past year has been much better for us,” a spokesman said. “In the past 12 months we have had a profit of €319,000 which means we no longer need to sell the estate.” He added: “At no point did we actually want to sell the estate, it was merely out of necessity and desperation.” In 2014, the park’s debt reached €1.5 million, giving directors ‘little choice’ but to try and cash in as pressure mounted from regional government.

BRItISH homeowners in Spain are in line for huge com-pensation payouts from the Spanish government.the government hit up to 30,000 non-residents with an inheritance tax levied on their homes between 2011 and 2014, but authorities have ruled they can claim back the tax.

Tax break

From Front Page of Property

22 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press October 1st - October 14thProperty22 www.theolivepress.es October 1st - October 14th 2015

THE Costa del Sol has seen an explosion of growth over recent decades and in order to be savvy with the market, it’s es-sential to speak to people who know their stuff.The small but very well-estab-lished Scandinavian team at Andalucia Development, in Marbella, has a wealth of expe-rience in the Spanish and inter-national real estate market.Since the company was set up by Kjell Hessedahl, Ulf’s father, back in 1981, it has been per-fectly poised to be part of the immense growth of Marbella and the surrounding areas.The multilingual team is a ‘one-stop-shop’ for your needs and can take care of all the details and bureaucratic hoops that are involved when buying or selling a house.Nurturing solid relationships with clients, lawyers, building and property management companies and many more over the years, their connec-tions make the whole process of buying or selling a house as smooth as possible.Their goal: to make their cus-tomers feel as comfortable as possible throughout what can be a stressful process.They also secure all of the practical after-sale aspects so you don’t have to worry about a thing.With an approachable, welcom-ing workforce for whom nothing is too much trouble, the team at Andalucia Development would love to see you – drop in if you find yourself in the area!You can find them in Centro Plaza, Local 63, Nueva Anda-lucia, Marbella, call them on 952 816 250 or email info@andadev.com

Making Andalucia easierUlf Hessedahl and his Andalucia Development ‘one stop shop’ have been involved in property for over 30 years

tHINK Christmas and the smell of a freshly-painted living room isn’t what normally comes to mind. Un-less you live in Gibraltar, that is.For residents of the Rock, a ‘winter clean’ is as traditional as pulling crackers, and this year is no differ-ent.Indeed, according to two leading

suppliers, paint is flying off the shelves at more than twice the rate of the rest of the year.“It’s a local pastime, an obsession actually,” Eddie Lucas, boss of In-terbuild, told the Olive Press.His counterpart at the Corner-

shop Paint and trade Centre Daryl Moreno added: “Everybody wants to paint their houses just before Christmas, it’s always been the case.“that means whenever you smell paint, it reminds you of Christmas.“We see a big rise in sales in the run-up to Christmas and it has

already started,” added the keen Barcelona fan, who has worked at Cornershop for five years.However, residents aren’t painting their townhouses in Christmas reds and greens. With over 15,000 co-lours in stock, Gibraltarians plump for everything from magnolia to mandarin sunset.

Beginning to smell like Christmas…By Tom Powell

To contact Tancrede for all your mortgaging needs call: 666 709 743 or for insurance queries call: 951 203 540 email: tdp@thefinanacebureau.com

The Finance Bureau Centro Commercial Guadalmina, 2nOffice No. 7 Guadalmina, 29670

MORTGAGE THINK TANKby mortgage broker Tancrede de Pola

IT has been a pretty hectic month for myself and the Finance Bureau.As well as moving offices we have launched a new

insurance agency, adding another string to our prop-erty bow.First things first, the new office is fantastic. Of course the move hasn’t gone without its snags (the usual WiFi is-sues et al) but all-in-all it has been a smooth transition.We are now located in Guadalmina’s Centro Commercial, in the block in between La Caixa Bank (formerly Barclays) and the Asador – feel free to pop in and say hello.The insurance agency is however the thing exciting me the most at the moment.As the Finance Bureau has established itself as a top mortgage brokerage on the Costa del Sol, I felt it was time to branch out and tap into a market which many of our clients often ask about.When looking for a mortgage it also makes sense to start thinking about your insurance needs, be it home, life, health or building cover. So it was a logical next step for the Finance Bureau - a one-stop shop if you will.

And it is important not only to have property insurance but also to have the correct cover, be it for full-time property, a second home or a buy-to-let.The insurance market is evolving every year, and it pays to shop around.However, with insurance companies able to specialise with the cover they offer, you need to be sure the insur-ance quote covers all of your specific circumstances and requirements.That is why I’ve brought in insurance expert Simon to head up the department.The last thing you need is to have problems if you are

unlucky enough to have to make a claim.For instance, some insurance policies only cover the property if it is occupied all of the time. For a rental with vacancy periods, you will need a specialist insur-ance policy that covers these vacant periods. If you rent your property to long term tenants it is important to have the right insurance cover, even if your tenant has their own insurance. Insuring somewhere you are not even living in may seem like a waste of money, but it is actually your property you are protecting.Where you are contracting life insurance you will need to consider whether to cover the full mortgage amount for the full term or have it reducing as the mortgage reduces thereby saving on premiums.Likewise, when contracting health insurance, do you prefer full coverage in the event of a claim or, partial. Do you want to use the doctor of your choice, or, one specified by the insurers. All of these factors will af-fect your premiums.Whether your insurance is up for renewal in 30 days or, 6 months please contact us for a personal consultation.

Exciting times are afoot at the Finance Bureau with its new HQ and insurance agency, writes mortgage expert Tancrede de Pola

Up, up and away!

SPAIN’S first ever crowdfunded home has been sold in Madrid.the Madrid flat was bought through website Housers.es, which brings together investors and developers.An incredible 49 people snapped up the two-bedroom apartment for €62,000, with €80,500 to be spent on refurbishing and taxes.Housers estimate the apartment will make a €33,123 return over five years for the investors, who are renting the property for €450 a month. Housers.es is looking to find backers for similar projects in Madrid, Valencia and Calunge, near Girona, with a minimum investment of €100 required.

