Though prices have largely levelled out after dropping 30-50% from 2008 highs, there could still be some downward mobility in certain areas and market segments. The average national drop in prices since the downturn began is 22 per cent, but this amalgamates highly diverse figures and throws them all together, a bit like a statistics blender.

On the whole, quality markets such as Marbella and Mallorca have faired best, with some of the most sought-after locations showing no price losses at all, while on the other end of the scale there are the masses of unsold properties in lower-end locations like Almería and Torrevieja. When credit was readily available these were the areas and segments that boomed the most, but now that finance is harder to come by it is the luxury market that has returned as the dominant factor in secondary housing.

While wealthier buyers continue to be drawn to quality properties in top locations, and few people seem willing to tackle the glut of cheaper properties in less attractive destinations, the investor is seeking out the middle ground – sourcing those properties that have dropped sufficiently in price to represent good value in the current market and high potential returns in the mid term. Such properties come in the form of attractive new apartment and townhouse complexes with finance, but also good resale homes in appealing locations.

Since not everyone can compete for a spot on Marbella’s Golden Mile, where very limited supply means prices remain quite steady in an ultra-luxury segment dominated by a surge in new money from up-and-coming regions of the world, most potential end-users and investors focus instead on established areas such as Nueva Andalucía, where price corrections have brought value back to the market. Here it is now possible to find a luxury 2-bed apartment for around €200,000 or a private villa for little more than €500,000, though you won’t be likely to bump into many distressed sales. For those you’d have to take a risk on less attractive real estate in locations far removed from Marbella.

The market, as ever, offers different things for different people, and those willing to take a chance on hugely discounted repossessed real estate in lesser areas are in a very good position to make lots of money, but they will have to be able to wait a good number of years for it all to mature. For the majority of lifestyle buyers and medium-term investors, the prospect of finding well-priced quality homes in appealing areas remains the one good thing to come out of this recession.

Nordica Rentals & Sales specialises in top quality properties for rent and sale in the Nueva Andalucia area of Marbella. If you are interested in acquiring a home in Marbella, call our office to speak to one of our staff. We are here to help you. Or, to view a range of attractively priced properties in and around Nueva Andalucia, visit our website.

If you’re planning to check out the famous name boutiques, take a minute to admire the stunning yachts and motor cruisers berthed around the Marina. The King of Saudi Arabia’s yacht often has a crowd of admirers standing nearby, cameras at the ready! Often you’ll hear about celebrities and royalty from all over the world enjoying themselves on yachts moored just outside Puerto Banús, so you never know who you might see!

Some of the cars parked alongside are pretty impressive too! It’s rumoured that you can hire a Ferrari and drive around the marina to impress your friends, but our lips are sealed!

When you’re all shopped out and in need of some relaxation, head over to one of the Banús beach clubs. They’re just gearing up to open their doors ready for the new summer season. By day, chill out on a luxury sun lounger or hammock, sipping a refreshing cold drink while enjoying the sound of the waves lapping the shore, or take a refreshing dip in one of the sparkling blue pools.

As the sun sets, some of the beach clubs host glamorous parties where the music plays and the champagne flows all night. Perennial favourite, Ocean Club, opens in late April but will officially launch its 2012 season with the White and Silver Opening Party on 4th May. Their fantastic restaurant serving French, Mediterranean and Asian dishes is a firm favourite with regulars while their party nights attract many holidaymakers staying in the area.

Nearby Sala Beach, previously Buddha Beach, opens for 2012 on 1st May and will hold its White and Gold Party on 8th June. This funky beach club serves the best in Thai fusion cuisine, sushi and seafood, as well as thirst quenching alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails.

Puerto Banús is a fantastic destination for foodies with restaurants catering to all budgets and tastes from a la carte fine dining to pizza and pasta. The majority are dotted between the fashion boutiques overlooking the yachts but some are hidden away in corners of Puerto Banús. There’s no shortage of places to try for lunch and dinner.

