A breath of fresh air in Marbella

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

Driving upwards through the winding mountain road, the sea falling below you and sun bright and warm on your face you are surrounded by fresh, green slopes and birds calling in the distance. As you reach the idyllic pueblo blanco your body starts to relax, turn left and you’re there… Champneys Marbella… Just like the start to a good novel, Champneys Marbella sets the scene perfectly for your spa retreat. Nestled in the foothills of the Parque Natural Sierra de las Nieves, the resort is the perfect place to relax, unwind and absorb the fresh air of the expansive nature reserve.
 
Behind the city of Marbella in Spain’s Andalucía province and in a unique area where mountains meet the sea and the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea the Sierra de las Nieves natural park is rich in flora and fauna. The park has been of interest to botanists across the world throughout history and in 1995 was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Several species of deer, birds of prey including the golden eagle roam the reserve finding shelter in the Mediterranean pine forests.
 
It is these same forests that have attracted the likes of the health and spa brand Champneys who operate 4 award winning resorts in the UK. The combination of location, Mediterranean climate and accessibility lends itself to a luxurious spa resort destination. Unlike the UK resorts it is possible for people to invest into the lifestyle and the brand in Champneys Marbella. William Claridge has bought a penthouse on the resort and is also a regular visitor to Champneys Springs in Leicestershire. He comments, “The first thing I do when I get to Springs is relax for an hour or so then go for a massage, you can’t beat it, well I thought that until I heard about the Champneys Marbella project.I can enjoy the sunshine, relax in the spa or my penthouse and I have the flexibility to use my property when I want.”
 
Fresh air is itself key to wellbeing and good health. Air pollution, mainly from traffic, has been linked to cardiovascular diseases and asthma, of course other factors such as smoking and diet affect these afflictions. This is one of the reasons that Champneys Marbella has a holistic approach to its spa resort utilising the natural resources around it, there will be no cars on the development, owners drive through an underground network to reach their building.
 
Champneys Marbella has been sympathetically designed to fit into its surroundings using the best of ancient Moorish architecture maximising light and the natural resources. Apartment owners at Champneys will enjoy an interior courtyard with running water from the abundant natural spa, further bringing nature into the home to enhance the feeling of wellbeing. Even prior to building the land was cleared and every tree was replanted in the grounds including olive trees, orange, lemon and avocado trees.
 
The resort has been carefully and compassionately planned for the benefit of both the visitors and the surroundings and if you wish to unwind in your own Spanish sanctuary contact Champneys Marbella for more information on 01442 291200 or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.
 
 
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Champneys Marbella Spa Resort:
 
Set within the hills of Marbella’s National park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location over looking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. Apartments and penthouses are available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729 and €1,026,705. For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

Heads, Champneys, Knees and Toes…

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

What is your health worth to you? Enough to buy vitamin supplements each month? Enough to buy a new bike? Or even enough to buy a home on a spa resort? What would seem like an extreme purchase is becoming more common as people opt for a healthy way of life in every way possible.
 
As a nation we have developed an obsession for looking good and feeling great, something that can be achieved in a spectrum of ways from supplements to surgery. I think to myself, ‘Why go through the torment of flaky nails when you can pop down to your local shop and buy a perfect set to glue on?’ The short cuts are endless … There is a point however, when this desire to look good overtakes and dominates the need to fight illness and be truly happy, something which can only be achieved through a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
 
When it comes to that all important balance, spa resorts can offer the guidance needed on nutrition, exercise and de-stressing and of course they offer the opportunity to indulge in pampering treatments. In 2008 the spa industry was estimated to be worth over US$250 billion according to the Global Spa Summit, and when considering the broader industry of beauty, nutrition and fitness this figure reached US$1 trillion a testament to the importance of this sector globally. And in hard economic times the need to combat stress and maintain good health will surely only increase.
 
The opportunities to make spas and health resorts a part of your everyday life are increasing, and we are not simply talking about your 3 times a week fix at the gym! The Champneys Spa Resorts have created a unique proposition for serious health and lifestyle investors; it is possible to buy your own home on a spa resort bringing the spa to your doorstep… literally. The Champneys Marbella resort will be the first of its kind for the resort group and nestled in the foothills of the Costa del Sol coastline in Spain, it will bring that extra richness of sunshine and Mediterranean diet.
 