IF sharing a single computer between 60 people, shunning modern conveniences and sleeping in a teepee is your thing, head to one of Spain’s biggest ‘eco-villages’ Matavenero.this northwestern Spanish commune was snapped by pho-tographer Kevin Faingnaert when he immersed himself in the romantically simple settlement.Spaniards are building a reputation for green-conscious constructions. Just last month, the first home to produce more energy than it uses was built in the UK by a Spanish architect.

NEW research reveals the profile of the av-erage British home buyer in Spain.Most expat Brits (74%) are aged 45-64, spend on average €200,000 and choose to live by the sea, according to figures pub-lished by property agent tranio. the average property size purchased is over

100 square metres and the most popular destinations are Andalucia, Valencia and the Canary Islands.tranio managing partner George Kachm-azov said: “British buyers are the most ac-tive on Spain’s property market. “they make up 30% of all foreign buyers

WHO are THe BriTS

Andalucia, Valencia and Canary Islands hit with expats relocation

– the French and Russians compete for second place with about 10% each. “During the last decade, English activity did slow down but it’s been picking back up again over the last year.” Surgethe favourable exchange rate, the growing British economy and favourable Spanish lending rates are among the reasons for the surge in activity.Altogether, 30% of European Google property searches made by British people were for Spain.

eco-topiaCrowded house

Home comfortIt’S not just the Brits who flock to southern Spain in search of summer sun… the Spaniards are also keen to visit. Andalucia was crowned the top home-holiday destination for Spaniards, according to travel website HomeAway. With 33% of the stay-at-home market, Andalucia proved more popular than Valencia (17%) and the Balearic islands (15%).

ISOLATED: Courteous visitors welcome

www.theolivepress.es March 19th - April 1st 2015 11

Property28 24

Germans as well as Brits – who take part in tournaments and club social events throughout the year.They’re not alone. An estimated 160,000 British people own holiday homes near golf courses and, with nearly 60 courses on the Costa del Sol, southern Spain is high on the list of popular destinations.The constellation of star names who have teed off on local courses include Real Ma-drid galactico Gareth Bale and former Spanish Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar.Premiership foot-balling alumni David Bentley and Steven Carr love the game so much, they can often be found swing-ing their clubs on courses around Benahavis, while their La Sala chief associate Ian Radford loves Guadalmina.At luxurious Los Arqueros Golf and Country Club, near Marbel-la, residents have been teeing off within putting distance of their front door for the past 20 years. The course, designed by Seve Ballesteros, boasts some

1,500 proper-

ties.Ignacio Osle, Regional Director for British building firm Taylor Wimpey, points to the phenom-enal success of Avalon, their lat-est development at Los Arqueros.

“We sold the last property in Au-gust, so we have no more left,” he says.“During the re-cession, we kept on developing the Los Aqueros golf resort and we kept on sell-

ing out. “Our new developments are mainly built on golf courses, and that is what we are tar-geting for the future.”He estimates that 40% of the customers snapping up a Spanish golfing idyll are Brit-ish, with others coming from

the Middle East or Scandina-via.Such is golf’s continued allure, Taylor Wimpey is spearheading a joint development plan with La Cala Resort for two new golf home enclaves: Miraval in Mi-jas, a luxury development of 60 apartments, and a townhouse urbanisation christened Hori-zon Golf.“We also plan another develop-ment in Estepona Golf for next year. It will have 58 townhouses and 72 apartments,” said Osle.And with prices for a two-bed-room apartment coming in at around €200,000, business is booming.“We didn’t really have any com-petitors on the Costa del Sol until now but now there are in-vestment funds selling proper-ties for between one and three million euros,” added Osle.The size of most golfing resorts means that their primary pur-pose isn’t that obvious to the casual visitor.Alex Twomey, 25, recently took a family holiday to El Chaparral Golf Club, but despite its flood-lit greens and acres of playing space, the Londoner noticed no visible signs of golfing activity.He said: “It is massive; if I did not know beforehand that it was a golfing resort, I would not have known what it was. I was quite surprised because I hard-ly saw anybody in their golfing gear or with their equipment.“There were lots of British peo-ple there, though, and it was really beautiful.”Frank Rabbel, development manager at Bromley Estates, is well-versed in finding homes for the influx of British buyers and expats from elsewhere. His company is an exclusive partner with Valle Romano Golf Course near Estepona, where they have 570 properties.And with prices ranging from €103,000 for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment to €181,000 for the most expen-sive penthouse, the champion-ship golf course is a hit with Brits swinging their five irons.“Most of the apartments have a wonderful view. We have people, many of them Spanish, who buy because of our cheap prices but around 40% of the people are British,” said Rabbel.“We also have Germans, Bel-gians, Austrians and Swiss so it’s not a ghetto of one nation.”However, when it comes to golf, make that a united nation.

Most of the apartments

have a wonderful

view

GOLF KINGDOM: Par for the course

TEEING OFF: On the green and (inset) Aznar

Fairways to heaven The British love for golf is

putting the Costa housing market back on course, writes Joe Duggan

GREENS TO ENVY: On the Costa del Sol and (inset) Jagielka and Bale

www.theolivepress.es October 1st - October 14th 2015

3 bedroom semi-detached houseFront and back garden

2 Large terraces • 2 ½ bathroomsOff road parking • Beautifully decoratedFireplace • Fantastic sea and golf views

Furnished optionalNewly re-furbished kitchen – All mod cons

Conservatory • Marble tiles throughout5 mins walk to the beach

Call John or Pat 956 791 394 / 627 119 860

FOR SALEAlcaidesa 295,000 euros

experience in11 years+

RICS BUILDING SURVEYORS & VALUERS

Connect with us!