And don’t forget the beach chiringuitos often overlooked what with all the glitz and glamour. Most are located on the beach and promenade just east of the marina and serve amazing value family platters of freshly cooked fish, salads and tapas for a very reasonable price.

Nordica Sales & Rentals has a large selection of properties in and around Puerto Banús, visit our website to view what we have on offer.

You could borrow a friend’s dog; have it snuggled up on the sofa to demonstrate the warm and welcoming environment that is your home. Or, if you’d rather portray yourself as a dynamic and successful money making entrepreneur, how about leaving your boss’s sports car outside for the estate agent to photograph?

First and foremost, you want to make your house memorable. First impressions count! They are immediate and, as the phrase suggests, leave a lasting impression. But so might the bite marks left on the potential purchaser by the dog that didn’t read the script and decided to defend its new territory from the two-legged invaders! What the seller assumed was the estate agent showing the buyer how to open the bedroom window, turned out to be the two of them waving for help. Are you thinking that was a no sale? Us too!

All the good advice on presenting your home for sale suggests making it stand out to as wide a range of possible buyers as you can. Present the house as a blank canvas, so potential buyers can see how it could become their home. You might love the knitted toilet seat cover your grandma made you, but let’s get real: it probably won’t fit in with the next owners’ intended colour scheme!

Paint your walls in neutral tones and avoid big statement pieces of furniture and artwork in bright colours. Clear out the clutter and turn up the lights to make your rooms look spacious, clean and hygienic. Even if you think a friendly dog says welcoming and homely, there are those who will just think dog hairs and germs. And what about those with allergies? Best to play safe and give the dog to your neighbours for the day.

To create that great first positive impression, keep things simple. Have some fresh coffee brewing away, perhaps even bake some bread – if you’re sure you won’t burn it! Replace personal trophies, photos and the pots your kids made you in school with healthy looking plants to give your property a well cared for appearance.

But remember it’s not about you. Mentally move on from the house and focus on what the next people might be looking for. With any luck, you and your knitted toilet seat cover will both be on your way to a new home soon.

Visit our office in Nueva Andalucia for an informal chat. We’re here to help whether you want to sell, rent or buy a property – free of any pressure or obligation on your part.

Nordica, your  Nueva Andalucia specialists

Nordica’s choice of top local restaurants in Nueva Andalucia and Marbella

Nermans Restaurant
Located within the luxurious Los Naranjos Golf Club urbanisation, Nermans restaurant and bistro bar has become a modern cuisine favourite along the coast. Indulge in the wide selection of dishes from the international menu, whilst simultaneously enjoying the stylish interior or a summer night on the outside terrace.

Knut’s Gastrobar
If you want to enjoy a delicious cocktail and some ‘pika pika’ food with great flavour, then Knut’s Gastrobar is the place to be. Situated in San Pedro, Knut’s has a spacious living room, bar and a varied cocktail menu waiting for you.

Salotto Restaurant
The most successful of the owners’ three restaurants, Salotto, is located in Nueva Andalucía, with stunning views of the Aloha Golf gardens. The Salotto experience is marked by top quality service and cuisine; just the place to dress sharp. Owners Marco and Carlo have put their years of culinary experience in to creating modern Italian dishes that are loved all along the Costa del Sol.

Güey Restaurant
Host to numerous major events along Marbella, Güey provides the perfect social atmosphere. The menu consists of delicate sushi and salads, fresh fish, and sumptuous hearty meals. The Skybar, meanwhile, offers a refined modern ambience where you can enjoy cocktails made by the expert bar staff. The third scenic area to this restaurant is the Tropical Gardens, an outdoor lounge and dining area surrounded by tropical greenery. You will find Güey in Nueva Andalucía.

