The Loveliest Villas in Málaga, Spain

Bed & bath: 4 bedrooms, 3 baths
Top amenities: Fireplace, terrace, air conditioning

Now, this is not in Málaga proper, but those willing to head an hour into Andalusia’s glorious olive-flecked mountainsides will be rewarded with a true feeling of sanctuary. This sweet little finca showcases real Spanish design in the loveliest way—all wobbly whitewashed walls, wooden window shutters, and a pretty tiled courtyard with expansive hillside views. Cook up some tapas in the kitchen, or take to the outdoor lounge area, where a barbecue pit awaits for alfresco dinners timed to the sunset. There’s a bedroom with a king bed and another with two singles, so it’s a good choice for families, and kids will love splashing in the pool, too.

Bed & bath: 10 bedrooms, 11 baths
Top amenities: Beach access, landscaped gardens, private spa

One peek through the door at Villa Lagunas and you’ll see that a stay here rivals that at any of Málaga’s best hotels. It’s palatial, with 10 king-size bedrooms, sprawling landscaped gardens, a huge kitchen with peachy marble counters, a home theater, two saunas, a Turkish bath, massage rooms, a home gym, and a Roman spa. Every room has a hot tub, and you can start your day with a brisk swim against the tide in the wave pool. We could go on. Floor-to-ceiling windows, an incredible winding staircase, candy twist marble columns, a mix of classical and modern furniture pieces, and a well-stocked home bar are just a few of the features awaiting exploration in this home. Nonetheless, should you wish to head out, the beach is just a short walk away, and the A7 road is close by, ready to whisk you away into Andalusia’s characteristic vineyards and picturesque sleepy villages.

Bed & bath: 3 bedrooms, 3 baths
Top amenities: Heated pool, fireplace, pet friendly

This villa’s classic Mediterranean architecture has a rustic twist. It’s got all the features you’d expect, including wobbly wooden beams, white walls, and flagstone floors, but certain elements evoke a hunting lodge feel that’s pleasingly surprising. Case in point: a scattering of cowhide furnishings peppered throughout—even a headboard—plus the occasional antelope head object and plenty of works by talented local artists. A covered outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven is the obvious spot for supper after a lazy afternoon swimming laps or reclining poolside with a good book. There are many ways to make the most of your stay, too. Hosts can help you hire private chefs, book beauty treatments, and set up cultural excursions—just say the word.

Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Sauna, gym, air conditioning

Couples seeking a beachy break will love this modern apartment. Take a short stroll from your door and your toes will be in the sand at the Playa de Canuela. It’s small but perfectly formed, with one bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, big terrace, and access to the block’s on-site gym, pools, and sauna—the perfect way to unwind after a tedious plane journey. It’s also a really smart base from which to dig into all of Málaga’s best sights. There’s lots to see within a 15-minute drive, including the George Galindo and classic car museums, several beautiful parks, and the palm tree-lined shores at Playa de la Misericordia, with its excellent chiringuitos slinging ultra-fresh seafood.