Owners will have daily spa and fitness suite access, a choice of restaurants on site promoting a balanced diet and nutrition, plus perks such a comprehensive concierge service will help take the strain out of everyday chores. With prices starting at €696,358 for a 2 bedroom apartment, it isn’t a frivolous health purchase, however it is a sound financial investment. Owners have the option to place their property into a Champneys rental pool so when you are not using it you have the possibility to earn an income from your home by renting it to other like minded spa goers.
 
For those people who are looking to turn their life around to gain that all important wellness and health balance, Champneys Marbella could offer the living solution for you.
 
For more information contact 01442 291200 or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.
 
 
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About Champneys Marbella:
 
Set within the hills of Marbella’s National park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location over looking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. Apartments and penthouses are available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729 and €1,026,705. For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

Living it up and down in Marbella

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

Clients´ demands on the exclusive Champneys Resort in Marbella have led to the developer combining apartments together, first and second floor apartments in suitable blocks, to create three bedroom duplex properties complete with terraces, gardens, pool and interior courtyards. Julia Norton, Sales Director Champneys Marbella comments “Because there are so many clients requesting prime properties on the resort, naturally we have adapted the construction in order to satisfy the demand for the larger properties”.

Although, this might appear excessive, possibly unbelievable, considering the current economic climate, one has to remember that Marbella has always been and still is the Mecca for the rich and famous. Regardless of what the rest of the world is doing with its´ finances, the very rich remain relatively unscathed by it all. In fact, despite the economic downturn in Spain, properties in the new Champneys Marbella development have been holding strong and all but 2 of the penthouses have been sold (22 of 24).

The statistics released by property experts Kyero.com show that the average property price in Marbella during the final quarter of last year was 654,000 Euros compared with just 247,000 Euros across the rest of Spain. Marbella´s house prices are on average 164.6% more expensive than the national average and this will come as no surprise to anybody who knows the resort. The stereotype of Marbella being home to the “jet set” is still very prevalent today and the members show no signs of leaving their spiritual home. There is nowhere else in Spain that holds that cosmopolitan feel, not unlike that of Monaco or Portofino, where its residents live an unrivalled lifestyle. For this reason celebs such as Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffith continue to hold it in such high esteem because it offers them everything that they require in terms of leisure, shopping and relaxation.

And for those, who don´t live permanently in Spain, Marbella is still the hot holiday destination, in every sense of the word. In fact, last year according to the Office of National Statistics Spain received almost twice the number of visitors than France with 12,029,325 compared to just 7,581,688. A large proportion of the twelve thousand head loyally back to Marbella every year where they are guaranteed the essential holiday ingredients that they have come to expect over the years. Life carries on as normal in Marbella with those clients who can afford to opt for the ultimate in top end living and Champneys Resort in Marbella enables them to do just that. For more information contact Champneys Marbella on +44 (0)1442 291200 or visit

www.champneysmarbella.com.

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About Champneys Marbella Spa Resort: Set within the hills of Marbella’s National park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location overlooking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus.
Duplex properties combining first and second floor apartments in suitable blocks (5, 7 and 12) with 3 bedrooms are available from 1.6 million Euros. Apartments and penthouses are also available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729 and €1,026,705. For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

Construction commences at Champneys Marbella

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

In the hills of the national park, above the prestigious resort of Marbella in Spain and with views down towards the sparkling sea, a dream is becoming a reality. The 1st March 2009 will see construction commence on the site of the new Champneys Marbella spa development, the first resort from the quintessentially English spa brand to be located outside of the UK, making this an exciting time for patrons and investors alike.

Not only will this be the first overseas project for Champneys, Champneys Marbella is also set to be the first resort where property can be purchased and it is a tribute to the popularity of the brand that interest in the new development has been so high and that there has been such demand for investment in the resort.
To date, the volume and pace of sales has far outweighed expectations especially in the current climate, and with the popularity of spas growing each year, a great number of people have already come to recognise the value – both as a unique investment opportunity and for use as a holiday home – of investing in Champneys Marbella.
Both apartments and penthouses are available, both of which are two bedroom, although supply of the most exclusive properties are now limited as demand has proved extremely high. All properties are finished to the highest of standards, with beautiful interior gardens, stunning courtyards with peaceful Moorish fountains, marble bathrooms and fully fitted kitchens. Penthouses boast added features that include lifts to both floors, double height ceilings and stunning galleried second bedrooms as well as a private plunge pool.
Not only has the project proved popular due to the promise of the very best facilities and treatments that Champneys has become synonymous with, another reason that Champneys Marbella is drawing interest is due to the Champneys Rental Pool. This is an option whereby should owners choose, they can rent out their property through a Champneys-managed scheme which gives them complete freedom over when they use the property and when they choose to rent it out. With predicted occupancy levels of 65% as well as the strength of the brand adding much to the scheme, the Rental Pool is a great draw to those looking to invest.