La Sala
Known for its live music that lasts into the early hours, and different areas to which guests can retreat, La Sala can be found on the outskirts of lively Puerto Banús. The decked terrace at the front is a great place to meet up or relax as you take in the world, while the elegant Lounge Terrace offers a choice of high tables at the bar and comfortable couches for relaxing with friends. The main restaurant area, which is renowned for its stylish interpretation of classics like fish and chips, combines intimacy with the upbeat atmosphere surrounding you. La Sala offers a continuous service, from breakfast until late, with a dining menu that is available at all hours.

La Moraga
The menu at La Moraga, Puerto Banús, has been created by passionate chef and owner Dani García. Dani envisioned the idea of a restaurant from the point of view that “when it is time to eat we need to relax and go away from the problems of life”. This philosophy can be seen in the atmosphere of La Moraga, where friends and families gather to enjoy their time together. For anyone wanting to try authentic Andalusian cuisine this location is truly rooted to its Southern Spanish traditions.

Los Bandidos
For the past 19 years Los Bandidos has been serving exquisite food and receiving raving reviews in return. Set within the heart of Puerto Banús along the port walkway, this classic restaurant is open seven days a week for dinner. Influenced by Swedish and French cuisine, the European dishes have been a favourite with residents and celebrities alike.

Pizzeria Picasso
You’re able to dine along the scenic Puerto Banús marina whilst eating a freshly baked pizza in the Pizzeria Picasso restaurant. There are also a variety of pastas, fish, meat, and salads. Serving for more than three decades, this restaurant has earned a reputation for great food along with terrific service.

Casamono
With an offering of classic neo-Belgian cuisine and daily specials, Casamono is right in the heart of Marbella. Casamono, translated into Monkey House, has a noticeable jungle theme that adds a touch of quirky fun to what is a seriously good eatery. Enjoy a memorable dining experience at a restaurant full of character as well as delicious drinks and tasty menu.

Casanis
If you’re looking for a venue full of ambience that serves classic homemade tapas with a modern twist then Casanis is one to visit. Innovative chef Guy Sirre takes the freshest ingredients and creates dishes of pure elegance and flavour. All staff members have a love for food and it shows in the friendly greeting once you enter the restaurant. Come and spend lunch in the Marbella sun or meet up with friends in a very ambient setting in Marbella’s Old Town.

El Patio de los Perfumes
Fusion cuisine comes to life at Patio de los Perfumes with a blend of French and Mediterranean traditions. All the original dishes beautifully created by chef Stéphane Martin are served in a unique environment of cosmopolitan and purple design. Embrace your French indulgences with Patios’ lounge bar, decorated with dangling chandeliers and a variety of drinks to quench your thirst. Quite the place to meet and greet.

Aloha Grill
Perfect for any occasion, the Aloha Grill is a point of reference in Nueva Andalucía. The tropical decoration reflects the name and re-creates the Spanish summer year round. There have been raving reviews about the food, especially the rack of lamb, and the varied menu selection suits any taste.

La Terraza
Each dish is made entirely by hand so only the best quality comes out of the kitchen at La Terraza restaurant. Its Mediterranean cuisine excites taste buds with dishes that are built around locally sourced ingredients and are accompanied by a fine selection of wines. Another great dining venue in Nueva Andalucía.

Enjoy the countless sunny days with the great Mediterranean at your disposal and we, at Nordica, can help you fulfill this dream.

Nordica collaborates with a local yacht charger company, which enables us to find you your choice in either fishing boats, yachts or sail boats in a range of styles and sizes. Be it for a relaxing day out or to celebrate a birthday or anniversary, there is also the possibility to hire a captain or the whole crew.

We can provide several different yacths, but here are some of them:

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SUNSEEKER MANHATTAN 60

Boat details:

• Lenght: 18,6 metres (60 feet)
• Beam: 5 metres
• Engines: 2 x Volvo CAD 900 HP Diesel
• Cruising speed: 26 knots
• Max no. cruising: 12 passengers (+ crew)

Prices: LOW SEASON (Oct-May) HIGH SEASON (June-Sept)1/2 day (4 hours) 2.500 Euros 3.500 Euros

• 1 day (8 hours) 4.000 Euros 6.250 Euros

Included in price: Mooring in Sotogrande, skipper, beer, soft drinks, snacks, fuel for 30 miles (1/2 day 15 miles).

