Winter travel is changing. More people are looking for trips that feel restorative rather than rushed, warm rather than wintry, and full of comfort rather than compromise. For many, a luxury winter escape is about stepping into a calmer rhythm, finding space to breathe, and staying somewhere that feels both indulgent and deeply relaxing. Marbella, with its famously mild climate and gentle winter light, is one of the few European destinations that offers exactly that. And The Sanctuary truly makes the experience even better.
Why winter escapes are becoming more luxurious
As travellers increasingly move away from crowded summer holidays, winter is becoming the season of choice for slow, meaningful getaways. People no longer want to trade precious holiday time for grey skies or cold weather if they don’t have to. They’re seeking warmth without long-haul flights, privacy instead of busy resort lobbies, and environments designed for deep rest. Winter trips today are now revolving around wellness, good food, quiet luxury, and experiences – and the destinations that can deliver this blend are becoming highly sought after.
Why Marbella is ideal for a luxury winter escape
Marbella is blessed with over 300 days of sunshine every year, and winter feels more like an extended autumn. Daytime temperatures sit comfortably between 17–20°C (62–68°F), making it warm enough for terrace breakfasts, long walks by the sea, sunbathing by the pool, or wandering through the Old Town without the need for a winter coat.
The town settles into an almost perfect balance during these months: buzzy but not busy, warm but not hot, peaceful yet alive with local culture. Whether it’s exploring the cobbled streets of Marbella’s Old Town, enjoying long lunches at the beach, hiking in the surrounding hills, or playing on world-class golf courses, winter offers a slower, more elegant version of the Costa del Sol.
The Sanctuary: A luxury winter escape made effortless
If Marbella provides the sunshine, The Sanctuary provides the atmosphere – a private estate that’s been specifically designed for comfort, warmth, and complete ease. On bright days, the estate opens beautifully to the outdoors, with bi-fold doors that let light flood through the lounges and wellness areas. When evenings are cooler, the interior becomes a cocoon of soft lighting, serene spa rooms, and calm, inviting spaces.
One of the greatest luxuries of winter at The Sanctuary is the heated indoor pool. Whether you prefer quiet morning laps or a slow, ritualistic unwind at the end of the day, it becomes a sanctuary within a sanctuary. The spa rooms, treatment spaces, and sauna turn winter into an opportunity to switch off completely and focus on wellbeing.
For guests who like to stay active, the estate’s fitness spaces make winter feel energising rather than sleepy. The fully equipped Technogym, the peaceful yoga and meditation studio, and the covered rooftop spinning space offers an inspiring backdrop for movement in all weathers. And for those who want a little extra support, our concierge can arrange personal trainers, yoga teachers, wellness practitioners and much more.
Dining at The Sanctuary is designed to be as flexible as winter itself. On warm afternoons, guests enjoy al-fresco lunches under the pergola; on cooler evenings, the estate transitions naturally into candlelit dinners prepared by a private chef.
Why choosing a villa transforms your winter holiday
Hotels have their charms, but winter is a time when privacy feels like the greatest luxury. At The Sanctuary, the entire 14-bedroom estate is exclusively yours. There are no shared facilities, no unfamiliar faces, no competing for sunbeds or spa time. It’s a quiet, uninterrupted world designed around your group and your needs.
With space for up to 32 guests, the estate is perfect for multi-generational families, groups of friends, annual reunions, corporate winter escapes, or wellness trips. Everyone has their own private en-suite bedroom, while the shared spaces – from lounges to terraces to the indoor spa – bring people together effortlessly.
And because winter is a season for making things easy, our concierge team handles the entire experience. From private chefs and breakfast service to spa therapists, restaurant bookings, airport transfers, yacht charters, or days out – everything can be arranged for you if needed.
A taste of winter at The Sanctuary
A winter day here unfolds gently. Mornings start slow, often with coffee on the terrace as the sunlight softens the hills. Some guests wander into the yoga studio while others head to the indoor pool or gym. Afternoons stretch out lazily in the sunshine, whether spent exploring Marbella’s Old Town, strolling along the promenade, or relaxing by the pool with a book. As the sun sets, the estate fills with a warm glow, and evenings often end with dinners that linger into the night.
FAQ: Planning a Luxury Winter Escape in Marbella
Is Marbella warm in winter?
Yes. Winter days are typically sunny with temperatures around 17–20°C (62–68°F), making it one of Europe’s warmest winter destinations. Though rain can be expected, it’s not often for long periods of time.
Is The Sanctuary suitable for a winter holiday?
The Sanctuary is designed for all seasons, with a heated indoor pool, spa rooms, gym, yoga studio, cosy lounges, and both indoor and outdoor dining areas.
Is Marbella busy in winter?
Marbella enjoys a nice buzz all year round. It’s distinctly quieter than the summer season, but there are enough people around for it to not feel deserted. Winter is ideal for travellers who want warm weather without the crowds.
How many people can stay at The Sanctuary?
The estate accommodates up to 32 guests in 14 private en-suite bedrooms.
Your luxury winter escape begins here
The Sanctuary offers a truly elevated escape for those wanting to experience Marbella in a completely unique and fresh new light.
To begin planning your stay, get in touch with our team and explore our available dates for 2025 and 2026.