For peace of mind follow these property buying rules

+34 952 923 520admin@surveyspain.comsurveyspain.com

Buy with Knowledge& Confidence

Find Your Property

InstructBuilding Surveyor

InstructLawyer

Property

BRITAIN’S enduring pas-sion for golf has played a pivotal role in our love affair with Spain.

Justin Rose has been fleeing England’s rain-streaked shores for the sun-kissed fairways of the Costa del Sol and Mur-cia for decades, indeed every chance he gets. For the 2013 US Open winner, sheltering from the elements under the dubious cover of a 12th-hole tree back in Blighty is but a distant memory.And, these days, the nation’s fervour for golf and dreams of a frontline home on the fairway are helping to boost Spain’s re-surgent property market as the country starts to exit the sav-age recession.Mark Twain described the game as ‘a good walk spoiled’ but, for thousands of expats perfecting their putts, Spain’s manicured greens are enough of an entice-ment to turn a hobby into a new lifestyle with an investment in bricks and mortar. And for some, living within driv-ing distance of the driving range isn’t enough. More and more expats are choosing to live in properties a mashie niblick-length from the course itself. David Hewitt moved to Spain eight years ago before mak-ing the switch to a home at La Duquesa Golf & Country Club.The graphic designer’s town-house offers him easy access to the course. He was out en-joying a round with friends when the Olive Press first con-tacted him.“I have a view of the 10th hole. There is a driving range where you can practise,” he said.“The courses are better quality, and we have the weather here. But really I moved more for the location.“I like to play about once a week, but it depends how busy I am.” La Duquesa’s apartments and houses around El Hacho are home to hundreds of golfing fanatics – Scandinavians and

1S-0029: BEACHFRONT APARTMENT LA CALA SEA VIEWS LARGE STUDIO

Front line beach studio in the heart of La Cala village. Situated in a much sought after development with direct access to the beach from the gardens

and pool area. The property is extremely spacious with some owners converting to one bedroom apartments. Includes a small kitchen,

complete bathroom and large lounge/dining area leading onto a glazed sunny terrace that enjoys superb views to the sea. There is communal

parking. Low running costs. A superb rental investment and holiday home. 100.000 Euros

2AP-0070: SUPERB FRONTLINE GOLF PENTHOUSE 2 BED 2 BATH

Superb penthouse with great front-line golf views to miraflores golf and all day sun on the huge 160m2 wrap-a-round terrace. The property itself has a large lounge/diner with feature fireplace and vaulted ceilings,

well equipped kitchen, two large double bedrooms (one en-suite) a further single bedroom and private lift access directly to the apartment.

Well kept pools and gardens, large store-room and garage space are added benefits. A must for viewings!

255.000 Euros

2A-2555: GREAT HOLIDAY HOME WITH VIEWS 2 BED 2 BATH

Great location close to all amenities and the community has it’s own tunnel access to the beach front! Super sea views from the south facing terrace which also overlooks the gardens and pool area. The apartment

has a modern open plan kitchen and a newly updated shower room, two double bedrooms with fitted robes, family bathroom and lounge with feature fireplace. Excellent value for this ideal holiday home on

an established community with communal parking. 149.000 Euros

Property10

‘THE old band’s back to-gether,” explains HiFX Spain’s new Country Manager Tanya Ed-

wards as she settles into life in Marbella.The money transfer company has been experiencing a period of intense growth and having just moved to the Golden Mile, Edwards is confident that this will continue.Having originally worked in HiFX head office in Windsor from 2005, she is delighted about being reunited with former col-league, Operations Manager Amanda Best.They are fronting up the Spanish operation from Centro Plaza, in Nueva Andalucia, Marbella, hav-ing worked together for years.Located behind Yanx restaurant, with breathtaking views towards the mountains overlooking Mar-bella, the team of five want to get across to clients how happy they are to deal with them personally and not to feel rushed.

Experts“I want people to feel comfort-able enough to drop in, have a cup of coffee and find out what their options are,” Edwards ex-plains.“There are no obligations when you come in. We are a friendly bunch and are always here to help and guide you through any money transfer requirement, whether you are buying or sell-ing property, or have regular pay-ments to make.”Having transferred over £100 billion to date, HiFX is one of the largest international money transfer specialists in Europe, offering highly competitive, bank-beating exchange rates to both individuals and businesses. With three offices in Spain, HiFX cover the whole of the Iberian Peninsular including the Bale-aric and Canary Islands.Now part of Euronet Worldwide, a global electronic and transac-tion processing solutions com-pany, HiFX offers a personal service with each dealer serving

High-flying at HiFX

The property market is on the up, and so are spirits at leading currency company HiFX, writes Rob Horgan

fewer clients than a bank, giving them more time to find the best rates on offer.And it is an exciting time for the team and - most importantly the people they work with - as the property market takes off.“Seeing the market come back round again really excites me,” Edwards explains. “But what ex-cites me even more is seeing the estate agents and the other busi-nesses we work with prosper.“The crisis was a tough time for ev-eryone, it was heart-breaking to see businesses and individuals suffer.”Spain is certainly once again a firm favourite for those look-ing to buy abroad, according to the company’s latest Property Hotspots Report.The bi-annual report, which anal-yses nine years worth of HiFX data, reveals that while France and Spain shared the top spot in March, Spain is now steam-

ing ahead and attracting more buyers.Meanwhile across the pond, the USA continues to be a popular choice for British house-hunters exploring the global property market, as 8% of those search-ing abroad head there.“Looking at the global prop-erty market broadly, the last six months have been very interest-ing,” explains UK-based director Mark Bodega.“While demand for international property remains well below pre-financial crisis highs, we’re beginning to see pockets of demand off the back of strong price performances in a number of key countries.“In Europe, the story in property reflects the wider economic pic-ture and a two speed Europe is becoming increasingly evident with some countries (Spain, Portugal and Ireland) on the up

with prices rising and demand coming back, while others (France, Cyprus, Greece and Ita-ly) are showing none or negative growth.”But it is not all work and no play at HiFX. As Edwards explains, the new ethos at HiFX is to give back to its affiliates.As well as lining up a quiz night later this month (expect your invites soon) and gearing up for Estepona’s overs 50’s show, the HiFX team are getting sporty.“We have got massively into our sports this year,” says Edwards. “We have a VIP box at Malaga’s football stadium and we are in the early stages of planning golf-ing events for 2016.“It is good to show our faces, and look after the businesses we work with.”For more information on HiFX call 951 203 986 or visit www.hifx.co.uk/marbella