Not included in price: IVA (18%), fuel extra (250 Euros/hour), mooring in other ports, catering and other drinks not specified above.

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CATAMARÁN LAGOON 380

Boat details:

• Lenght: 11,8 metres (38 feet)
• Beam: 6,53 metres
• Engines: 2 x Yanmar 30 YM3 HP Diesel
• Cruising speed: 8 knots
• Max no. cruising: 10 passengers (+ crew)

Prices: LOW SEASON (Oct-May) HIGH SEASON (June-Sept)

• Cruise 2 hours 425 Euros 425 Euros
• Cruise 4 hours 750 Euros 750 Euros
• Cruise 8 hours 1.400 Euros 1.400 Euros

Included in price: Mooring in Estepona, crew, fuel, beer, soft drinks and snacks.

Not included in price: IVA (18%), mooring in other ports, catering and other drinks not specified above.

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BANDIDO 90

Boat details:

• Lenght: 27,9 metres (90 feet)
• Beam: 7,7 metres
• Engines: 2 x Volvo CAD 1.100 CV HP Diesel
• Cruising speed: 16 knots
• Max no. cruising: 16 passengers

Prices: LOW SEASON (Oct-May) HIGH SEASON (June-Sept)

• 1/2 day (4 hours) 5.000 Euros 7.000 Euros
• 1 day (8 hours) 9.500 Euros 11.000 Euros

Included in price: Mooring in Sotogrande, beer, soft drinks, snacks and fuel.

Not included in price: IVA (18%), mooring in other ports, catering and other drinks not specified above.

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We can also provide other types of yacths, as well as sailing boats and fishing boats. For more information about these or the other yacths please contact us.

Puerto Banús is the place to be at this time of year. Whether you visit at the weekend or during the week, night or day, there’s plenty to do and see for all the family.

Shopaholics won’t know where to start, there’s so much choice! El Corte Ingles, Spain’s largest department store, has five floors selling everything from sports gear to washing machines, flowers to the latest hi-tech TVs and mobile phones, plus all the latest fashion. On the ground floor you’ll find an enormous supermarket crammed with goodies to fill your kitchen cupboards, fridge and freezer, plus a great range of toys, garden furniture, bathroom fittings, lights, books and DVDs.

Marina Banús is the shopping centre located right next to El Corte Ingles. Inside there’s a great selection of your favourite Spanish high street stores. Back out on the street, you’ll find yet more fashion chains, independent boutiques, jewellers, bookshops and accessories stores.

During the summer months, the main square in Puerto Banús, Plaza Antonio Banderas, is home to the artisan market, Artesana, where stallholders gather each year to sell their wares. It’s perfect for picking up unusual presents for your friends and family back home. There’s South American jewellery, Spanish pottery, colourful bags and beach wraps, even shoes and hand crafted wooden toys. Just on the other side of the main road, the weekly Puerto Banús market continues every Saturday. Located on the approach to the Nueva Andalucía bullring it’s awash with flowers, shoes, souvenirs, gifts, antiques and jewellery.

But if designer fashion is more your thing, head down to the Marina itself where a host of famous names have boutiques on the front line overlooking the yachts. Jimmy Choo, Tom Ford, Armani, Hugo Boss, Dolce&Gabbana are all open well into the evening so you can get your retail fix once the sun’s gone down, and perhaps enjoy a cocktail or two afterwards!

Nordica Sales & Rentals has a large selection of properties in and around Puerto Banús, visit our website to view what we have on offer.

