The popular resort of Elviria is situated a few kilometres East of central Marbella on Spain's glitzy Costa del Sol an urban district with a village feel, has its own post office, Town hall, and even schools, and includes affordable apartments for families. With some of its properties and hotels being an easy walk to the sea, it's the ideal location for a second home, with quality real estate for investors, and luxury accommodation set high enough to afford breathtaking views over the Mediterranean. Shops, restaurants, tapas bars, bakeries and beach clubs give visitors everything they need without going too far, including supermarkets where they can stock up twenty-four hours a day. Fuengirola is the nearest railway station, while Málaga airport, with its excellent connections, is just forty-five minutes away by car.

The area consists of several zones, the most prestigious of which is Hacienda las Chapas in a secluded setting on a pine-clad hill. Privacy is key for its wealthy clientele, and most of the individually-designed villas sit in spacious grounds with breathtaking views. Its proximity to other areas, and to amenities such as first-class golf courses, make it much in demand.

On the beach side of the coast road, Marbesa's proximity to the sea and its many facilities gives it a more laid-back community vibe. Architecture is traditional in the Andelusian style, and the good-value range of beachside apartments, village houses and villas in their own gardens makes Marbesa a favourite with investors.

Properties on La Mairena have been deliberately kept to a minimum, to protect the pine trees and century-old cork oaks that flourish here, so sales are pursued eagerly. Apartment complexes, villas and plots are all available among the lush vegetation of this secluded hilltop, with its backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains, and sea views that stretch as far as Gibraltar.

The pretty marina of Cabopino, with its quayside restaurants, gives access to child-friendly shallow sea. Harbourside apartments feature traditional Spanish courtyards and wonderful views of the stunning yachts, while slightly inland, the fifteen-hole Cabopino Golf Club offers accommodation with all amenities. Restricted development increases its charm and desirability.

Elviria itself consists of two zones, with the more coveted villas dotted among the sand dunes for maximum privacy in beautiful surroundings. A variety of other properties sit on the slopes of the pine forests that drop to the sea, but limited construction has conserved the natural vegetation. Add to this golf courses, international restaurants, banks and shops, and the proximity of the famous Nikki Beach Club at the nearby five-star Don Carlos Hotel and Resort, and the potential is obvious.

History and Key Facts

Like the rest of this region and as a part of Marbella, Elviria has long been popular with holidaymakers, and in later years has attracted affluent visitors and residents. The area is served by three schools, a college, several clinics and a hospital, while recreation is provided by excellent golfing facilities and some tennis clubs. With the addition of five hotels, a shopping mall, restaurants, bars and banks, residents have everything they need.

Lifestyle

This is a coast of beautiful beaches and this stretch is no exception, with its clean wide sands that slope gently into the sea. Away from the shore, Elviria Hills, which includes La Mairena and El Soto de Marbella, boasts the Michelin-starred El Lago restaurant. Views to North Africa and the Sierra Nevada are complemented by UNESCO's surrounding biosphere reserve of La Sierra de las Nieves. With its ability to mix solitude with amenities, and privacy with community, it's not surprising that luxury accommodation all over Elviria is so much in demand.

There are enough restaurants, chiringuitos, shops and services in the whole area to cater for the needs of residents and visitors, but the bustling town of Marbella itself provides a different experience, whether it's during the day or for the pull of its lively nightlife. Luxury beach clubs such as Nikki, Ocean Club, Opium and Sala by the Sea are the places to party with cocktails and DJs, while others like Trocadero, Sonora and Siroka serve up delicious food, and lower-key spaces cater for families with sun loungers and play areas.

Properties

Whether it's a villa in its own grounds, a chic apartment, a space-saving town house or a second home, there are some great real estate opportunities here. Gated communities give peace of mind to those for whom security is an issue, with landscaped gardens increasing privacy. Buying a plot will give the buyer a choice on the design of their villa, although most homes here tend to be painted white in the custom of Southern Spain (originally a Moorish tradition). Alternatively, closer to the more budget end of the scale, watch out for smaller dwellings, and for properties that are reduced in price.

The Real Estate Market

With a restricted number of homes being built, the market here is always very busy, but Engel & Völkers Elviria can ease the stress for buyers and investors. We are the experts in this area, with unrivalled local knowledge, and years of expertise in buying, selling or renting in east Marbella. We can advise on schools or on whatever particularly concerns you, and you can be assured of our friendly and helpful service.