With apartments priced from €696,358 and penthouses from €971,729, and construction on the site starting very soon, now is the time to invest in the resort while there is still availability. For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

Beautiful moreish Moorish architecture

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

When one culture mixes with another, what lasts is often what works. In Britain it was Roman roads and baths. In Spain it was, and remains, the architectural heritage and style of the Moors. First introduced from North West Africa 1,300 years ago, the beautiful and striking essence of Moorish architecture remains and continues to be a template for property builders and developers in the area.

 

Their presence may have disappeared 500 years ago, but their Islamic architectural influence very much remains in the character and heritage of areas like Granada, often termed the ‘Moorish jewel’. The best surviving historical examples of it dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries are La Mezquita, the Roman Catholic Cathedral and former Mosque in Cordoba, and the Alhambra Palace in Granada.

 

The Moorish style features more than just horseshoe arches and intertwining patterns. Elaborate decoration, intricate mosaic work and ornate ceiling carvings also play their part, as do the regal surroundings. This is most notably characterised by the presence of an interior courtyard or ‘riad’, which has its origins in Morocco and other parts of the Islamic world in the Middle East.

 

Also at the heart of any Moorish building is the use of nature and light. Many Moorish features emanate from the desert-like conditions found in parts of North West Africa, on the edge of the Sahara. The use of water is central and hugely important to the Moorish style. Every part, be it a room, a courtyard or a garden, utilises water. Indeed, interior courtyards typically feature a spring of running water from nearby mountains. Fountains, reflecting pools and tiny canals that run through floors combine aesthetics with cool refreshment from the year round weather.

 

As important as the use of water is the use of light. Depending on the property and the room or courtyard, the light may be full, filtered, reflected, or made to create elaborate designs across floors according to taste. Double height ceilings are also typical, ensuring the retention of the Mediterranean light well into the evening. Both the use of water and light, introduced over 1000 years ago, were considered highly sophisticated at the time compared to existing practices throughout Europe.

 

Architectural history continues to have a direct link to the present and the future. This can easily be seen in the work of architects such as Francisco Pastor Gil and Alfonso Bermejo Oroz, responsible for the Champneys Marbella development. Their work on a Museum building at the historic Alhambra Palace, which is protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, mirrors many of their property developments and their award winning pursuit of the Moorish style in a modern context. Their projects have been published in prestigious publications in Spain and throughout Europe.

 

Apartments and penthouses in the style are available in exclusive luxury resorts within the hills of Marbella’s National park at Champneys Marbella. This development boasts Moorish architectural features in an idyllic location overlooking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. The continued success of the Champneys Marbella development despite global financial pressures is no surprise, says Sales Director Julia Norton. “The reason why we’ve managed to buck any downward trends is because buyers recognise the innate attractiveness of the apartments and penthouses themselves, as well as the resort. Their beautiful, striking interiors and palatial, peaceful surroundings melt the heart of the most hardened individual. The whole development combines the best of the Champneys spa lifestyle with the stunning climate of the Mediterranean.”

 

Prices start from €696,358 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729 and €1,026,705. Also available are 3 bedroom 3 bathroom vast duplex suites with private pool, two parking spaces and two store rooms at €1,700,000.

For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

Men Seek Me Time At The Spa

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

Based on an outdated stereotype, when you think of the spa, a retro image of the exhausted housewife or burnt out career women recharging their batteries with a massage or a manicure springs to mind. Today, that couldn´t be further from the reality of spa clientèle. Spas are no longer the reserve of ladies who lunch, then relax in a haven of lavender scented, pink chintz. In fact, in today´s spa emphasis is actually placed on creating a neutral gendered environment so that their market encompasses both men and women alike.

The overall perception of spas has changed enormously in society over the past few years. They used to be considered a place where you would go with the objective of coming out with an improved appearance. However they are no longer seen in such a superficial light nor as an indulgent experience but an essential part of dealing with wear and tear on the body when modern day to day living takes its toll. And as far as the word pampering is concerned that just isn´t enough anymore as according to their survey results,

International Spa Association (ISPA) President Lynne Walker McNees cites that “People continue to expect more from their spa visits than simply being pampered. They want results. More than 1 in 10 spa-goers treat spa-going as part of a larger health and wellness lifestyle.”