Over the four year period studied by Fastighetsbyrån, 108 per cent more Norwegians and 138 per cent more Swedes elected to invest in Spanish property. Considering the excellent health of both the Norwegian Krone and Swedish Krona, which have risen by about five per cent against the euro as the pound has fallen almost 20 per cent, it is not surprising that comparatively prosperous Scandinavian buyers have been tempted to invest their money in second homes in the sun. Adding to this scenario, Spanish property in some areas has dropped up to 30 to 40 per cent in price, although it has been noted that real estate in the more prestigious parts of the Costa del Sol has held its value rather better than this.

Prospective Spanish property buyers hailing from Denmark, Sweden and Norway are also fortunate in that they can enjoy access to mortgages via Scandinavian banks, which have not been shaken by the same economic uncertainty that has plagued Britain and those European nations linked to the euro. Such mortgages also offer low arrangement fees, competitive rates and interest only agreements for up to 10 years.

The Nordica Sales and Rental team has noticed that the Marbella area is especially popular with our Scandinavian clients, who have very specific requirements when searching for their perfect home. The secret is to find an agency with the expertise and insider knowledge necessary to match clients with properties that are of a suitably high standard.

We have chosen Nueva Andalucía as our base and area of expertise, since this is one of Marbella’s most popular suburbs. Moreover, it is only a five-minute drive from the city centre and all the attractions of lively Puerto Banús, and is a short walk away from three of the Costa del Golf’s finest courses. Many of our clients are already keen golfers and have chosen to invest in a second home in Marbella in order to enjoy playing throughout the year.

Nordica not only specialises in sourcing property that we know will be of interest to Scandinavian buyers and investors, we also have hundreds of properties on our books available for long and short-term rental. Not only do we cover the Nueva Andalucía, Marbella and Puerto Banús areas, but our portfolio also extends as far as Elviria and El Rosario to the east, and Benahavís and Estepona to the west.

The Investment Europe website estimates that Swedbank alone facilitated a total of SEK50 billion (or 5.7€ billion) Spanish property sales in 2011 alone, and already it looks as though this trend will continue throughout 2012.

This charming villa located in a well established, leafy part of Nueva Andalucía combines elegance and comfort to great effect. Homely and stylish, it is well proportioned – at 220m2 it offers space and privacy yet is also homely and practical, set within a beautiful garden of 1012m2 at the heart of which is a private swimming pool that borders a spacious, partly covered 62m2 terrace.

Inside are three spacious bedroom suites each with its own bathroom, as well as a guest bathroom in the elegant entrance hall that leads on to an attractive, fully fitted kitchen, a sunny dining areas that overlooks the terrace and garden, and a cosy living room with fireplace and vaulted wood-beamed ceiling. Situated in Las Cascadas del Golf, near the Los Naranjos Golf Club, the property is close to the amenities of Nueva Andalucía, Puerto Banús and central Marbella.

At a glance:

Villa
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3
Guest bathrooms: 1
Plot: 1,012m2
Built: 220m2
Terrace: 62m2
Built year: 1992

Sales price: 875,000€

For more photos and information about this beautiful property visit our website.

Nordica Sales & Rentals – at home in Nueva Andalucía

Established in the area for over 25 years, Nordica is one of those companies that form the backbone of Marbella’s real estate business. While others came and went during good and bad times, Nordica remained a constant presence dedicated both to its trade and the area it is in, building up a name for good service and unrivalled expertise in its specialist area, Nueva Andalucía.

An example of a successful family business, Nordica is run by Peter and Anna-Lena Rosén, whose personal and professional dedication to Marbella is the company’s foundation. “For us this has always been a home, the place where we work, live and raise children, so our commitment to Marbella is not of a passing nature but permanent,” says Anna-Lena. As a result, their long-term reputation is dear to them.

Experts in Nueva Andalucia and Marbella property
With specialist divisions focusing on sales and both short and long-term rentals, Nordica has become known as the expert in the greater Nueva Andalucía area, offering a wide range of properties in its best locations. “We know this area inside out, so we can afford to be selective when it comes to the real estate we present to our clients.” Above all, however, they are proud of a service that is efficient but also friendly.