Property26 www.theolivepress.es October 1st - October 14th 2015

Want to join the team? HiFX are currently looking to employ further Business Development members for the ever

growing teams in both Costa Del Sol and Costa Blanca

HI-FIVE: Money transfer company striking gold in Centro Plaza, Puerto Banus

Meet the team:Based in WindsorJose Ivars-Lopez – Head of Banking Partnerships – Based at HiFX Windsor and heads up not only Spain, but the banking af-filiations in the UK and Spain. Based in MarbellaTanya Edwards – Country Manager – Hav-ing originally started with the company in 2005, tanya headed up the Costa Blanca operations in the boom years, has worked in Windsor and is now in Marbella

Amanda Best – Operations Manager - Half Spanish, half English, she has a long history with HiFX over nine years and now helps to head up operations in Spain

Paul Radford – Business Development Man-ager – Having worked in the UK in the affili-ate department for many years, Paul is our resident celebrity. You’ll catch him on the radio Mondays and Fridays with his market updates

Edward Chapman – Business Development

Manager – Ed has relocated to Spain after working in the Corporate department, in UK. Now in charge of sporting sponsorships, he is a keen golfer and is in charge of the cor-porate box at Malaga FC

Carlie Reid – Client Account Manager – Recent-ly back after maternity leave, Carlie has been helping clients in Spain for nearly 10 years and previously worked in the UK head office Based in Costa Blanca South office or Costa Blanca North officeJulia Rose – Area Manager Costa Blanca

Janine Mort – Business Development Manager

Bradley Smith – Client Account Manager

Tania Blanco – Business Development Manager

Sebastiaan Schuum – Business Development Manager

Hernan Cortes – Corporate Business Development Manager

Winkworth have 25 qualified clients actively looking for properties, we urgently need apartments, townhouses

and villas for the following clients.

Mr E looking for a three bedroom apartment in Estepona – Budget €400,000

Mr M looking for a two bedroom, two bathroom apartment in Guadalmina, close to golf – Budget €300,000

Mr R looking for a two bedroom apartment in Arroyo de la Miel only – Budget €150,000

Ms B looking for a three bedroom townhouse in Benalmadena – Budget €250,000

Ms W and Ms T both looking for a four bedroom villa in Benalmadena. – Budget €500,000

Mrs H is looking for a three bedroom villa in Nueva Andalucia – Budget €500,000

Mr B is looking for a three bedroom penthouse in the Golden Mile / Nueva Andalucia – Budget €900,000

Mr H is looking for a two bedroom apartment in Golden Mile / Sierra Blanca – Budget €600,000

Mrs E is looking for a three+ bedroom villa in Benahavis – Budget €3,000,000

Mr M is looking for a four bedroom villa in Mijas / Benalmadena – Budget €700,000

Developer looking for a distressed villa for himself Budget €1,500,000 and apartments or townhouses in need of refurbishment

Ms B looking for a 2 bedroom+ villa in San Pedro or Guadalmina – Budget €450,000

Mr G looking for a property in Vista Azur for buy to let

Three clients are looking for Los Granados de Cabopino only

Mr and Mrs H are looking for a three bedroom townhouse or apartment in La Heredia – Budget €550,000

Ms P is looking for a two or three bedroom apartment or townhouse in Camojan, Sierra Blanca – Budget €650,000

Mrs K is looking for a contemporary villa with three+ bedrooms, walking distance to amenities, open to area – Budget €2,500,000

IF YOU ARE THINKING OF PUTTING YOUR PROPERTY ON THE MARKET, NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME

Please contact Winkworth on 952 880 941 or email info@winkworth.esExperience the difference

WINKWORTH URGENTLY NEED MORE PROPERTIES

* Disclaimer exchange rate correct at time of going to press.

tel: +34 952 880 941info@winkworth.es www.winkworth.es

CHARTEREDSURVEYORS

• Valuations– residential and Commercial

• PropertySurveys – Pre purchase surveys to give the buyer peace of mind

• Precompletionsnagging of new property prior to hand over

• Commercialrent reviews, lease renewals and advice

ForaquotationpleasecontactPaulSGibsonTelephone: +350 200 75551Mobile: +350 54029244 info@gibsons-gibraltar.com

Tel: +350 200 48532 Fax: +350 200 62050 info@npestates.comwww.npestates.com

www.gibsons-gibraltar.com

GIBSON GALE LTD

Contact Gibson Gale for all your property needs

Property28 www.theolivepress.es October 1st - October 14th 2015

THE property market on the Costa del Sol is hot to trot once more. And, as con-

fidence grows, previously incognito parts of the coast are edging their way into the limelight.Duquesa Village, in Manilva, is just one location reaping the benefits from the recent rally in the market.Incredibly, all 200 bank re-possessions that left the area high and dry three years ago have now been sold to international buyers.These low-rise Andalusian-style apartments have now become thriving multi-cul-tural communities set in mature gardens with well-maintained pools… and, a short drive down to Duque-sa beach and marina on in-ternal roads.The urbanisation of Duque-sa Village, for example, was seen as practically a

To get in touch, contact Hamilton Homes on +34 952 890 444 or email olive@hamilton-homes.com