The concept of men hanging out at the spa is not an entirely new phenomenon. Champneys’ four UK resorts have been host to some of the biggest sporting household names for years such as Frank Bruno and the late George Best. Men, too, want to age well and live longer so they appreciate the importance of taking care of themselves in order to perform in areas of their life where vitality is needed.

 
Frank Bruno, the British boxing icon and a regular visitor to Champneys, comments, “Champneys is my best kept secret. As soon as you reach the driveway you know that you are entering paradise, I can spend up to 6 hours of a day relaxing and enjoying the first class facilities on offer; you are treated as an individual and the staff make sure that all your needs are met.”
But it´s not just sport stars who are in need of a little TLC, the effects of working long hours such as poor blood circulation from sitting at a computer all day or discomfort in the fingers and hands from excessive texting are just a couple of the reasons why men are heading for the spas for the specific tailored treatments that are on offer.
Julia Norton, Sales Director, Champneys Marbella comments “Our treatments tailored for men are extremely popular in the UK and we are sure that they will be just as popular in Marbella, if not more, given that a significant number of our clients will be golfers in this area”.  Champneys range of men´s treatments include an Elemis IQ facial which is described as the ultimate overhaul for skin, perfect for those who spend a lot of time in an air conditioned office. The list of treatments available is endless from deep tissue massages to Hopi ear candles, a treatment designed to treat ear and sinus conditions that can also relieve stress related headaches. It doesn´t stop at the spa as Champneys boast a range of products for home use too. Any stigma attached to men indulging in what was once thought as women´s treatments has long died out.
Although according to 2007 ISPA Global Consumer Report “women continue to rule as spa goers” it just so happens that Champneys Marbella is located in one of the countries where men account for more than 40% of spa goers. Champneys Marbella is set to be a success in Spain where the outdoor culture and lifestyle lends itself to wellness and taking care of one´s self.  About Champneys Marbella Spa Resort: Set within the hills of Marbella’s National Park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location over looking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. Apartments and penthouses are available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729 and €1,026,705. Also available are 3 bedroom 3 bathroom vast duplex suites with private pool, two parking spaces and two store rooms at €1,700,000.  


For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com. 

Get that festive feeling and celebrate in Marbella

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

Marbella is one of the most popular, best known and best loved resorts on the Costa del Sol. The city boasts fantastic Andalucian weather, a glamorous reputation, luxurious resorts and plenty of festivities throughout the year, particularly around Christmas and New Year.
 
The main reason Marbella continues to be a popular destination for a wide variety of people is because of the numerous attractions the city has to offer. Both the two main beaches, the El Fuerte and El Fontanilla, are very picturesque and have all the modern facilities visitors and locals expect. In addition to the beautiful beaches, parks and walks there are plenty of bars, restaurants, theatres, cinemas and clubs. The thriving nightlife in the city attracts many thousands of visitors every year creating a very vibrant atmosphere.
 
Away from the glamour of the port area is the old quarter and the popular resting place, the Plaza de Los Naranjos (Orange Square), leading off in every direction with a maze of narrow alleys and streets. The old town is also one of the best places to eat, with plenty of authentic tapas bars. There are also shops and street markets with many bargains on offer! Local crafts intermingle with European fashion, cheap leather goods and colourful ceramics. At the other end of the shopping scale there are the designer label clothing stores which Marbella has become known for.
 
Although nowadays, due to increased accessibility especially by budget airlines, visitors from all walks of life visit Marbella its reputation as a glamorous location for the rich and famous holds fast. The then village of Marbella was discovered accidently by a member of the Spanish aristocracy in the 1940s. His investment in the area and extended connections led to more and more visits from members of Europe’s ruling elites. The village of fewer than 1,000 people gradually evolved to become a stylish and luxurious coastal resort with a city of more than 100,000 people. Today, Marbella attracts millions of tourists every year, with many Britons deciding to move and live there permanently. Many Spanish and other celebrities still visit there, with recent residents having included Antonio Banderas, Melanie Griffith, Joan Collins and Sean Connery!
 
