Embracing The Art Of Slow Living At Fairmont La Hacienda, Costa del Sol

Nestled in an undiscovered corner of southern Spain lies the Costa del Sol’s hidden gem, the Fairmont La Hacienda. It’s so southern, in fact, that you’re advised to fly into Gibraltar, which is precisely what I did before making my way, on foot, beyond the border, back onto Spanish ground. I appreciate that sounds a lot more dramatic than it was, the border being no more than a five-minute walk away. But it’s from this point, at the port opposite the airport, that you can catch a ferry for a day trip over to Tangier, Morocco. If you can spare some time before crossing into Spain, I recommend taking a pit stop tour to see the Barbary Macaque monkeys at the top of the Gibraltar Rock. However, be aware that any food in sight is at risk of being snatched by the Macaques – don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Admittedly, the Costa del Sol wasn’t on my summer wish list, especially when there’s sun-drenched Seville and lively Marbella around the corner. After a 30-minute drive from Gibraltar Airport, I had arrived at the Fairmont La Hacienda, and, as a non-golfer, I was worried that this was a spot designed purely for putting holes. However, I soon learnt that, whilst its location is handy for those looking for some quality tee time, the resort was predominantly built to promote a slower way of living – a notion I could definitely get on board with, coming from non-stop London.

Review: Fairmont La Hacienda, Costa del Sol

The hotel itself was designed to complement the descending natural landscape. It’s almost topsy-turvy, if you will, but in the best way possible – even the floor levels descend from higher to lower (which can get pretty confusing when navigating the lifts). I entered the resort at the highest point of the building, and it was at the lobby level where I was first able to fully appreciate the vista. A floor-to-ceiling window offered a panoramic view of the surrounding villas and suites that cascaded all the way down to the coastline. Design details haven’t been overlooked here either: the space is sleek, modern and quietly luxurious.

SLEEP

I was lucky enough to stay in one of the resort’s villas, primed with its own personal pool, living room, and kitchen. I wasn’t lying when I mentioned the resort is designed so you don’t have to leave; mentally, I was ready to up sticks and move in.

The rooms also boast modern interiors. A neutral colour palette is employed throughout, while rustic pottery and objets d’art provide the space with a subtle nod to the resort’s Andalusian roots. For fans of Reese Witherspoon’s hit series Big Little Lies, it’s not worlds apart from Celeste’s iconic clifftop mansion, located in the Carmel Highlands, California (admittedly downsized).

The quickest way to my heart is a free-standing bath. And while my natural inclination is a Victorian roll-top, this particular tub made me develop a newfound appreciation for contemporary living. Its deep, concrete-like body, unfussy yet still statement, is topped with matte black finishings. Bottles of Le Labo’s Rose 31 help set the scene – need I say more?

EAT

Located under bamboo ceilings and set amidst lush greenery, Umbra is the resort’s open-air dining experience, designed to be enjoyed either in a restaurant setting or casually by the pool. Plates redefine coastal Mediterranean cuisine, featuring local, simply cooked ingredients. I recommend indulging in the Cádiz tuna and fire-roasted espeto (local skewered sardines) alongside a fresh salad.

Vista lounge and terrace is the perfect spot for grabbing a drink before dinner. I often found myself catching the sunset here with an aperitivo in hand. Night owls might even want to head here post-evening meal for a nightcap whilst enjoying the live music.

It’s DALMAR, the resort’s elevated restaurant headed by Michelin-star chef Benito Gómez, that really got the tastebuds going. The tasting menu is particularly impressive, each course paired with a wine from the Ronda region. A modern interpretation of Andalusian cuisine, each small plate was a celebration of the South. Favourite courses included a smoked salmon sashimi starter, a grilled seabass main – impressively de-boned and plated in front of us – and caramel flan for dessert.

RECHARGE

If you visit La Fairmont Hacienda, it would be criminal not to treat yourself to a signature massage. After all, the resort itself is an advocate for self-care and wellness. Ahead of the treatment, my assigned therapist sat me down for an in-depth consultation, not only highlighting tension points of my body that may need attention, but also checking in to see how I was mentally in a bid to make me leave feeling lighter. It was the connection between mind and body that I particularly appreciated in the process. If you get the opportunity, ask for Rocío – her magic hands helped me to regain two inches in height in a single sitting!

Located within the spa, there’s an impressive gym space. Cold towels are at hand for those cardio moments, and I particularly enjoyed taking a yoga mat out onto the gym’s own terrace space for some solo Pilates and stretching in the evening sun.

RESPONSIBILITY

Whilst Earth plays a clear role in the aesthetic of the building, caring for the planet is a conscious thought and mindful practice throughout La Fairmont Hacienda. I was impressed to hear about the resort’s commitment to implementing energy-efficient practices where possible, conserving water, and utilising eco-friendly amenities. And when it comes to food, the hotel’s kitchens prefer to use its own-grown produce where possible, as well as locally sourced goods from neighbouring suppliers.

FINAL THOUGHTS

If you’re in search of a new party spot, Fairmont La Hacienda may not be for you. But if you crave a place to truly slow down and reconnect, this is where you’ll find it. From extraordinary cuisine to soulful, unhurried days, the experience lingers long after you leave. Already, my friends are clamouring for the details. This is a sanctuary best discovered before the rest of the world catches on. 

BOOK IT:

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