The former ‘capital’ of 80s family beach holidays is opening up to the corporate event market. Long gone are the rows of concrete balconies towering over the beach front, many now replaced by fresh, modern properties boasting purpose built event spaces.

While the high summer season still provides a haven for sun-seeking families, the shoulder months often provide fantastic corporate rates.

Melia International’s portfolio of hotels in the area offer real variety in both style and size in order to accommodate all types of corporate events:

Gran Melia Don Pepe

With an eviable location on Marbella’s ‘Golden Mile’ of beaches, this luxury hotel boasts magnificent sea views, sophisticated bars and opulent swimming pools. If you have a VIP to impress (or want to host an intimate drinks reception or dinner) then the Moet Presidential Suite here is perfect – on the top floor of the hotel with incredible views from it’s large terrace with private bar, bali bed and jacuzzi.

Downtown Marbella is a short walk away making it an ideal location for both conferences and incentive travel.

The hotel has 1,710 sq m of adaptable meeting, exhibition and conference space – whether it’s just a small boardroom you need or a conference for 300 with multiple breakouts, you will be easily accommodated here.

Melia Marbella Banus

Just a 5 minute walk from the exclusive Puerto Banus harbour, this hotel is a little piece of paradise, whether you’re planning to party-hard in Banus or relax on a day bed by the pool.

The presidential suite here is also great for small receptions or private dinners but it’s the poolside meeting space that really wowed us – a bright open space for up to 150 delegates, it’s soundproofing and blackout facilities are perfect for confidential meetings with breaks or lunches held on the stunning terrace.

Melia Costa del Sol

Ok, I know Torremolinos doesn’t exactly scream sensible, stylish, corporate destination – but what’s on offer at this hotel might just persuade you otherwise.

The fresh, modern reception area is a world away from the tacky beachside properties you might imagine here. With 540 peaceful rooms currently also undergoing modernisation, the property is well situated (right on the beach, just 10 minutes from Malaga International Airport) for a range of group sizes.

The purpose built congress and convention centre is the part that will swing it for corporate events though – with 850m² of flexible space seating from 25 to 450 delegates plus state of the art audio visual technology built in and excellent rates even in peak season, this could be the perfect place!

Melia La Quinta

Tucked into the beautiful scenery of Marbella’s renowned Golf Valley but still only 45 mins from Malaga airport this little gem has something for everyone.

It is an obvious choice for a golfing incentive; the private golf club onsite has outstanding facilities and service. With an extensive Spa for those not so keen on hitting the green.

Traditional Andalucian style decor with terracotta tiles, makes you feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of Marbella itself. Captivating views of the coastline and lush green landscape will win you over.

Bright open meeting spaces for up to 250 delegates and the opportunity to host a variety of events on the stunning outdoor terraces make it ideal for meetings too.

The resort traditionally closes over the winter period, but can be specially opened (and run privately) for groups of 60 and above – and it won’t cost as much as you think!

And if you do have time for an activity (or two!) there is something for everyone:

Mijas

Almost 450 meters above sea level, this charming ‘blanca’ (white) village is nestled in the hillside with spectacular views of the Costa Del Sol. Incredibly popular with tourists, yet it manages to retain much of the traditional andalucian way of life, with the locals relaxed ‘mañana’ attitude a welcome change from the hectic towns below.

Private activities like flamenco shows, tapas & wine tastings or even donkey / horse and cart rides can be arranged here.

Happy Drive

Fun little electric cars fitted with GPS tablets that provide guided tours of the area – a great way to see the city!

With a small fleet of cars these can easily be hired for groups, with personalised GPS tour options they can also form part of a team building day too.

Puerto Banus

At the end of the ‘Golden Mile’ you can find the world-renowned marina of Puerto Banus. With eccentric and spectacular yachts moored in the marina and swanky Ferraris parked along the designer shop filled streets, Banus has something of a millionaire playboy reputation.

For those without millionaire sized wallets this is still a great place to visit: come in the afternoon to marvel at the boats and enjoy a sophisticated lunch at El Gran Gatsby on the far side of the marina. Venture over here after 9pm to sample the famous nightlife – from Sinatras chic portside bar to the hen-do favourite; Linekers (owned by Gary’s brother) there is something for everyone here.

Background on Melia Hotels:

Meliá Hotels International was founded in 1956 in Palma de Majorca (Spain) and is one of the world’s largest resort hotel chains, as well as Spain’s leading hotel chain in both the business and leisure markets. It currently provides more than 350 hotels in 35 countries on 4 continents under the brands: Meliá, Gran Meliá, Paradisus, ME by Meliá, Innside by Meliá, TRYP by Wyndham, Sol and Club Meliá.