The glamour, weather and other attractions on offer aren’t all. Marbella is also a fantastic place for celebrations, particularly at the beginning and end of the year! There are many events and festivals celebrating food, film, fishing and more, including summer bull fights and horse and carriage rides. Christmas Eve is particularly important to Spaniards with the family Christmas Eve meal one of the most important of the year. Although the evening starts in the family home it often ends up with a party in a hotel, club or disco with friends and family members. The second most important day is Los Reyes or Three Kings Day on January 6th, when the three kings play the role Brits normally expect of Father Christmas and leave presents for Spanish children.
 
New Year’s Eve is also big in Spain. It is the tradition on the night to wear red underwear bought by someone else! Street parties with firework displays and entertainment are organised in most towns, with bars and restaurants reserved for private parties. At the stroke of midnight it is the tradition to bring good luck by eating twelve grapes, one on each stroke of the chimes that greet the New Year.
 
Given its enviable reputation it’s easy to see why demand for property in Marbella has been and remains high with house prices remaining stable in 2008. Julia Norton, Sales Director at Champneys Marbella, comments:
 
“There’s no doubt that Marbella still retains something of the exotic about it that proves a huge draw to those from other parts of Europe and the world. This remains particularly true with Britons whose love affair with the Costa del Sol persists, with continued high numbers deciding to move here permanently.
 
“The average price of housing in Marbella is over 28% higher than this time last year (Q4 2008 compared to Q4 2007 according to www.kyero.com), which is remarkable when one considers the current financial climate. And with property in Marbella is 166% more expensive than the Spanish average, this clearly demonstrates the continued strength of the top end of the market.”
 
 
About Champneys Marbella Spa Resort
 
Set within the hills of Marbella’s National park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location over looking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. Apartments and penthouses are available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358 for 2 bedroom apartments There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729 and €1,026,705. Also available are 3 bedroom 3 bathroom vast duplex suites with private pool, two parking spaces and two store rooms at €1,700,000.
 
 
For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

Swapping British stresses for Spanish Spas

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

With over half a million Britons each year saying their work-related stress makes them feel ill, it is no wonder an increasing number are exchanging the costs of British life with the Costa del Sol. After Australia, the most popular destination for Britons is the peaceful, sunny Spain with its fresh food, pleasant seas and relaxing spas. With an estimated two million people suffering from what is recognised by doctors as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or ‘winter blues’, it is no surprise 750,000 people left Britain last year to experience the more tranquil Spanish lifestyle.

One of the best documented ways to counteract stress is the use of modern day spas and their prevalence in Spanish tourist areas and coastal resorts is seen as a major factor responsible for their attractiveness to outsiders. Spas, water treatments and hydrotherapy were once considered the preserve of the rich, but an increasing number of northern Europeans are now enjoying the sorts of relaxing health benefits they bring. Champneys, who are developing a spa apartment and penthouse resort in southern Spain, have made water treatment and hydrotherapy a major feature of their project. Tony Roberts, Sales Director of Champneys Marbella said:
“Spas are a great way of relaxing people and alleviating stress as well as providing proven treatments to those with arthritis and muscle pains. That’s why the focus of the Champneys Marbella site is the main Spa Building and Plaza. Studies of rival treatments for muscle and joint pain have concluded spa and hydrotherapy treatments were most effective, physically as well as emotionally.”
Such treatments soothe muscle pains and increase blood circulation, sending much needed nutrients to specific parts of the body. The muscle relaxation properties of hot water also cure dull muscle pain and helps keep the body free of lactic acid and other metabolic wastes. Hot water also helps the body move toxins into the lymph system and helps supply more oxygen to parts of the body. People with diseases like arthritis or multiple sclerosis, or who suffer from paralysis will appreciate the benefits of a hot spa. The warm water helps ease aches and pains and loosens the joints.
The weather also makes a difference. Studies also show lethargy, anxiety and depression can all be reduced by warmer climates. However this, the emotional well being and the general relaxation associated with the coastal Spanish lifestyle are not the only advantages. Simple things like healthier dietary habits, the cost of living, less pollution and a slower pace of life also have an effect. In addition, mention must be made of the financial benefits and security to be reaped by investing in Spanish property. The high level of immigration and tourism from northern Europe and elsewhere ensures demand for short and long term accommodation remains strong. This is particularly the case in coastal areas where the Spanish Ministry of Tourism predicts more than one million foreigners will move in the next six years.
The Costa del Sol or ‘Costa del Golf’ as it is known by enthusiasts for the number of courses around Marbella has long been a popular destination for British people. As well as the numerous shops, restaurants, bars and clubs there are also many cinemas and casinos. Relaxing parks and beautiful beaches litter the area, as do opportunities to take part in pursuits like water sports, hiking and horse riding. With already 2.8 million legal foreign residents in Spain and falling house and share prices in Britain, investors are already looking towards the Mediterranean. In some areas, Spanish property has appreciated by up to 30 per cent in the last three years. Tony Roberts, Sales Director of Champneys Marbella said:
“Marbella, right in the heart of the Costa del Sol, has something for everyone. Not only can it be vibrant and sporty, it can also be a relaxing, bright and sunny place with a calm atmosphere. In this time of stress and strain, a lot of Britons would appreciate the worth of such a lifestyle and the effects it would have on what is broadly described as ‘wellness’. This, when added to the financial benefits of investment makes migration to the area and its purpose built spa apartment and penthouse resorts easily understood. We wanted our development to epitomise this type of de-stressed lifestyle, hence our investment in luxurious accommodation, elegant surroundings, water therapies, delicious cuisine and the latest fitness trends.”
For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.
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Notes to Editors
Champneys Marbella Spa Resort
Set within the hills of Marbella’s National park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location over looking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. Apartments and penthouses are available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358 / £552,492 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729 / £770,966 and €1,026,705 / £814,622. Also available are 3 bedroom 3 bathroom vast duplex suites with private pool, two parking spaces and two store rooms at €1,700,000 / £1,348,836. For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