Dreams in Duquesa

Get first in line for the bargain buys that won’t last forever, write Andrew and Shani Hamilton from Hamilton Homes in Manilva

ghost town, but it has now become a desirable and sought-after community.One stunning penthouse property (see penthouse paradise below) with un-interrupted sea and golf course views and under-ground parking is selling for just €119,500.That is an incredibly good deal. Brits are backThe interest currently being registered in Duquesa Vil-lage is a reflection of how buyer confidence is back on track.The fantastic investment opportunities combined with the strong sterling-to-euro exchange rate has well and truly lured the British buyers back.This year we have seen a big turning point and when we speak to clients the gen-

eral feedback is that now is the time to buy.We have had the same cli-ents visiting houses with us on a regular basis over the last few years and each year they held off from buy-ing because they felt that the market would continue to go down.But now they are less cau-tious and are finally start-ing to buy, in particular be-cause prices have actually finally started to creep up and will continue to do so for the rest of the year. Trading upRepossessed bank proper-ties are also shifting well, with good mortgage options available once more and a new type of buyer emerging in force.Up until six months ago we saw the demand mainly for basic, holiday apartments but now we are seeing an increased demand for more high-end properties.But while the best deals are selling very quickly, the bureaucracy can get

complicated on the road to completion and patience is necessary! Inside trackBargain bank reposses-sions are still to be had so it is not too late to take ad-vantage.Don’t be disheartened if you haven’t bought yet as we must emphasise there are still good deals to be had.The banks still have prop-erties to release but it is essential for buyers to get organised to pick up a bar-gain as soon as they come on the market.By ‘get organised’, I mean applying for your NIE num-ber now, knowing your bud-get and preparing your pa-perwork.But if you don’t know the precise state of your financ-es, don’t panic. It’s far more common than people think.And remember even cash buyers need to provide evi-dence of how they make their money when they buy from a bank, complete with

copies of tax returns and their last three wage slips.Yes, it is taking a lot longer to get a mortgage than it once did but, with paper-work ready to go, mortgag-es are being approved.The bureaucracy may be tedious but prospective purchasers should be reas-sured that the longer wait is a result of much-improved checks against money laun-dering and ensuring the market’s foundations are solid.Banks are opening their doors to business. Believe us as we have worked for many of them, including Ci-tibank, Royal Bank of Scot-land, Credit Agricole and Barclays.Coming from a private bank-ing background has taught

us to pay attention to detail and to listen to our clients.Not only are Hamilton Homes in the business of helping you find the perfect place, we’ll secure you the perfect mortgage too. Next step?The market is buoyant, the cogs are turning and Ham-ilton Homes is ready to help you secure that dream buy.Our company specialises in sales across the region, including Alcaidesa, Soto-grande, La Duquesa, Sabi-nillas and Estepona.We are looking forward to hearing from you.To get in touch, contact Hamilton Homes on +34 952 890 444 or email ol-ive@hamilton-homes.com

HAPPY HAMILTONS: Homes on the upLUXURY: Flats available at affordable prices

Penthouse paradiseA TWO-bedroom, two bathroom penthouse in Duquesa vil-lage complete with communal pool garden and garage is fin-ished to the highest standard.With a fitted modern kitchen, walk-in wardrobe, bathroom jacuzzi and stunning sea, golf, and countryside views, the marble-floored and air-conditioned apartment is a steal.It is on the market with Hamilton Homes for just €119,500.

PICTURESQUE: Views from the site

Property10 Property30 October 1st - October 14th 2015

SPAIN appears to be get-ting back on track with renewed interest on the

Costa del Sol. Latest reports say Spain is once again the most popular destination for mortgage en-quiries, accounting for 45% of demand in the second quarter of 2015.The Spanish economy also grew by 1% in the same period, overtaking Britain’s recovery. Current expectations for the year are an impressive 3.3% growth and our own analysis predicts 2015 will see a 2-3% increase in property prices and in some cases more.Having been a successful agent and very safe property investor for 25 years, I have just started borrowing as much as possible to invest on the coast again and been recom-mending family, friends and investor clients to do the same. Take it from me, five years from now, you’ll look back at these low prices and wish you had stretched yourself and bought bigger or more properties.

HOW’S BUSINESS?The Spanish market is busy, exciting and officially back on the move. After quadrupling our marketing throughout Eu-rope, the year started off well for Overseas Dreams, however, it has now stepped up a gear. We actually need a lot more properties to satisfy the buy-ers we have – which is why we are temporarily lowering selling fees to obtain more properties

TERRACOTTA tiles, whitewashed walls and breathtaking moun-tain views; imagine your perfect Spanish idyll, and you’re prob-ably thinking about Jimena de la Frontera.Nestled about 20 miles inland from Sotogrande, the town is bordered by two rivers and the amazing Los Alcornocales Natural Park.The area’s outstanding natural beauty, location and excellent transport connections has made it popular with expats work-ing in Gibraltar as Karen Banham, managing director of Anda-lucia Country Houses, knows only too well.“In the last 12 months the real estate market has really picked up,” she said.“Our portfolio here has expanded from four to 150 in the Ji-mena area in the last two years.“This is an area that has wonderful natural beauty and is close to all the main cities.”The lure of the Spanish countryside has made Jimena popular with artists and those looking to experience a real taste of An-dalucian village life. And the hillside town’s train station means Ronda or Ante-quera are just a short journey away.But then again, who would want to venture too far from a place like Jimena De La Frontera?Come and find out yourself and give give Karen a call on +34 956 648 016 or email sales@andalucia-country-houses.com or visit www.andalucia-country-houses.com/index.php

THE Guadalhorce Valley’s verdant green slopes and rolling landscape offer home hunters a com-plete change from the Costa Del Sol’s beach life.Clusters of white pueblos splash across the ar-ea’s canopy of hills, while the nerve centre town

of Coin is a charming and popular destination.Even better, when a new bypass between Coin and Casapalma is finished this year, it will greatly improve transport links.Richard Woodland, the owner of Property Overseas

Market back on track!Property expert and Overseas Dreams MD Peter Bowerman discusses the strengthening market with the Olive Press

and meet demand.

