In the heat of the summer, two activities probably appeal to most adults with a lust for life: a dip in the sea and a refreshing drink at their favourite outdoor bar (or terraza).
WORDS: MARISA CUTILLAS
Main Image: Besaya Beach ©Kevin Horn
Schweppes recently compiled a list of some of the coolest al fresco spots in Spain, which you should check out if you are planning on travelling nationally in what remains of the summer. The list contains top establishments in Madrid, Levante, the Northeast, North, and South of Spain. Quite a few establishments from Marbella made it into the list. We bring you five of the best, as tried and tested by our team.
Astral Bar in Puerto Banús
This über cool spot is known for its wide array of cocktails, based on four key ingredients: fruits, liquor, natural ingredients, and ice. The talented bar team relies on top local, national, and international brands and imports rum from the Caribbean and the Canary Islands, vodka from Russia, cachaşa from Brazil, tequila de Mexico and an array of waters from pure sources across the globe. The bar is located inside an old wooden ship, adding a bit of pirate-like glamour into the equation.
www.astralmarbella.es
Siroko Beach Marbella
This seafront terrace has both an interior and exterior dining terrace. It boasts high wooden-beamed ceilings and a plethora of wood in its design, adding a touch of nature to your dining experience. It also has a cool Chill-Out area with tables, loungers, and comfy outdoor seating that makes the most of the summer sun. This may be a chiringuito but it is every bit as chic as your favourite gourmet restaurant, with dishes ranging from mouth-watering burrata with tomato tartar to cod ceviche, wild sea bass, and gourmet burgers.
www.sirokobeach.com
Besaya Beach
This pristine white haven of elegance has a comfortable, elegant terrace vibe where white tablecloth and fine crystal make the perfect complement to the fine fresh Mediterranean cuisine that is served. Traditional recipes are married to the avante-garde, and the result is as aesthetically appealing as it is healthy and delicious. International diners will have a wealth of tantalising dishes to tuck into – ranging from a soul-soothing salmon gravlax with crème fraîche to crispy prawns, King crab salad, or Black River Royal Oscietra Caviar.
www.besayabeach.com
La Plage Casanis
A purely organic experience in Elviria is Casanis Group’s latest addition, La Plage. A wonderful setting alongside one of Marbella’s best beaches comes accompanied with mesmerising sea views, with the shoreline curving to meet Gibraltar and North Africa. Add to this a stylishly relaxed chic décor with natural and colonial touches, and the stage is set for a memorable experience by the beach. The trendy beach club offers amazing cocktails, an elaborate wine-list and beautiful food prepared naturally on their famous wood-burning grill.
www.laplagecasanis.com
La Habana Lounge in Puerto Banús
This disco/cocktail/bar is known for its cocktails, party vibe, and good eats. It opens until late on most nights and boasts a menu that will tempt those with a sophisticated palette. The menu is well adapted to the season, so if fish and seafood are on your mind this summer, you will find your match here. Take your pick from pulpo a la gallega (Galician octopus), Bellota ham, red tuna tataki from Almadraba, or seafood croquetas. If artichokes are your thing, then their fried artichokes with ali-oli are a must. Down it with a cool glass of Chardonnay or Penedés, or take your pick from their select list of Spanish and world wines.
www.lahabanalounge.es/en/
There are many more fantastic terraces you can enjoy in the south but if you are planning on visiting a few new places in Spain, check out the full Schweppes list on www.schweppes.es/terrazas-schweppes/mejores-terrazas to ensure your outdoor dining choices always hit the spot.