Sales of High End Properties in Marbella Defy Current Market Trends in Spain

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

Champneys, the largest destination health spa group in the UK, have defied the credit-crunch by reporting strong sales of properties at their exclusive Spa Resort in Marbella indicating that high-end properties are still in demand despite the current economic slow-down   All but two of their million Euro penthouses at the Spa Resort in Marbella have been sold since March this year, outselling the less expensive apartments.
 
The popularity of the most exclusive properties on their first overseas luxury development is in-line with the current trend of the global super prime property sector that saw a rise in prices of 11% last year according to a report released by Knight Frank in April 2008. They are a niche of investors who are prepared to pay the top prices and are undeterred by whatever may be going on at the lower end of the market. Many high end purchasers are from countries which have triumphed due to the commodities boom and want to invest in second or holiday homes. In a recent report by The Independent newspaper, Knight Frank identifies a similar trend with London property stating that "residential properties valued at £10m or more increased in value, by 2.9 per cent in August alone".
 
Marbella remains one of the most sought after locations for the world´s super rich although due to town planning irregularities there is a shortage of quality new developments in the area. Tony Roberts, Sales Director of Champneys Marbella comments "Marbella is still desirable and despite economic issues, bricks and mortar is still good.”  The added attraction of Champneys is that owners can submit their property to the rental pool for the months that they are not using it and gain a return on their investment. Taking an average occupancy rate of 65% of 323 days of the year; owners could expect excellent returns.
 
In addition, an increase in square metre prices this year makes such property all the more attractive to wealthy investors. In a recent article in the Diario Sur newspaper it was commented that “According to the latest figures, the square metre price has gone up by 1.65 per cent in Marbella during the last year. While most house prices are plunging as a result of the current economic crisis, Marbella has not yet been as badly affected by the situation in the rest of the province of Malaga and for that matter the rest of the country.”
 
The successful sales results for Champneys Marbella Spa Resort reflect the fact that the top end of the market is not as susceptible to market conditions as the mainstream and there is no sign of a decline in demand for these types of properties. William Claridge, a successful businessman from Bedford and avid fan of the Champneys Springs Resort spotted an opportunity to combine sunshine with his passion for spas and has bought in the Marbella resort. He comments “Even though the credit crunch is being heavily documented in the press, those that can afford it are less likely to feel the pinch. And despite the prices already rising in the Champneys development it is still affordable especially as it makes such a good investment.” 
 
About Champneys Marbella Spa Resort: Set within the hills of Marbella’s National park this exclusive development boasts an idyllic location overlooking the coast line of Marbella and Puerto Banus. Apartments and penthouses are available in the exclusive luxury resort combining the Champneys spa lifestyle and stunning climate of the Mediterranean. Prices start from €696,358/ £552,492 for 2 bedroom apartments. There are just two 2 bedroom penthouses available at €971,729/ £770,966 and €1,026,705/ £814,622. Also available are 3 bedroom 3 bathroom vast duplex suites with private pool, two parking spaces and two store rooms at €1,700,000/ £1,348,836.
 