We never wanted to be the biggest, but we do want to be able to provide an effective, efficient and friendly service. The worst thing is not to be able to look a former client in the eye, the best thing is when they become friends and tell everyone how good you are.” It is the kind of word of mouth that is particularly effective amongst Scandinavians, their home market, but also applies to many other nationalities that rent and buy through Nordica.

Like any service industry it is hard work to ensure people are always satisfied, but we look after them so well that a lot of newly-arrived renters then instruct us to find them a property to buy.” It is a happy state of affairs built on many years of experience and an infrastructure that includes dedicated sales, rentals and maintenance teams headed by a great husband and wife partnership.

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The four days of exciting golf culminated on Sunday 18th March with 31 year old Julien Quesne taking his first European Tour title and the winner’s prize of €166.660. Frenchman Quesne, ranked only 322nd in the world, matched the Aloha Golf course record hitting a 64 (eight under par) on the last day of play and became the 400th player to win a title on the European Tour.

Quesne finished the tournament with a total of 271, a fantastic 17 under par. Behind him, Matteo Manassero, the young Italian player, completed the fourth day of play at Aloha Golf just two strokes behind. Spaniard Eduardo De La Riva, who had been the Saturday overnight leader, came in third.

The Andalucía Open was first introduced to the European Tour in 2007, although courses in Andalucía had played host to the Turespaña event in previous years. Hosting the tournament for the third time, Aloha Golf was as popular as ever with the 156 players. Local favourite, 48 year old Miguel Ángel Jiménez from Málaga, had hoped to become the oldest tour winner ever in front of his home crowd but finished in 7th position.

Aloha Golf is located right in the heart of Marbella’s Nueva Andalucía, also known as the Golf Valley. Just one of a cluster of golf courses dominating the area, Aloha Golf Club was founded in 1975 around an 18-hole course designed by Javier Arana. The course is well known for its attractive wooded areas and hazardous streams, lakes and narrow fairways.

Aloha Golf is a truly international membership club and comprises members originating from more than 20 different countries around the world. Its beautiful clubhouse has a large terrace overlooking the course, elegant salons for relaxing with friends and catching up with the golf press, sauna, swimming pool, restaurant, dressing rooms and pro shop as well as a putting green and driving range outside. The restaurant is open to the public and Aloha Golf welcomes visitors from other clubs to join them in competitions and tournaments most weeks of the year.

The Nordica Sales & Rentals office itself is less that a kilometre from Aloha Golf. Below are just a few of the outstanding properties that we have to offer in the area:

Rentals in Peñablanca close to Aloha Golf

Sales in Peñablanca close to Aloha Golf

Front line Aloha Golf villa with stunning views over the golf course

The attractive design makes the most of the Marbella lifestyle and climate, allowing the outdoors to come in and brighten up the living spaces. From the large and imposing living and dining areas it is clear that this is a home of distinction, complete with a gorgeous modern-rustic kitchen, stylish terraced lounge, dining and bar areas, and a master suite bathroom with sauna, Jacuzzi and step-in shower.

The property further includes a fully equipped home cinema and wine cellar, along with tasteful architectural detailing and a full set of modern comforts such as under floor heating and air conditioning throughout. Set within one of the most desirable areas in Marbella, it is a villa of rare quality and appeal.

At a glance:

Villa
Bedrooms: 6
Bathrooms: 6
Guest bathrooms: 1
Plot: 4,067m2
Built: 888m2
Terrace: 80m2
Built year: 2000

Sales price: 3,800,000€

For more photos and information about this stunning villa vist our website.

Featuring a large panoramic terrace, lovely marble floors and architectural details such as elegant arches, this is a spacious and luxurious home designed for sophisticated tastes. The 178m2 penthouse features three large bedrooms, two luxurious bathrooms, a 175m2 terrace, private underground parking and security – as well as a very central and convenient location in Nueva Andalucía.

