El Martinete, waterfront mansion Unique frontline beach residence

About

El Martinete is a unique property that offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, with the added allure of a rich and glamorous history. The legendary estate represents a link with Marbella’s origin as a hot spot for the international jet set with its most famous feature, a drawing by the artist Picasso for the former owner, the internationally famous flamenco dancer Antonio ‘El Bailarín’, set for posterity in the tiles of the swimming pool.

This estate is truly one-of-a-kind, and its prime location only adds to its allure. Set in more than 4,000m2, the garden has direct access onto the seaside promenade and is filled with lush, semi-tropical plantings that provide a beautiful and relaxing space to enjoy the Mediterranean climate.

The stately grandeur of the house is immediately obvious as the elaborate entrance gates open into a courtyard spacious enough for several cars, with the driveway sweeping up to the impressive, covered entrance. Entering the threshold into the triple height entrance foyer is where the breathtaking scale of this Baroque gem reveals its rich and evocative past. An elaborate crystal chandelier
illuminates the vast space while natural light floods in from the covered skylight above into what is truly an extraordinary entrance space of gilded columns, marble floors and architectural flourishes.

Continuing into the grand formal drawing room, the eye is drawn across the elegant furnishings, extravagant fireplace and full-sized grand piano to the wide terrace beyond. Making full use of the indoors/outdoors lifestyle for which Marbella is famous, the veranda offers covered space from which to enjoy al fresco dining or simply to relax and appreciate the manicured gardens and large swimming pool – with its famous tile design.

Given its illustrious past, it is no surprise that entertaining is at the heart of the house. The ground floor boasts two kitchens, both of which were recently completely refurbished in elegant black marble and fully equipped with top-of-the-range Miele and Neff appliances. The family kitchen is spacious and functional, while the chef’s kitchen nearby has everything that would be required for entertaining guests at home to a fine dining experience in the spacious dining room. The table can be set for formal dining for fourteen, however, this is a home that would accommodate many more for refined soirees and evening gatherings. On this floor is also a cosy family room with views to the garden, a large fireplace and a welcoming ambience as well as a bright, spacious office from which to work in quiet concentration.

Ascending the marble stairs to the first floor, one is greeted by a light-flooded wrap-around minstrel’s gallery from which all the spacious ensuite bedrooms can be accessed. The Andalucía Suite, the luxurious and elegant primary bedroom, boasts wide windows from which to take in the panoramic sea views, with areas for reading and lounging. In addition, there is a separate sitting room that provides access to the expansive terrace. The Andalucía Suite benefits from two bathrooms, both of which have been totally refurbished, each with its own character but with high-quality fixtures and opulent outsized marble-tile walls.

The Malaga, Marbella and Ronda bedroom suites also offer access to the generous terrace and coveted sea views, while finally, the delightful Puerto Banús suite boasts vistas over the lush gardens.

Lastly, either taking the internal lift or stairs, we arrive at the top terrace, with BBQ, outdoor kitchen and chillout area furnished with Balinese beds and covered sofas – and the most impressive panoramic sea views of all.

From the top of the house, we descend to the basement and the fully renovated spa and leisure complex. Here there are ample areas for rest and relaxation, with a large, heated pool with decking and lounge chairs, which can also be accessed from outside where an open-air, tastefully lit relaxation area is perfect for tranquil repose amid the gentle sound of the trickling water features.

This floor also features an advanced home cinema for family movie and popcorn nights, while the gym and sauna are also on this level. Alternatively, some nights are perfect for lively get-togethers with friends. The clubbable atmosphere of the newly refurbished garage is perfect. The rotating parking system in the state-of-the-art parking area means your treasured automobiles can be on hand while you enjoy the party, with a full bar and climatised wine cellar to hand. There is even a well-ventilated cigar lounge for those who like to retire to indulge every now and again.

The villa also benefits from additional guest houses in the grounds, offering a convenient and luxurious amenity either for guests, older children or as separate apartments for staff, such as housekeepers or nannies. Two one-bedroomed guest houses with separate kitchens and bathrooms can be opened as one larger apartment, while a single bedroom with kitchen, dining area and bathroom is situated nearby, both conveniently close to the main house while being able to maintain privacy for both guest and homeowner.

Some of the property’s highlights include:

Walking distance (900 metres) to Puerto Banús
Short drive (7 kms) to Marbella
Spectacular views of the coast
Swimming pool with Picasso drawing
Indoor heated pool, spa and gym area
Lift to all levels
Three independent guest/staff houses