For more information contact 01442 291200, email sales@champneysmarbella.com or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.

Top reasons to invest in a spa resort

by Charlotte Ashton Spain

 

The award winning and highly sought after Champneys Spa Resort group is taking its mix of pampering treatments and luxury services to a new level with the opening of its premier Marbella resort. Spain has been selected as the inaugural overseas location due to its inimitable popularity and accessibility with the British market and with over 300 days of sunshine a year, it brings a new meaning to a hot spa experience! Just a ten minute drive from the millionaire’s playground of Puerto Banus and yet seemingly a world a way from the high paced action of Marbella the resort is a healing oasis of calm for its residents and guests.
The concept is attracting a lot of interest from buyers and the media so just what are the reasons to invest in a spa development?
 
Retreat and revive
Set amongst stunning parkland and beautifully landscaped gardens interwoven with waterways fed by natural running mountain springs, Champneys Marbella is a haven where residents’ peace, health and well being are of paramount importance. With stress related illnesses now affecting around 530,000 individuals in Britain, (according to the Health and Safety Executive) what could be a better place soak away your troubles and soothe your soul? 
 
Eat your way into health
To make the most of a spa development and the lifestyle that it offers owners, healthy living, diet and exercise are of key importance. The Mediterranean way and pace of life has long been known to be beneficial to your health. The mix of reliable sunshine and meals consisting of fresh fish, fresh vegetables and olive oils, make Spain one of the healthiest nations on the planet, and a perfect setting for a new spa resort which will hold maximum appeal for visitors
 
More for your money
Situated in a prime location close to Malaga International Airport, golf courses galore and shopping boutiques for every budget, the resort is sure to be a popular destination for those looking to escape the pressures of the rat race. According to moneysupermarket.com the cost of living in the UK is up by an effective 9.5%, and with (Kyero.com) predicting that the cost of living in Spain is approximately one third less than that of the UK, it’s easy to see why more people are looking to Spain as an alternative. 
 
Not just a girl thing
It’s not just the ladies looking for a spot of spa therapy… According to the International Spa Association, men now make up 29 percent of all spa goers and they aren’t just checking in for sports injuries. Men are waking up to the feel good factors of self indulgent pampering, booking themselves in for seaweed body wraps and cocoa body rubdowns.
 
A feel good property investment
A spa resort is the target for the discerning real estate investor. Gone are the days when a swimming pool or access to a golf course is enough of a draw for property buyers. Investors are looking for added value, opportunity for property rentals and an overall quality purchase. Champneys Marbella not only has the weight of the Champneys brand behind it, the resort has been designed with quality and luxury as a priority. The award winning architects behind the Moorish buildings boast a track record of majestic status having worked on the restoration of Granada’s Al Hambra palace. Each property will be finished with plush interiors and come fully furnished down to the plasma TV screen. Each apartment and penthouse contains a stunning interior courtyard where the sound of running water from ornamental fountains enhances the relaxing atmosphere of these beautifully appointed properties.
 
Relax with your rentals
An undeniable added incentive for potential investors is the rental pool scheme that Champneys Marbella is offering. The Champneys Rental Pool allows you to rent your property to people purchasing spa package holidays with Champneys, in much the same way as visitors use the four UK spa resorts. You are not tied in however; owners have complete freedom over when they want to use their property and when they want to benefit from the rental income. With predicted occupancy levels of 65%, owners should benefit from a healthy return on their investment. *
 
The resort has already been the subject of keen interest. Tony Roberts Sales Director of Champneys Marbella comments, "Our clients trust in our brand and reputation, they know that Champneys is dedicated to providing superior quality in terms of the accommodation and the services available to residents and guests.“
 
For more information contact Champneys Marbella on 01442 291200 or visit www.champneysmarbella.com.
 
 
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Notes to Editor:
 
Property details:
 
Two bedroom apartments are available, which are equipped with state of the art gas fireplaces, marble bathrooms, hot and cold air conditioning and fully fitted kitchens. The apartments are complimented by interior gardens in a stunning courtyard which are finished with peaceful Moorish fountains. Prices start at €696,358/ £550,895. 
 
All owners and guests can expect to receive the first class service associated with the Champneys brand this includes twenty-four hour security, a concierge service assisting with reservations, appointment arranging, buildings insurance, general repairs, garden maintenance, and cleaning apartment communal areas, with further optional services also available.