WHERE ARE THE BUY-ERS COMING FROM?Our buyers are coming from all over Europe. French de-mand has increased, due to increased property/wealth taxes there, while we continue to market and sell to the preva-lent Scandinavian market. The British, though, are at the top of the purchasing table, largely thanks to the strong pound encouraging some fabulous deals.

MY ADVICE FOR SELLERSNow is a good time to sell – but don’t expect to be getting prices from days gone by. Al-though buyers are confident that the future is bright, they are still looking for correctly priced properties, which are currently around 35-40% less than the height of the market in 2007/08. It will take years for the market to significantly jump

in price, so if you currently have better use for your money - for example cruising the world or simply freeing up your cash, now is as good a time as any to sell. It is definitely a good time to sell if you are buying again in Spain or UK, even if initially los-ing money from purchasing in the boom, the shortfall should be redressed by purchasing sensibly, especially if up-sizing.

MY ADVICE FOR BUYERSIt’s been the perfect time for in-vestors and holiday-home buy-ers to purchase at the bottom of the market, knowing that sales have already increased by around 30% and property prices are also on the rise. It’s almost a no-brainer for anyone wanting to invest in property. Bricks and mortar have histori-cally always been a safe long-term investment, especially with the bonus of covering run-ning costs by summer holiday lets and winter rentals to golf-ers. I recommend you keep the property for personal holiday use in May and September, when the climate is perfect and the coast reverts to its normal charm.

Despite a highly professional team, I like giving a ‘personal touch’ and encourage clients to use my 25 years in real es-tate, investment and extensive knowledge of the Costa del Sol.Contact me or my team on (0034) 951 551 444 or info@OverseasDreams.com

And how’s market inland?Valley views

Group, insists this will be an at-traction for prospective buyers.“It will open up better access from Coin to Alora and Pizarra, and the route to Malaga will be a lot quicker,” he said.Woodland, who set up the com-pany nine years ago, has had an office in Coin for a year.“There has been a huge amount of activity this year. And, in fact, in the last month it has been the best we have ever seen,” he said.“The area’s very scenic and you can still get a good prop-erty bargain inland.”And one property’s unique sell-ing point is sure to be a hit with budding Jamie Olivers.“We have a four-bedroom villa in Cartama with a restaurant included in the sale for just €289,000,” said Richard.“The restaurant has a huge terrace and is facing the main road, so has good passing trade for a commercial opportunity.”Contact Richard on 952 81 47 80, info@propertyoverseas-group.com, www.propertyo-verseasgroup.com

Stunning escape

GUADALHORCE VALLEY

JIMENA

www.theolivepress.es March 19th - April 1st 2015

We need lots more properties for our buyers. If you want to sell, call now for a free valuation & full terms. We heavily market your property throughout Europe,

not just Spain. Get the best marketing with one of Europe’s most proactive Real Estate Agents

Overseas Dreams is an established & professional Master Real Estate Agency, covering all of the Costa del Sol.

With registered offices in both Marbella & La Cala de Mijas. We offer all types of property from bargain bank clearance

deals to the most prestigious Marbella mansions.

SPECIAL PROMOTION40% OFF OUR SELLING FEES

SELL YOUR PROPERTY FOR ONLY 3% +IVA

www.OverseasDreams.cominfo@OverseasDreams.com

Tel: (0034) 951 551 444Tel: (0034) 646 566 555

Overseas DreamsCOSTA DEL SOLREAL ESTATE / INMOBILIARIA

Stunning front line golf penthouse luxuriously reformed into a trendy open plan home. This unique 1 bed property is bigger than many 3 bed apartments & offers a very stylish & luxurious home in the hills above Puerto Banus.

€ 225,000 TOP809

Stunning Pad Near Banus

Great investment opportunity, Rare 4 bed finca on large 7,486 sqm Plot, between Mijas Beaches and popular Mijas Pueblo. Possible longterm development potential or bargain spacious country home close to everything.

€ 499,000 TO689

Amazing Mijas Finca Deal

Genuine forced sale bargain, beautiful 2 bedroom first floor apartment in popular beachside development near Puerto Banus, only approx 5 minutes walk to beach, bars & restaurants. Perfect holiday home or buyto let investment.

Front-line 3 bed apartment in award winning & world class Benalmadena marina. Massively reduced for urgent sale. Lovely terrace with stunning marina & sea views. Ultimate holiday home or buy to let investment, genuine bargain.

Studio apartment in popular beachside village of La Cala De Mijas. Walking distance to beach & village centre with all its popular shops, bars & restaurants. Sea views and priced low to sell urgently. bargain holiday home or buy to let.

€ 229,000 TOP385 € 365,000 TOP870 € 69,000 TOP920

Genuine Beachside BargainGenuine Beachside Bargain Bargain Studio Near Beach

Beautifully modernised 3-4 bed finca nestled in the hills on the fringes of Alhaurin El Grande. Private location only minutes drive to all town Amenities & shops. Vaulted ceilings, stunning grounds, panoramic country/mountain views.

€ 369,000 TOP901

Luxury Puerto Banus Penthouse

Liquidation sale. New build 1.2 million Euro Luxury Villa now reduced to only €590,000 for urgent sale. This beautiful villa is set in an incredible location with lovely panoramic sea & golf views. Large garden & swimming pool.

€ 590,000 TOP922

Luxury Villa 50% Reduced

Beautiful front line golf development, luxury 2 & 3 bed apartments & Penthouses, heavily reduced by for quick sales, Luxury gated development, classy clubhouse & facilities. One of the best value deals on the Costa Del Sol.

€ 103,000 - 155,000 TOP421

Best Value for Money on the Coast

Very rare opportunity, 3 bedroom front line beach apartment with large terrace & stunning open sea views. In need of modernising, hence the incredible price for a front line beach position. Genuine bargain & great investment.

