7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Marbella

Marbella, is a sun-drenched paradise that offers more than just its golden beaches and luxurious lifestyle. For digital nomads calling this coastal town home, the allure of weekend getaways is strong, with a mix of popular and hidden destinations within easy reach. Whether you're looking for cultural experiences, natural beauty, or just a change of scenery, these seven spots provide the perfect escape from your routine.

Ronda

Perched on a towering plateau, Ronda is a mountaintop city just a short drive from Marbella that offers breathtaking views and rich history. The iconic Puente Nuevo bridge spans a deep gorge, connecting the old and new parts of the city. Wander through the cobblestone streets, visit the bullring, and explore the local museums. Ronda is also a gateway to some of Andalusia's best wineries, making it a perfect spot for wine enthusiasts.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Ronda is by car, which takes about 1.5 hours from Marbella. There are also bus services available that connect the two cities.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to walk the pathway that runs alongside the Tajo gorge for an unforgettable view of the bridge and the surrounding landscape.

Where to Stay: Hotel Montelirio offers stunning views of the gorge, and the Parador de Ronda provides a luxurious stay right next to the bridge.

Where to Eat: De Locos Tapas serves innovative dishes and has a reputation for being one of the best dining experiences in Ronda.

Granada

Granada is a jewel in the Andalusian crown, famous for the Alhambra, a sprawling Moorish complex with palaces, courtyards, and gardens. Beyond this UNESCO World Heritage site, Granada's vibrant streets, filled with flamenco music, tapas bars, and Arab baths, offer a cultural feast for the senses. The city's historic Albayzín district is a maze of narrow lanes and whitewashed houses that's perfect for exploring.

How to Get There: Granada is accessible by bus or car from Marbella, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours by car.

Travel Tip: Purchase Alhambra tickets well in advance, as they can sell out quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Alhambra Palace offers luxury with a view, while the Santa Isabel la Real is a charming hotel in the Albayzín district.

Where to Eat: Bodegas Castañeda is a historic tapas bar known for its local wines and traditional Andalusian tapas.

Sierra de las Nieves

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park is an ideal getaway. This biosphere reserve is home to Spanish fir forests, deep ravines, and a variety of wildlife. Hiking, bird watching, and exploring the quaint white villages that dot the park are popular activities. The area's natural beauty provides a tranquil contrast to Marbella's bustling beach scene.

How to Get There: The Sierra de las Nieves is best reached by car, with the journey from Marbella taking around 1 hour.

Travel Tip: Visit during the spring to see the park's wildflowers in full bloom, adding a splash of color to the already stunning landscape.

Where to Stay: The rural hotel Cerro de Hijar offers panoramic views and a peaceful retreat in the heart of the park.

Where to Eat: The restaurant at Cerro de Hijar serves local dishes made with fresh, regional ingredients.

Setenil de las Bodegas

Setenil de las Bodegas is a unique village where houses are built into the rock overhangs above the Rio Trejo. This unusual architectural feature creates a striking visual effect and provides a cool respite from the Andalusian sun. Stroll through the streets, visit the local shops, and enjoy the distinctive atmosphere of this lesser-known destination.

How to Get There: A car journey from Marbella to Setenil de las Bodegas takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Explore the upper part of the town for stunning views and photo opportunities of the houses under the rocks.

Where to Stay: Stay at the charming Hotel Villa de Setenil, located in the heart of the village.

Where to Eat: Bar Frasquito offers traditional tapas with a view of the unique rock dwellings.

Cádiz

Cádiz, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe, is a port city with a rich history and a lively atmosphere. Explore the ancient city walls, the cathedral, and the picturesque plazas. The city's beaches, such as Playa de la Caleta, are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. Cádiz is also known for its carnival, one of the most famous in Spain.

How to Get There: The drive from Marbella to Cádiz takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus or train with a transfer in Seville.

Travel Tip: Visit the Torre Tavira and its camera obscura for a unique view of the city from above.

Where to Stay: Parador de Cádiz offers modern amenities and sea views, while Hotel Casa de las Cuatro Torres provides a historic setting.

Where to Eat: La Candela serves up creative tapas in a cozy setting, perfect for experiencing the local cuisine.

Zahara de la Sierra

Zahara de la Sierra is a stunning white village that belongs to the Route of the White Hill Towns in Andalusia. It's nestled between the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and a turquoise reservoir, offering spectacular views and outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and kayaking. The village itself is a peaceful retreat with a Moorish castle overlooking the whitewashed houses and narrow streets.

How to Get There: The drive from Marbella to Zahara de la Sierra takes about 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Climb up to the castle for panoramic views of the village and the surrounding countryside.

Where to Stay: Al Lago is a boutique hotel with a view of the reservoir and offers a comfortable stay.

Where to Eat: Restaurante Al Lago pairs delicious local cuisine with stunning views of the water.

El Chorro

El Chorro is an adventurer's paradise, known for the Caminito del Rey, a once-dangerous walkway now safely restored and open to the public. The dramatic cliffs, gorges, and turquoise lakes of the surrounding area make it a hotspot for rock climbers, hikers, and nature lovers. The nearby Guadalhorce Reservoirs offer opportunities for swimming and picnicking in a serene setting.

How to Get There: El Chorro is about a 1.5-hour drive from Marbella. There is also a train from Málaga if you prefer public transport.

Travel Tip: Book your Caminito del Rey tickets in advance, especially during the high season, as the number of daily visitors is limited.

Where to Stay: La Garganta offers comfortable accommodation with views of the natural surroundings.

Where to Eat: El Mirador de El Chorro provides a dining experience with spectacular views of the gorge.