The Visionary Behind It All: José Banús
Nueva Andalucía, a prized district just west of Marbella on Spain’s Costa del Sol, owes its origins to the ambition of José Banús, a Spanish businessman and architect. In the early 1960s, Banús envisioned transforming a stretch of undeveloped land into a prestigious residential enclave—a place that would combine beauty, exclusivity, and Mediterranean charm.
Birth of a Marina That Redefined Luxury: Puerto Banús
Central to Banús’s vision was the creation of Puerto Banús, a luxury marina officially opened in 1970. With its whitewashed architecture and yacht-lined harbor, the port was designed to echo the allure of St. Tropez and Monaco—but with a distinctly Andalusian soul.
Puerto Banús quickly became a magnet for celebrities, royals, and global elites. Visits from names like Princess Grace of Monaco, Sean Connery, and later, countless athletes, artists, and billionaires cemented its image as a playground for the wealthy.
Nueva Andalucía: Luxury Living with a View
While Puerto Banús served as the glittering social hub, Nueva Andalucía rose in parallel as the elegant, residential counterpart. Designed with Mediterranean architectural styling, it features:
- Low-rise, whitewashed buildings
- Large private villas with manicured gardens
- Well-kept communal developments and luxury townhouses
Its thoughtful layout includes wide avenues, parks, and landscaped communal areas—offering both privacy and community.
The Golf Valley: Sport Meets Sophistication
Nueva Andalucía’s reputation soared further thanks to its golf offering. Known as the “Golf Valley”, it is surrounded by some of the finest courses in Spain:
- Las Brisas Golf Club
- Los Naranjos Golf Club
- Aloha Golf Club
These prestigious clubs not only elevated the area’s profile among golf enthusiasts but also boosted property desirability. Golf-front villas, apartments with panoramic course views, and easy access to club amenities have driven steady real estate growth.
A Lifestyle Destination with Enduring Appeal
Today, Nueva Andalucía and Puerto Banús are two of Marbella’s most coveted areas. Their appeal lies in their perfect balance:
- Puerto Banús: High-energy, luxury retail, marina life, nightlife
- Nueva Andalucía: Tranquil, residential, green, yet just minutes from the action
Together, they offer an exceptional lifestyle—luxury shopping, international dining, championship golf, and proximity to Marbella’s beaches, all within a few kilometers.
Who Lives Here?
The areas attract a mix of:
- International retirees
- Seasonal homeowners from across Europe and the Middle East
- High-net-worth individuals seeking gated privacy
- Families drawn to international schools and proximity to Marbella town
Real Estate Insight
Property in Puerto Banús is known for its prime location and rental potential, especially:
- Beachfront apartments and penthouses
- Marina-facing townhomes
Nueva Andalucía offers:
- Larger villas and family-friendly residences
- Strong resale value due to consistent demand
- High appeal for both permanent residents and investors
A Legacy of Elegance and Innovation
José Banús’s vision not only reshaped Marbella—it defined modern luxury on the Costa del Sol. His legacy endures in the sunlit promenades of Puerto Banús and the leafy lanes of Nueva Andalucía, where elegance, exclusivity, and Mediterranean charm meet.
These communities are not just historical landmarks; they remain vital parts of Marbella’s present and future, continuing to attract those seeking the best in Southern Spain.
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Carin Astrup - Real Estate Agent
Fluent in Swedish, English, Danish, and Norwegian, Carin Astrup works with an elite international clientele, expertly matching buyers and investors with some of Marbella’s most exclusive properties.
Ready to find your dream home or make a smart investment in Marbella? Contact Carin today for a private consultation and unlock access to the Costa del Sol’s finest properties.