€ 175,000 TOP921

Front-Line Beach Bargain

This beautiful 3 bed villa is situated in the popular beachside area of “El Faro” next to La Cala de Mijas. Tranquil setting yet easy walking distance to beach, shops, bars and restaurants. Heavily reduced bargain price for quick sale.

€ 315,000 TOP923

Lovely 3 Bed Villa by Beach

Spectacular 8 bed, 8 bath, villa with separate 4 bed villa on lavish 11,000 sqm estate in quiet gated luxury area of El Madronal, set in the Benahavis hills and yet only 20 mins drive to all the hustle and bustle of Puerto Banus, Marbella.

€ 5.450,000 TOP774

Spectacular Estate Near Banus

TOP787

Just released, amazing forced sale deals in Puerto Banus golf valley, Nueva Andalucia, Large brand new 2 & 3 bed high quality apartments massively reduced for quick sales, big terraces, sea views. Selling fast.

€ 284,000 - 430,000 TOP875Best Puerto Banus Deals

HOT DEA

L

BUY NOWBARGAIN

BANK SALES

12 BED

ESTA

TEAMAZIN

G

OPPORTUNITY

TREN

DY

BANUS PAD

CHEAPES

T

OF ITS

TYPE

CHEAPES

T

OF ITS

TYPE

CHEAPES

T

OF ITS

TYPE

SELLIN

G

FAST

CHEAPES

T

OF ITS

TYPE

IDEAL

FOR REF

URB

October 1st - October 14th 2015

dant enclave in the elevated position above the fast-moving Guadiaro River, which teems with fish and attracts wildlife. A popular walk - one of Andalucia’s best, according to writer Guy Hunter Watts - runs practically from the door down the river to Jimera de Libar.As well as local craftsmen the owner was keen to use local materials. The next pueblo along, Cortes, has a small ceramic studio run by a Spanish artisan and located next to al-luvial strata of clay.

BeautifulThe artisan collects the clay from the river bank, crushes it and makes both ceramic and terracotta tiles to her clients’ designs and specifications.The house was slowly and lovingly restored over the course of a decade and almost be-came a work of art in itself, as it was recon-structed in the classic ‘estilo Andaluz’.The result is breathtaking with the five bed-rooms all en-suite, a large kitchen/diner, a winter lounge with fireplace and office space on top. A beautiful summer lounge opens onto a shaded terrace and the sound of a goldfish pond’s tinkling fountain.The property is furnished with a wonderful collection of antiques and an imaginative col-lection of Andalucian and modern art, as well as Roman antiquities. There is very much a feel of Al-Andalus to the house, with Arabic-styled arches, as well as exposed oak and pine beams geometrically set above an amazing elliptical staircase. In an alcove within the garden is a rock pool that is fed from a mountain stream via an aqueduct.For an evening meal, apart from the Molino, there is, within the village, Asador Muelle and Bar Stop. It provides a three-course lunch for just €8. And a small gem in the village is the store that stocks all essentials.Ronda is a 10-minute drive away and, if you want the buzz and action of the coast, that’s just 45 minutes, while it is more than com-mutable to and from Gibraltar by train, via San Roque station.But then again, you might end up moving here falling in love with its peace and quiet and never leaving again.

Price on application via estate agent Castles in Manilva www.castlesestateagency.com

Property10

Yorkshire Linen Warehouse S.L.11 & 15, Avenida de Andalucía

Mijas Costa, 29650, MalagaTel: 952 197 577

Email: info@yorkshirelinen.esVisit our new website at

www.yorkshirelinen.es

VISIT OUR NEW FURNITURE STORE BEDS AND MORESITUATED RIGHT NEXT DOOR

tel: 952 667 095 info@bedsandmore.eswww.bedsandmore.es

IS YOUR HOME READY FOR SOME LOVE?

Follow us on Facebook for information, offers and new lines

HUGE DELIVERYELECTRICALS

BEDS, RUGS & FURNITURE

32 www.theolivepress.es October 1st - October 14th 2015

Email: enquiries@mylawyerinspain.comTelephone: (+34) 951 203 094 from the UK 0845 508 2395

www.mylawyerinspain.com

Offices: Marbella, Torrox, Murcia, Almería, Alicante & Valencia.

EXPERIENCED ENGLISH SOLICITORS & SPANISH ABOGADOS

Looking to buy a Spanish property? Contact us for your free guide to buying Spanish property safely & securely.

We provide a wide range of legal services including:

Litigation

Road traffic accidents

Personal injury & medical negligence

Company law

Conveyancing

Inheritances

Spanish wills that comply with EU regulation 650

English wills

Family & divorce

A LOVINGLY restored five-bedroom house, walking distance from an award-winning hotel and restau-rant and commutable from Gibraltar, has just come on the market.

Casa Rio Vista is located in the village of Estacion de Bena-ojan, near Ronda, and is a mere three-minute walk from the station and sits in breathtaking mountain scenery. The line is part of the famous ‘Mr Henderson’s Railway’, engineered and built by the British in the 19th century.Running from Algeciras to Bobadilla, which is often de-scribed as the ‘Clapham Junction’ of Andalucia, from here connections can be made to almost any city in Spain via the AVE.The British-owned house is only 400 metres from Andalu-cia’s third-leading hotel according to TripAdvisor, Molino del Santo, an extremely popular British-run, hotel and res-taurant, which has treated locals and discerning foodies from the coast and Gibraltar for nearly three decades.When the owner discovered the ruin, which had been abandoned for decades, the roof had collapsed and the residents were basically a herd of goats.But he fell in love with its charm and location and using highly-skilled local craftsmen he has managed to rein-state the property and grounds. Reclaimed doors from a convent were hung and architectural fit-tings and stairs purchased from dealers throughout Andalucia.The grounds were landscaped and planted to form a ver-

Rusticdream

Perfectly renovated country home with stunning, well-appointed rooms comes up for sale in village near Ronda

Outstanding unique property for sale in

BENAOJÁN, ANDALUCIA

• Built circa 1895 - rebuilt in 2015

• 5 ensuite double bedrooms

• Summer and winter lounges

• Rustic kitchen/dining area

• Wooden hot tub on terrace

• Lush, verdant grounds

• Goldfish pond with fountain

• Fresh water pool

• Collection of antique furniture

• Eclectic collection of modern art

• Price on applicationLocated...