At a glance:

Penthouse
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2
Guest bathrooms: 1
Built: 178m2
Terrace: 175m2
Built year: 2000

Sales price: 725,000€

To view more photos and information about this stunning villa visit our website.

Where
One of the great attractions of Sierra Blanca is the fact that it is so central – right above Marbella and just minutes from its beaches, shops, restaurants, café society and professional services, and just a few minutes more to those of Puerto Banús. You might say that here you are at the heart of it all without having to forsake your own peace and privacy.

The setting
Although more a luxurious suburban area than an urbanisation as such, Sierra Blanca does enjoy gated security and privacy, and while no golf course runs through the area as it does in so many other parts of Marbella, there is no shortage of clubs on your doorstep. Also nearby are tennis and racket clubs, beauty centres and health retreats such as the internationally renowned Büchinger Clinic.

The lifestyle
As one of the most iconic luxury zones of Marbella, Sierra Blanca is particularly noted for its grand villas set on large acreages and quite typically including their own private spas, home cinemas and guest cottages. Ensconced amongst such mansions are highly exclusive apartment complexes that combine ultimate luxury with convenience of use and maintenance.

For a selection of properties in Sierra Blanca visit our website.

Where
One of the most exclusive golf and country club environments in Europe, La Zagaleta occupies an entire section of the foothills of the Sierra Bermeja between the village of Benahavis and the road that inland to the country town of Ronda. Situated a short distance from the lively town of San Pedro Alcántara, it is the last of a series of luxurious hillside residential areas before you enter a protected natural zone in the mountainous foothills.

The setting
In spite of its security, privacy and seclusion, La Zagaleta is just a few minutes removed from San Pedro, and no more than 15 minutes from Puerto Banús and downtown Marbella. Although surrounded by a range of first-class golf courses, the urbanisation has two beautifully scenic courses of its own, as well as an elegant clubhouse, an equestrian centre, tennis club and large open tracts of nature with hiking trails where you may spot pheasant and deer.

The lifestyle
Plot sizes at La Zagaleta are large and properties can be classed in the top end of the market, all enjoying spacious private domains and fantastic views of the surrounding countryside and the coastline. People who own in La Zagaleta prize exclusivity, quality and service, but above all privacy and security – using this peaceful haven as a base from which to enjoy the shops, restaurants and nightlife of Marbella and its surroundings.

However, Nueva Andalucía is an especially central location and this is never more apparent than on Saturday mornings, when the popular Saturday rastro – or flea market – rolls into town. For more than three decades this colourful collection of stalls, located close to the Puerto Banús Plaza de Toros (bullring), has been attracting crowds of people from all parts of the Costa del Sol.

While the municipal markets that are held on a different day of the week in towns along the coast sell items like wonderful fresh fruit and vegetables, and affordable everyday clothes, the flea markets are a completely different breed of street market. If you have any interest in arts and crafts, then this is the perfect Saturday morning event for you.

The stallholders have vastly different backgrounds and it is not at all unusual to find Senegalese robes standing shoulder to shoulder with traditional Andalusian ceramics and Moroccan rugs. On a typical Saturday you can buy some quirky handmade jewellery that was made only days ago, before bartering for a genuine antique painting or traditional ornament.

Over the years the fame of this fabulous flea market has attracted celebrities from around the world, not to mention some very knowledgeable antique dealers from as far afield as New York. The stall holders are just as fascinating as the variety of people that visit; many of the Spanish vendors merely represent the latest generation of the family to ply their trade, while others have travelled from many parts of Europe, Africa and Asia.

Even if your knowledge of antiques is less than perfect there is no reason why you cannot try out your bartering skills, since many of the sales people at the rastro will set their prices deliberately high and usually feel quite slighted if the customer is unwilling to put in the effort to secure a better deal!

While the whole of the coast offers enjoyment for all the family every day of the week, those who have chosen Nueva Andalucía as their home would be well advised to stay at home on a Saturday morning to enjoy the bright colours and lively banter that is so typical of the rastro.