• Next to Benaoján station - commutable

to Gibraltar via San Roque

• Train links via Ronda to Seville, Granada,

Madrid etc.

• 4 minutes walk from Molino del Santo -

an award winning hotel & restaurant

• Lush verdant enclave above Rio Guadiaro

in Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park

• Ronda only 15 minutes by car

• Coast just 45 minutes by car

GIBRALTAR BY TRAIN

Further details available from:

C/ Isaac Peral 4, 29692 Sabinillas, Manilva, Málaga

Tel: (+34) 952 891 221 www.castlesestateagency.com

Casa Rio Vista before renovation

SPECIAL FOCUS

AL-ANDALUS: The interior has an Arabian feel

www.theolivepress.es March 19th - April 1st 2015 11Property

IF you are a hotel owner, it doesn’t get much big-ger than winning the World travel Awards.And a number of local hotels, businesses and re-

sorts have come up trumps in the latest

set of gongs.We knew businesses

were on the up, but these awards are an official re-minder that business is

back on track and flour-ishing.In fact, the entire Ibe-rian peninsula came out smelling of roses this year, with big winners not only in Spain but a notably increased pres-ence of Portugal in Euro-pean tourism.As voted by travel agents worldwide, the 22nd an-nual ceremony unfolded in Sardinia, here’s whom to watch…

Win-win situationSpain and Gibraltar’s big winners

in the World Travel Awards 2015, writes Iona Napier

Continued next page

LUXURY: El Oceano Beach Hotel, Mijas, boasts a stunning seafront infinity pool and (inset) Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort in Las Palmas

TRAVEL TROPHY: Hotels like La Caleta in Gibraltar did well

www.theolivepress.es October 1st - October 14th 2015Property 35

36 www.theolivepress.esthe Olive Press October 1st - October 14th10 36

Villa perfecta – Spain’s most luxurious hotel villaA PRIVAtE chef is most peo-ple’s idea of luxury.But what about massages at dawn, caviar for brunch, a but-ler, maid, private spa therapistand 24-hour nothing-is-too-much-trouble service at Mar-bella Club Hotel’s Villa del Mar?the winning pad is set in 6,200m2 of beachfront bliss.

ANDALUCIA’S HOME-GROWN WINNERS

GOLDEN sands and refreshing breezes, the Costa de la Luz is a dream destination and the village-like Fairplay Golf Hotel & Spa in Cadiz has taken the all-inclusive trophy. “We have seen difficult times and it’s really great to have this boost to get back on track,” said manag-ing director Martin Schneck.

Ocean’s edge – Spain’s finest beach hotelMIJAS costa is the proud winner of Spain’s best beach hotel with El Oceano Beach Hotel leading the way.the privately-owned seafront hotel is within strik-ing distance of Miraflores Golf Club and Fuengirola Bioparc zoo… something for everyone!

Fit for a king – Spain’s classiest hotel residencesFOR the utmost in luxury facilties, the exclusive Kempinski Hotel Bahia Estepona (top) has led the way in hotel residences with unparalleled suites, ahead of three top Barcelona hotels and one Mal-lorca resort.

A HAt-tRICK of prizes left La Caleta hotel reigning victorious at the awards.Fellow nominees in the categories – O’Callaghan Eliott Hotel, the Sun-born and the Rock – were pipped to the post by the four-star hotel overlooking Catalan Bay.

Spa-rry eyed : Europe’s leading hotel and spa CLINGING to a cliff in Mallorca, the luxury Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel and Spa has won the coveted prize of the best hotel/spa combination in all of Europe.the brand has been voted the Middle East’s best hotel chain several times.

Cha-ching! Europe’s best casino resortJUSt off Morocco’s western coast, cash registers are clanging as tourists clean up in Europe’s best casino resort.Gran Canaria’s Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort on the south-ern coast fought off the competi-tion from France’s Evian Resort, St Moritz’s Kempinski and even Nice’s Palais de la Mediterranee.

Barca’s ship sails in - Europe’s top cruise port AND Europe’s best meetings & con-ference centreGAUDI knew it, Dali knew it, and now the world knows that Barca is worth a trip.the port has won Europe’s best cruise destination, beating Copen-hagen, Amsterdam and three turk-ish ports after Lisbon took the tro-phy last year.It’s a double win for Barcelona, also voted the best place for business con-ferences for the second year running.

Med capital - Mediterranean’s no. 1 beach hoteltHE Mediterranean boasts a huge range of beach establishments, so Alicante’s Diamante Beach Spa Ho-tel’s win is all the more impressive. the hotel, in Calpe, beat Cypriot, Italian and Greek equivalents.

GLORIOUS GIB

Caleta cleans up: Gibraltar’s primary conference centre, iconic hotel AND foremost spa

SUPER SPAIN

Fair play to Cadiz – Spain’s best all inclusive resort

FIRST resort – Spain’s winning spa resorttHE healing waters and health benefits of the Hotel Villa Padi-erna thermas Car-ratraca near Malaga are known as far away as Scandinavia. the queen of Norway even came here to get preg-nant!“Our in-house doctor and nutritionist make it a destination for many kings of Europe and it is in a very spe-cial place,” said gen-eral manager Jorge de Almeida.

From Previous Page

Property

37www.theolivepress.es the Olive Press October 1st - October 14th

Top Dollar